Principles for delivering transformative co-design methodologies with multiple stakeholders for achieving nature recovery in England

Abstract

Achieving successful multi-stakeholder collaboration for sustainable outcomes is complex. This paper provides key principles for future co-design projects aimed at fostering an inclusive approach to research. These have been developed based on a novel methodology that co-designed the essential components of a long-term, collaborative agreement for a nature recovery scheme in England. Using an assortment of iterative, deliberative participatory methods, this research engaged a wide variety of stakeholders to produce a template agreement for an agri-environmental policy. We demonstrate that a flexible, highly reflective approach resulted in positive engagement with previously marginalised stakeholders. The approach also successfully navigated the unequal power dynamics seen both within and between groups. Finally, multiple feedback loops allowed participants to continually build on previous interactions as they developed and reviewed the agreement. By drawing out the complexities of the co-design process, this paper explains how co-design efforts can produce potentially transformative outputs. We hope that the principles introduced here offer a useful starting point for those planning to undertake multi-stakeholder co-design.