Biomaterial and permaculture workshop

The hypothesis

A hands-on, co-creative workshop format that integrates biomaterials, urban permaculture, and open-source design thinking will enhance public engagement, environmental awareness, and collaborative innovation. By allowing participants to physically engage with biomaterials, design tree structures, and contribute permaculture action ideas, the workshop will lead to stronger participant investment in the maker change project and movement.

Co-designed workshop plan between myself, Damian and Daniel. I hired the public makerspace Transfolab for 24th February from 5-7pm, I have already good relationships with the space so it cost just 16 euros for the evening!

Method / How

The workshop began with a welcome and icebreaker introducing the Bio-Tree project and facilitators, followed by a “choose your own adventure” rotation where participants moved through three hands-on sessions: designing tree concepts for 3D printing, exploring permaculture ideas and actions the public could take to benefit nature, and experimenting with biomaterials by mixing and forming biocomposite samples. After a short break, everyone came together for a collaborative co-design session, using open and creative prompts to imagine where the Bio-Trees could be placed, how people might interact with them, what materials and features they should include, and how the project could be open-source and accessible. The session then shifted into grouping and reflecting on ideas to identify key themes and priorities. The workshop concluded with participants sharing feedback, learning about next steps, and being invited to continue contributing to the project, ensuring their ideas would inform future development. 

Why:

The workshop was held to test whether a hands-on, co-creative approach using biomaterials, permaculture, and open-source design could increase public engagement and investment in the Maker Change project. By actively involving participants in making, designing, and sharing ideas within an accessible makerspace, the session aimed to build environmental awareness, collaboration, and a stronger sense of ownership in the project.

Conclusion

Value is exchanged through knowledge-sharing, participatory design, and hands-on environmental action. The project embraces a circular approach by using sustainable, locally sourced materials and promoting community-driven stewardship. Open-source principles ensure that the design can be adapted, replicated, and improved upon by different cities and groups. By fostering collaboration between citizens, local businesses, and institutions, Maker Change builds an inclusive and regenerative model for urban sustainability.