Biodiversity Storytelling
Purpose
To connect personal narratives with ecological and biodiversity-related themes, using storytelling as a tool for reflection, trust-building, and collective learning. This method makes abstract concepts tangible by grounding them in everyday experiences, particularly through food, memory and cultural identity.
Key Features
Participants:
- Ideal group size: 6–8 storytellers
- Plenary discussion can include up to 15 participants
- Suitable for age 11+, adaptable across cultures and contexts
Estimated Timeframe:
- ~2 weeks’ notice for storytellers to prepare
- ~2–3 hours facilitator prep (e.g. factsheets)
- 2-hour workshop, optionally followed by a shared meal
Budget Level:
- Low
- Main costs: facilitator time, refreshments, venue, transport support
Materials Needed:
- Factsheets or information cards on selected fruits/vegetables
- Comfortable indoor or outdoor space (weather permitting)
- Institutionally approved ethical information and consent forms (if collecting data)
- Optional: food samples, illustrated resources, feedback tools
Skills Required:
- Group facilitation and inclusive communication
- Workshop planning and recruitment
- Research and preparation of ecological/cultural facts
- Sensitivity to emotional and cultural dynamics
- Adaptability and ethical awareness
Case Study
Method in Practice
Context of Use
Used in the PLANET4B Austrian case study with a Learning Community of migrant women co-creating a biodiverse urban garden. Participants shared stories about meaningful fruits or vegetables, linking personal memories to biodiversity. The session concluded with a communal meal featuring the foods discussed.
How It Worked
Storytellers prepared personal narratives in advance. During the workshop, stories were shared in small groups, followed by a plenary discussion. Facilitators introduced factsheets to connect stories to nature and culture. The session ended with a shared meal, reinforcing themes of connection and care.
Engagement & Participation
Participants engaged through storytelling, listening and reflection. Facilitators created a safe, inclusive space with co-negotiated group rules. The method encouraged emotional expression, cultural exchange, and mutual respect.
Outcomes & Insights:
- Strengthened trust and group cohesion
- Elevated experiential and cultural knowledge
- Fostered emotional connection to biodiversity
- Inspired follow-up learning and community action
- Reframed who is seen as a knowledge-holder
Strengths & Considerations
Strengths:
- Accessible and low-cost
- Builds trust and empathy
- Connects biodiversity to everyday life
- Validates diverse forms of knowledge
- Adaptable to many formats and audiences
Considerations:
- Sensitive topics may arise (e.g. food insecurity, migration)
- Requires careful facilitation and ethical clarity
- Some participants may prefer non-verbal storytelling formats
- Preparation time needed for factsheets and recruitment
- Group dynamics and emotional safety must be actively supported
