The Ladder of More-than-Human Participation: A Framework for Inclusive Design

The accelerating environmental crises necessitate a shift in design and management, prompting a move beyond anthropocentric frameworks that prioritize human needs and expertise. This article explores more-than-human participation in design, arguing for an approach that recognizes expertise, innovation, and the rights of nonhuman beings. By integrating nonhuman contributions, design collectives can overcome limitations of human-centric governance and foster more just, resilient, and sustainable ways to live. Starting with Sherry Arnstein’s (1969) influential Ladder of Citizen Participation, this article proposes a structured way to understand degrees of more-than-human participation and discusses the implications. Through this approach, design becomes a more-than-human endeavour with a better chance of responding to the needs of all stakeholders within a living Gaian system.