The Con Viv Approach
The Con Viv approach is a living systems design methodology developed through years of research and practical work across food systems, agriculture and regional development.
It recognises that thriving food systems emerge from relationships between soil, people, culture, economics and governance.
Rather than focusing on isolated solutions, the approach works with the interconnected nature of living systems and supports communities to design practical pathways for change within their own regions.
The Con Viv approach informs the work of Con Viv Design Studio, the Living Earth College educational programs and policy initiatives such as Grow Small Feed All.
“In a time of ecological and social change, Con Viv is a practice of learning how to design with life.”
Con Viv is a living systems design approach developed through years of practical work across farms, food systems, communities and regional policy. It explores how lasting change can emerge when we understand the relationships between soil, people, culture and place.
The Con Viv approach:
• begins with careful observation of land, soil and local conditions
• works with farmers, communities and local organisations to understand how food systems actually function
• supports the design of local food networks, enterprises and regional infrastructure
• connects practical experience with systems thinking, economics and policy
• identifies opportunities where existing systems have become rigid or disconnected from life, and explores ways to realign resources, investment and governance with living systems
• helps communities identify clear, achievable steps for strengthening their regional food systems
At its heart, Con Viv is about learning to work with living systems rather than against them, by recognising that even where systems appear worn or rigid, there are opportunities to redirect energy, resources and imagination toward life.