International Ecovillage Research Institute
Transforming Research for a Nature-Centric World
The International Ecovillage Research Institute (IERI) advances research that explores how face-to-face communities cultivate relational and ecocentric selves and how transnational networks weave these local practices into a global lattice of ecological consciousness.
Bringing together academics, practitioners, and policymakers, IERI builds on a decade of collaborative inquiry through GEN’s Research Circle to make ecovillage knowledge more visible and impactful, bridging research and practice to inspire ecocentric reform in thought, policy, and lived experience.
About IERI
Our Purpose
The International Ecovillage Research Institute (IERI) exists to deepen understanding and strengthen practice in the global movement for regenerative living.
We conduct and support international, interdisciplinary, and community-led research that explores how human settlements can restore ecosystems, mirror natural systems, and honour indigenous and traditional wisdom.
We advance applied and participatory research that empowers communities to design sustainable and resilient ways of life, in areas such as food, water, shelter, energy, governance, and economics.
We offer consultancy, training, and advisory services to governments, organisations, and networks committed to place-based transformation and regenerative development.
And we share insights and inspire action through publications, events, and partnerships that promote public understanding of ecocentric design, social innovation, and climate resilience.
Organisational Structure
Resource Library
The below links come from an Erasmus+ project, ReGEN4All, which was created with the GEN Research group and sets the foundation for the International Research Institute.
Research Code of Conduct
This Code of Conduct (CoC) is designed to facilitate ethical, respectful, and mutually beneficial collaboration between researchers and ecovillagers/community members
ECommunity Library
The Ecommunity Library, developed during the Regen4All project, provides a database of articles, reports and other types of materials on ecovillages and ecovillage-related topics.
Ecovillage Resource Course
This self study course will give you an idea of the breadth of work in the GEN research group and the ecovillage movement as a whole. We highlight the voices of established and experienced ecovillage researchers who share their knowledge and insights in their field of study.
Get Involved
Individual Researcher
Learn, connect, and take action toward a regenerative lifestyle through global ecovillage programs and communities.
Institute
Collaborate on applied research and innovation in sustainable living, community resilience, and regenerative design.
Ecovillage
Join a global network of communities sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices for a just and sustainable future.
Reach out to abbie.caldas@ecovillage.org
Upcoming Opportunites
Advance Your Research with ICSA!
📢 Now accepting papers for 2026!
[2026 CALL FOR PAPERS]
Towards Ecoshophical Neighbourhoods
University of the Sunshine Coast Moreton Bay campus
29 June – 3 July 2026
