Mission

The Location Matters Lab aims to critique and inform efforts to protect people, nature, and rights by collaborating with communities to identify action-focused research needs and by training future leaders to use their civic power.

Vision

We envision a world where frontline communities lead the way in creating fair, healthy, and lasting solutions for people and nature, with support from strong partnerships between universities, governments, and communities.

Values

• Respect People and Knowledge: We put people first, honor community wisdom, and share information in ways that are fair and thoughtful.
• Build Trust and Accountability: We stay grounded in what matters to communities, making sure our work is useful, open, and driven by shared goals.
• Commit to Quality and Learning: We uphold high standards while always listening, learning, and improving together.

Active Projects

SeaChange: Coastal Placemaking & Data Democracy

Dive in to the maps and other tools we are making with coastal leaders.

JustWater: Infrastructure that Enhances Resilience

Learn how we are building accountability for resilience, one connection at a time.

Radicle: Cultivating Leaders in Civic Leisure

Find out more about how environmental science, play, and purpose come together.