Local Biodiversity Outlooks 2 (LBO2) is a landmark research project presenting the perspectives of indigenous peoples and local communities on the social-ecological crisis. It charts their contributions to the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020.
We partnered with Forest Peoples Programme to realise a 300-page printed report and a multi-lingual web-based adaptation, allowing international readers to enjoy an impactful and accessible reading experience.
Client
Forest Peoples Programme
What we did
Creative direction
Illustration
Icon design
Data-graphics
Website design
Website development
Report design
Print production
Visual research
In addition to the report’s texts, photography is integral to understanding how indigenous peoples and local communities live alongside the environment. We began the project by gathering beautifully relevant editorial images, which inspired our design.
Creating our palette
Diverse ecosystems contain abundant colours, from the verdant rainforests of Cameroon to the earthy tones in the Kalahari Desert. Nature was the perfect starting point for our palette, which we’ve applied throughout the publication to emphasise important content and help the reader navigate sections.
Communicating global targets
The LBO2 report references 20 targets intended to limit biodiversity loss. We had to find a way to communicate them visually.
We began by determining how to illustrate connections between people, land, species, and communities. Simultaneously, we worked toward a system that could facilitate target icon design, reoccur in data graphics, and inform layout and typography. The outcome was a consistent, harmonious, and practical project identity.
Anchors, boxes, dots, and data-graphics
Lines and circles became noteworthy visual devices. They structure the publication’s contents page, frame images, highlight case studies, and represent data.
Circles are colour-coded according to their location in the publication. This technique helps readers to determine their position in the report and relate it to a target and section topic.
Sustainable print
The printed report contains FSC-certified papers throughout. We wrapped the cover in a black dust jacket pressed with white ink, contrasting the vibrant cover photo and rich inner colour palette.
Alongside designing and managing the production of an English-language edition, we typeset and delivered printed Arabic, French, Mandarin, Spanish, and Russian versions.
“Thanks for all the hard work you’ve put in to get us over the line. We’ve had excellent pick-up and great feedback on the website, which looks terrific!”
Tom Dixon
Communication and Media Manager
Forest Peoples Programme
Building a digital reading experience
Forest Peoples Programme wanted LBO2 to reach as many people as possible. We carefully transformed the report’s design into a responsive website. Our contents page-inspired navigation system simulates the physical reading experience.
