PLP Architecture Co-Founder Ron Bakker has been appointed to the newly formed advisory board of the Symbiocene Institute, an international organisation dedicated to accelerating innovations that promote decarbonisation and more symbiotic relationships between people and nature.

Ron leads PLP Labs, the studio’s in-house research and innovation group, where he focuses on redefining models of development and urbanism through cross-disciplinary collaboration. His appointment to the board reflects PLP’s continued commitment to symbiosis-based design strategies, a vision for architecture and urbanism that actively supports ecological systems rather than simply minimising harm.

Appointed by Symbiocene Institute Founder Andy Marks, Ron joins a diverse and inspiring group of leaders and thinkers on the board, including Camille Goldstone-Henry (Xylo Systems), Kate Wilson (Biodiversity, Climate and Sustainability Advisor), Melissa Gilbert (UnitePlayPerform), Brandon Gien (Good Design Australia), and Glenn A. Albrecht, the environmental philosopher who first defined the Symbiocene.

At PLP, this approach informs our ongoing research into biophilic design, nature-positive urbanism and circular construction. Through PLP Labs, we are exploring how the built environment can evolve beyond sustainability into a regenerative, life-centred future.

Learn more about our Symbiocene research here