Resilient Communities Lab

The Resilient Communities Lab (RCL), led by Professor Janelle Knox-Hayes and housed within the Department of Urban Studies & Planning (DUSP), is an interdisciplinary team of MIT faculty, researchers, and students developing resilience solutions. We aim to build a collaborative network connecting academic, government, non-profit, community, and policy groups to ensure equitable sustainability outcomes. Engagement supports frontline communities in formulating resilience strategies to withstand, respond, adapt, and recover from present and future challenges.

We believe that genuine sustainability is built upon equity and justice. Traditional science and engineering strategies often at the center of addressing climate change are not mutually exclusive of the dimensions of humanity they aim to serve. The Resilient Communities Lab uses a humanistic approach to resolve environmental conflicts, aiming to develop holistic solutions for people and the planet. Through academic exploration and community collaboration, we seek to grow cultural understanding, foster respect, and ensure the inclusion of all peoples.

The RCL commits to promoting social justice, respect for diversity, and equity in our work—values essential to creating a world where all communities can thrive.

The RCL is committed to upholding ethical principles in all aspects of its work. This commitment is grounded in a belief that diverse perspectives and experiences are essential to addressing complex global challenges. It adheres to ethical research standards, including informed consent, confidentiality, and privacy, in its community interactions. We recognize the importance of respecting the autonomy of communities, and their right to control their data. We seek community engagement and input at all stages of research and development, with the aim of creating collaborative and meaningful relationships with communities that prioritize their needs and perspectives.

The RCL values transparency, and believes that open communication and accountability are essential to building trust and maintaining ethical practices.