Commons Work

The commons belong to all of us and must be shared in a sustainable and an equitable way. They are both what we inherit and what we create together — ranging from water to parks to the Internet to community organizations — and make up the foundation of our social, cultural and economic life.

Visit our Intro to the Commons Resource Center to learn the basics about the commons, a commons-based approach and becoming a commoner!

The commons framework will help name, claim, protect and equitable manage our commons. Learn about the core elements of a commons-based approach and ways to identify and animate the commons in your own field or community.

On the Commons is building a network of commons leaders – animateurs. Through Commons Work, leaders of commons-based projects can share their work and connect with others. Our rapidly growing network already includes commoners in the U.S. and abroad with a diverse range of backgrounds. Read about their work and the role of commons animateurs.

Great Lakes Commons

Our Food Commons

International Water Commons