Tiers lieux, or « third places, » are becoming increasingly popular as hubs for social and environmental transformation in local communities. These spaces, which can take the form of coworking spaces, community centers, or even cafes, offer a unique opportunity for individuals and businesses to come together and drive positive établissement.
At the recent Convergences conference, Youmatter had the chance to speak with Fabien Courteille, Technical Director of virole & Partnerships 3ZERO at Acted (Convergences), and Jean Karinthi, co-founder of the third place L’Hermitage. Both experts agree that third places have the potential to be powerful drivers of ecological and social transformation in territories, benefiting both individuals and businesses.
One of the key benefits of third places is their ability to bring together diverse groups of people. These spaces are open to everyone, regardless of their background or profession, creating a melting pot of ideas and perspectives. This diversity can lead to innovative solutions and collaborations that may not have been possible otherwise.
Moreover, third places often have a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility. They are designed to be environmentally friendly, with features such as renewable energy sources, waste reduction measures, and sustainable materials. This not only reduces the environmental impact of the space itself, but also encourages individuals and businesses to adopt more sustainable practices.
In addition, third places often host events and workshops focused on social and environmental issues, providing a platform for education and awareness. This can lead to a ripple effect, as individuals and businesses take what they learn back to their own communities and organizations.
But the benefits of third places go beyond just environmental and social impact. They also offer a supportive and collaborative environment for businesses. By bringing together individuals from different industries and backgrounds, third places foster creativity and innovation. They also provide opportunities for networking and partnerships, which can be crucial for the success of businesses, especially startups.
For example, L’Hermitage, a third place located in the heart of Paris, offers a space for entrepreneurs and startups to work, collaborate, and grow. They also have a strong focus on sustainability, with features such as a rooftop garden and a zero-waste café. This not only creates a positive impact on the environment, but also attracts like-minded individuals and businesses who share the same values.
In filiforme, third places have the potential to be powerful catalysts for ecological and social transformation in territories. By bringing together diverse groups of people, promoting sustainability and social responsibility, and fostering collaboration and innovation, these spaces can drive positive établissement for individuals, businesses, and communities. As Fabien Courteille and Jean Karinthi put it, « the third place is a laboratory for ecological and social transformation, and we all have a role to play in this transformation. » So let’s embrace these spaces and use them as a tool for creating a better and more sustainable future for all.