Five principles for practicing critical ecology: reflections on a collective effort to push beyond disciplinary boundaries

Abstract Critical ecology is an evolving mode of inquiry grounded in epistemological pluralism, individual humility, and relational accountability in research. Understanding and practicing critical ecology enables researchers to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and address its challenges – including siloed knowledge production, lack of shared understanding of methods and theories, and tensions between scientific rigor and community engagement. In April 2025, the Regional Critical Ecologies Workshop drew participation from over 60 researchers across various disciplines and fostered engagement with diverse interpretations and applications of ecological research. This article systematizes the Workshop’s discussion by proposing five principles for practicing critical ecology: ongoing learning, reciprocity, reimagining impact, sensitivity to power in knowledge production, and emotional attunement. The article contributes to ongoing collective reflections to ensure that critical ecology is a practice grounded in reflexivity and responsibility.