The Participatory 3Dimensional Modelling (P3DM) is a mapping method based on extracting topographic information (e.g. contour lines) from scaled maps, and then constructing a physical model that is used to locate peoples spatial memory of their land and inhabitants.

P3DM is a planning tool that provides an avenue for the local communities (resource owners) and all other interested stakeholders to come together, discuss development issues, make decisions and develop plans to address and manage the issues concerning the natural resources and the livelihood of the community. It also sets the platform for awareness and transfer of traditional knowledge by the elder population to the younger generation.

The model has unlimited use, it is only the imagination and creativity of the people and its users that’s limiting. Otherwise, it can be applied for many things; infrastructure planning, disaster management planning, health & educational surveys, forest utilization & management planning, population survey, and eco-tourism projects, etc. For this case, PWM use of the models is focused on conservation area mapping and land use management plans.

PWM is the only NGO in PNG and the Pacific that has the specialization in developing P3DM for conservation, community development, disaster risk management, climate change adaptation & management, provincial governement and LLG development and infrastructure plans.