advocating for bioregionalism and ecovillages
Localization initiatives in many spheres are underway, from small business networks to local banking and investment, from bioregionalism to the ecovillage movement. Thousands of communities are attempting to lower their carbon footprints by shortening the distances that goods travel, installing decentralized renewable energy systems, and rethinking transportation. In the UK, over ninety communities are now actively part of the Transition Town movement. One of its central thrusts is to rebuild the skills required to develop flourishing, sustainable communities without the waste of materials and energy so characteristic of the global economy. In North America, the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE) is bringing together small businesses to resist the pressures exerted by giant corporate chains. The Global Ecovillage Network links communities that seek to move away from the consumer culture and toward a way of life that supports ecological values. Via Campesina, the largest social movement in the world with over 200 million members, opposes economic globalization and works to support small farmers who produce for themselves and local markets.
