With all this talk about reducing CO2, Peak Oil, energy consumption...and the list of things we should feel guilty about continues to grow. I find that there is still too much emphasis on the collective "we".
"We" expect the government to do or not do things and "they" are doing this and that. Don't get me wrong, many things are best done as a group and I like cooperatives and love well managed working bees. Many are excellent initiatives and are leading to positive outcomes. Working shoulder to shoulder with friends and neighbours can have very positive outcomes.
However, I was prompted to write something in response to the expectations that so many people have from governments to be bold in regards to reducing emissions as we move closer to the Copenhagen Climate meetings.
Britain has promised to move into a low carbon economy by 2020. Ted Trainer makes some excellent suggestions how this can be achieved. The bottom line is basically less consumption. But it is not less consumption by the government but by YOU and ME.
It is me (and my family, extended family, clan) who will need to reduce how much we consume. It is you and I who have to drive less, grow our own food, learn to fix shoes and tools and things, improve soils, build structures, run small businesses, organise farmers markets....
As part of the courses run we ask our students to write a letter to themselves where they write down what they will do to be part of the change: I will reduce the length of my shower time, I will start a garden.... We then send these letters to the individuals about 3 months after a course as a reminder because it is the actions of you and me that will create the change WE have to make.
“The simpler way: Working for transition from consumer society to a simpler, more cooperative, just and ecologically sustainable society” can be read at http://ssis.arts.unsw.edu.au/tsw/
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Max Lindegger is a designer of ecological communities and sustainable systems of international repute. He is a respected and sought-after teacher in the disciplines of sustainable systems. His reputation is born of 20 years of hands on experience and leadership in the design and implementation of practical, workable solutions to the challenges of sustainability. Future courses:
Ecovillage Design Education 6 week Intensive –
March 30th—May 8th, 2010
There is a growing and desperate need for more designers with a good grounding and hands-on experience both for paid consultancy and to assist in the voluntary NGO sector. It is for these types of postings that we are aiming the training for in this Ecovillage Design Education Intensive.
Springtime Design and Sustainability Experience
Sept 7th—Oct 2nd, 2010
This four-week course will be held at the Crystal Waters Permaculture Village during the glorious South East Queensland Springtime! The program will incorporate the full Permaculture Design Certificate plus local food production (gardens, orchards, woodlots, small cattle, poultry, beekeeping) new business ideas, food processing, tool maintenance and other farm skills.).
Green directory of eco-friendly Australian businesses. This green directory is providing you all details about environmental companies around Australia. Find the green business around your place.
With all this talk about reducing CO2, Peak Oil, energy consumption...and the list of things we should feel guilty about continues to grow. I find that there is still too much emphasis on the collective "we".
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