Re-localize and diversify!

Over the past century we have become dependent on cheap, abundant, and convenient energy to fuel economic growth. It is likely that we have reached the inevitable decline of cheap oil. Although there is controversy about the date of Peak Oil, there is virtually no doubt or dispute that it will occur, and we are undeniably facing challenges related to energy and climate uncertainty.

Communities across the globe are making decisions to re-localize, joining what has become a worldwide movement to reclaim control over resources and the decisions that most affect the community. Re-localization is, “a strategy to build societies based on the local production of food, energy and goods, and the local development of currency, governance and culture” (Relocalize.net). The main goals of re-localization are to increase energy security, to strengthen local economies, and to dramatically improve environmental conditions and social equity. Re-localization establishes a buffer for communities to deal with the impacts of energy and climate uncertainty on transportation and land use, food and agriculture, jobs, the economy, and public and social services.

Resources:
Post Carbon Institute Relocalization Campaign: http://relocalize.net/
Business Alliance for Local Living Economies: http://www.livingeconomies.org/
Transition Towns Movement: http://www.transitiontowns.org/