Relocalisation - Thinking Globally, Acting Locally

What is "relocalisation"? Basically, relocalisation is a strategy being used to build communities that rely predominantly on local food, renewable energy, transport etc and revolves around sustainable, self-sufficient practices. By using local knowledge, expertise and experience, communities are able to strengthen the local economy, build community resilience to issues such as peak oil and oil price spikes, reduce the effects of climate change, and increase security in energy and food supply.

As our demand for cheap oil continues to increase and oil production supply peaks and declines, it is obvious that there will be shortages and drastic price spikes at best. Needless to say, prices on all of our oil-based products, which are more widespread than most people realise, will increase substantially. Think fuel, diesel, LPG, polyester, antihistamines, synthetic clothing, dentures, shampoo, aspirin, synthetic fertilisers, lipstick, detergents, paint, refrigerants, your computer, even food additives and preservatives. Can you really see yourself just popping down to the shops for some milk when fuel is at $9/l?

Needless to say, we're going to have to get used to living without such a heavy reliance on oil. How smoothly the transition process evolves is completely up to us. By relocalising, we will be killing two birds with one stone, so to speak. All of our basic everyday needs can be secured within the local community, reducing reliance on oil and at the same time, significantly reducing our carbon emissions. Peak oil and climate changed are addressed at the same time.

There have been a number of working models implemented across the world to address both climate change and peak oil. The Transition Network has been developing step by step transition iniatives for groups to implement in their own communities, which include education and training, help with handling opposition, connections with other Transition Towns, and practical projects.

There is so much we can all do, and you can be involved as little or as much as you like. Do you want to be a part of the group spearheading this movement? To get involved or to see if there is a Transition Town near you, jump over to their website here. We hope to see you there.