User:Epbishop/sandbox

There are many different dimensions of Ecovillages that need to examined. For instance, building a positive community is integral to the workings of an Ecovillage. As these groups are quite small, members need to feel empowered, included and comfortable speaking and sharing ideas. As well, cultural and spiritual practices are encouraged - such an an understanding of the interconnectedness of the earth. Ecologically, Ecovillages allow people to be connected to the earth. Members respect their environment as it provides them with the majority of their sustenance. Villages grow the majority of their food organically, use local materials for their buildings, protect biodiversity and growing seasons and protect local water, soil and air. The majority of the practices undertaken by Ecovillages aim to take care of the land. Ecovillages demonstrate a unique economic dimension, as money is kept within the community and is circulated between members. Income is often generated through the retail of their products and services and recycled to improve everyone in the community. 

With the increasing evidence of human-initiated climate change, people throughout the world are coming together to try to reduce their carbon-footprint. Groups are trying to move away from the dependence of fossil fuels and consumerist practices. There is a focus on producing and consuming locally, forging meaningful relationships and living as sustainably as possible. Many initiatives are encouraged such as: reducing energy use, creating sustainable local businesses, localizing farming and creating environmentally minded communities.