Okay, first — it is still conceivable (in theory, anyway) that all the leaders of major governments will get together before it's too late and agree to enact radical degrowth policies.

But, second — a realistic look at the world today makes it clear how totally unlikely that would be. No matter how much we want it, how loudly we yell, or how hard we protest, I just can’t see it happening.

Therefore, third — what should we do?

My answer has always been that the most important steps you can take are personal and local. No, I don’t mean just lowering your carbon footprint, although of course that’s a good idea. I mean beginning to make the big changes now on a local level that are coming to us, sooner or later, whether we like it or not.

We must simplify. At some point, we will be *forced* to simplify our lives due to the eroding conditions around us, so why not start now?

Be an example. Find others who want to change, and join with them. Build a community. Create co-ops, clothing and furniture exchanges, neighborhood gardens, seed libraries, tool libraries, and establish teaching and training sessions.

Develop systems of sharing resources — such as low-carbon transportation, small-scale solar or wind power, engineering know-how, financial assistance, medical expertise, and more.

If we work together, the possibilities are endless.

#Politics #Environment #Climate #ClimateChange #ClimateCrisis #Degrowth