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Making the Case for Society Built Around Local Economies and Self-Provisioning

Sidney Cox

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Published in A Small Farm Future: Making The Case For A Society Built Around Local Economies Self Provisioning Agricultural Diversity And A Shared Earth

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In an era defined by globalization and the dominance of multinational corporations, the concept of local economies and self-provisioning may seem antiquated. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that societies organized around these principles offer a path to greater sustainability, resilience, and well-being.

The Benefits of Local Economies

Reduced Environmental Impact: By sourcing goods and services locally, transportation distances are minimized, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
Increased Economic Resilience: Local economies are less vulnerable to external shocks, such as economic downturns or supply chain disruptions.
Stronger Community Bonds: Local economies foster interactions between community members, building social capital and a sense of place.
Preservation of Local Culture and Traditions: Local economies support small businesses and artisans, who often contribute to the unique character and heritage of a community.

li>Improved Food Security: Local food production systems reduce dependence on distant supply chains and ensure access to fresh and nutritious food.

Self-Provisioning: A Path to Empowerment

Self-provisioning involves meeting one's own basic needs through production or harvesting of resources. This can take various forms, such as growing food, generating renewable energy, or making essential goods.

A Small Farm Future: Making the Case for a Society Built Around Local Economies, Self-Provisioning, Agricultural Diversity and a Shared Earth

by Chris Smaje

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7091 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	300 pages

The benefits of self-provisioning include:

Increased Independence: Self-sufficient individuals are less reliant on external systems or corporations for their livelihood.
Reduced Consumption: By producing their own goods and services, individuals can reduce their material consumption and environmental footprint.
Greater Self-Reliance: Self-provisioning fosters a sense of empowerment and resilience.
Improved Physical and Mental Health: Growing and preparing food, for example, can provide physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Preservation of Traditional Skills: Self-provisioning helps to pass on valuable skills and knowledge to future generations.

Building a Society Around Local Economies and Self-Provisioning

Transitioning to a society built around local economies and self-provisioning requires a multifaceted approach:

Support Local Businesses: Promote and patronize small businesses that source goods and services locally.
Invest in Local Infrastructure: Develop transportation systems, farmers' markets, and other infrastructure that supports local economic activity.
Encourage Education and Skills Training: Provide education and training programs that equip individuals with skills to produce their own goods and provision their homes.
Rethink Zoning Laws: Reform zoning laws to allow for mixed-use development, urban gardens, and small-scale farming within residential areas.
Foster Community Networks: Create social networks and cooperatives that facilitate sharing, bartering, and mutual support among community members.

Embracing local economies and self-provisioning is not a step backward, but a necessary shift towards a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable society. By reducing environmental impact, fostering community bonds, and empowering individuals, these principles offer a path to a future where well-being and prosperity are rooted in local interconnectedness and self-sufficiency.

A Small Farm Future: Making the Case for a Society Built Around Local Economies, Self-Provisioning, Agricultural Diversity and a Shared Earth

by Chris Smaje

4.5 out of 5