Positive News US is a free, not for profit newspaper published four times a year in Ithaca, NY. We report on successful projects around the world in the areas of sustainability, social equality, education and happiness, with a clear message that "another world is possible."
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Small Solutions Dissolve Bigger Problems |
By Paul Glover
To enjoy a decent future we'll need to invent it ourselves. While the federal government seems enthusiastic to destroy the environment, impoverish cities, and attack the enemies it creates, local activists build foundations for dynamic, durable change. Rather than merely shaking fists at the powerful, local action takes power from them, then invites them to join the fun.
People who do not like oil wars, oil spills and global warming, for example, are decreasing their personal and community dependence on oil. They rely less on cars by living closer to family, work and friends. They ride bikes and buses, and walk. They install efficient windows and insulation, and switch to alternate fuels. They live simply, but well.
People concerned about water pollution and water depletion catch rainwater and use greywater, install efficient showerheads and waterless toilets, mulch their gardens.
Those distressed at chemical contamination of food, soil, water and air are planting and purchasing food locally from farmer's markets and CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture). They establish community canneries and greenhousing. They recycle and buy recycled goods.
Those repelled by labor exploitation purchase locally-made or Fair Trade goods. Those who want more control of money for ecodevelopment print their own, and invest locally.
Those displeased by the failure of public and private health insurance start their own nonprofit community health systems.
And those discouraged by their city's tall dull walls, by abandoned homes and vacant lots, by street crime and crude punishment, are building neighborhoods that engage the creativity and beauty of residents, who produce more than they consume.
Thousands of organizations and initiatives like these are spreading, rarely seen by major media. Together these efforts set powerful examples for an abundant ecological future. Pirate Ship America has been resisting an ocean of currents. Your help is needed to help it navigate and transform.
To view website links containing "small solutions" go to:
www.ithacahours.com/0304.html
To enjoy a decent future we'll need to invent it ourselves. While the federal government seems enthusiastic to destroy the environment, impoverish cities, and attack the enemies it creates, local activists build foundations for dynamic, durable change. Rather than merely shaking fists at the powerful, local action takes power from them, then invites them to join the fun.
People who do not like oil wars, oil spills and global warming, for example, are decreasing their personal and community dependence on oil. They rely less on cars by living closer to family, work and friends. They ride bikes and buses, and walk. They install efficient windows and insulation, and switch to alternate fuels. They live simply, but well.
People concerned about water pollution and water depletion catch rainwater and use greywater, install efficient showerheads and waterless toilets, mulch their gardens.
Those distressed at chemical contamination of food, soil, water and air are planting and purchasing food locally from farmer's markets and CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture). They establish community canneries and greenhousing. They recycle and buy recycled goods.
Those repelled by labor exploitation purchase locally-made or Fair Trade goods. Those who want more control of money for ecodevelopment print their own, and invest locally.
Those displeased by the failure of public and private health insurance start their own nonprofit community health systems.
And those discouraged by their city's tall dull walls, by abandoned homes and vacant lots, by street crime and crude punishment, are building neighborhoods that engage the creativity and beauty of residents, who produce more than they consume.
Thousands of organizations and initiatives like these are spreading, rarely seen by major media. Together these efforts set powerful examples for an abundant ecological future. Pirate Ship America has been resisting an ocean of currents. Your help is needed to help it navigate and transform.
To view website links containing "small solutions" go to:
www.ithacahours.com/0304.html
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