Sustainability continues to become more important to individuals, governments, and communities across the globe. Ecovillages present sustainable community models for a greener future. Here are five ecovillages across the world that are going above and beyond in sustainable achievements.
The Source Farm, Jamaica
Founded by Blondel Shirley-Atwater in 2005, The Farm is an ecologically sound place that, according to her, is made for Jamaicans living abroad to return to if they're seeking a home. Its community teachings and practices revolve around respect for the natural world.
The Source promotes permaculture, natural habitats, organic farming, holistic health, spirituality, and education. Each member of The Source is dedicated to a lifestyle of regeneration in support of a sustainable world rather than environmental damage.
Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage, United States
Located on 280 acres in northeastern Missouri, the Dancing Rabbit adheres to the concepts of environmental stewardship and sustainability. Its community is recognized for sustainable activities such as alternative technology, agriculture, and low-impact home building.
All energy in the Dancing Rabbit is powered by renewable sources, including solar and wind. The community co-owns vehicles, which are all powered by biofuels. The bartering system is often used within the community to create an internal currency.
Sekem Ecovillage, Egypt
Sekem is one of the oldest ecovillages in Africa. Established by Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish back in 1977, people have praised Sekem for its long-term efforts, development, and charitable contributions.
Sekem's strategy entails ethical corporate activities, the preservation of sustainable agriculture techniques, and the promotion of a peaceful society. Natural medicine and textiles are produced on the premises as well. What started out as an agricultural initiative, now houses educational and medicinal buildings. The community practices biodynamic agriculture, offers holistic education to individuals, and fosters ethical workplaces.
Kanchi Eco-Village, India
Kanchi Ecovillage is a sustainable community in India. This village's members devote their lives to living in peace and harmony with nature. There are rental cottages available for older persons, and cottages are built with local materials.
Kanchi generates its electricity locally, and food is grown organically. The village is dedicated to reducing resource usage and recovering the ecology, with the ultimate goal being to safeguard Mother Nature and return more resources back into nature than what is used.
The Farm, United States
The Farm, in Tennessee, adheres to the concepts of environmental stewardship and nonviolence. Its community is recognized for sustainable activities such as alternative technology, natural birth, hunting, creative arts, and healthy cuisine, among others.
Plenty International is also a relief organization linked to this ecovillage. This branch seeks to defend indigenous peoples' rights, land, and culture. Furthermore, The Farm is one of a kind in that it has over 220 community members, and while it is generally open to visitors, this option is unavailable for now.
Key Takeaways
- Ecovillages are creating a new wave of sustainability.
- Each ecovillage has its own, unique structure.
- Sustainability within an ecovillage is seen in how energy is generated, food is grown, and how residents interact with the land and each other.
