The Global Ecovillage Network (GEN), set up in 1995, is an umbrella organisation working to support the experimental creation and preservation of low impact lifestyles across the globe. GEN consists of a growing network of sustainable communities and ecovillages that bridge different cultures, countries, and continents. Individual supportive members work in multiple sectors, from businesses and NGOs to educational institutions and government. Through valuing and developing localised knowledge and skills, while freely sharing best practices throughout its networks, GEN envisions the emergence of a diverse yet shared global pool of wisdom for sustainable living. GEN works through promoting dialogue and exchange, building solidarity and partnerships across all borders. The philosophy behind GEN is that ‘community’ lies at the heart of all models for sustainability, hence the term ‘ecovillage’.

GEN international has consultative status at the UN-Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) commission, and is a partner of United Nations Institute for Training and Research, UNITAR.GEN works within the framework of the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development 2005-2014.

GEN-International works through three broad regional organisations: the Ecovillage Network of the Americas (ENA), GEN Oceania and Asia (GENOA), and GEN-Europe/ Africa/Middle East.