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The Ecovillage Concept
Ecology
The term "sustainability" has enjoyed quite a bit of celebrity since the birth of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development and Agenda 21, at the Rio Conference in 1992; it is often mentioned in public speeches and political programs, in environmental reports and newspapers, but not always with the original definition and intention. This much debated concept has for the ecovillage movement the clear meaning of treating the Earth and all creatures (including humans) with deep respect and with a long-term view on the consequences of our actions.
The concept of "ecology" refers to the use of alternative technologies (like energy saving, renewable sources, water treatment and conservation, natural materials for building and restoring, organic farming methods). But not only: it also applies to a dynamic system of human relations, planning principles, ethical values, spiritual motivations, economic strategies and social interactions which make the ecovillage a highly complex structure in constant evolution.
Ecology means:
Growing food as much as possible within the community bio-region supporting organic food production there Creating homes out of locally adapted materials Using village-based integrated renewable energy systems Protecting biodiversity Fostering ecological business principles Assessing the life cycle of all products used in the ecovillage from a social and spiritual as well as an ecological point of view Preserving clean soil, water and air through proper energy and waste management Protecting nature and safeguarding wilderness areas
Different aspects of the ecovillage concept:
Intro, Cultural, Ecological and Social