Bioregionalism
The bioregionalism movement is gaining momentum in many Western countries. Bioregionalism is not new - it has been around for millennia, we have a long but distant history of bioregionalism, but in Western countries we have moved away from the concept of bioregion to one of globalisation. We need to return to a bioregional lifestyle if we are to live sustainably.
The term 'bioregionalism' means slightly different things to different people, depending on nuances of the meaning. When we talk of bioregionalism from an organic food production and consumption perspective the emphasis is on creating sustainable foodsheds (a term coined to define geographic areas in much the same way as a watershed defines a specific area). We live in a physical, ecological, historical and cultural area that is unique, even though we are not often consciously aware of it. This area's boundaries are often ridgetops rather than administrative or other arbitrary lines on a map.
In general terms bioregionalism refers to living a rooted life ie being aware of the ecology, economy and culture of the place where you live, and making decisions that support and enhance these aspects. We can do this by doing some or all of the following:
- Purchase locally grown organic food
- Know where your water comes from and use it sparingly
- Bank with banks that invest in the local community
- Shop in locally owned shops rather than large chain retailers
- Purchase products made by companies that are socially and environmentally responsible, and that have outlets close to our home.
- Know, appreciate and support neighbours
- Reduce waste and know where waste goes
- Know the human cultures that occupied your area in the past
- Have a direct involvement in your children's education
- Know how your electricity is produced and use alternative energy sources where possible
- Connect to your food and the people you share meals with - Slow Food