#owgf — Public Fediverse posts

Who doesn't want Car Free City Spaces?
#LifeAfterCars #Urbanism #City #Cars #OWGF

Via Geert Kloppenburg - www.geertkloppenburg.nl
#Urbanism #OWGF #SafeStreets

Where does this leave the Mad Max plotline? When everyone is zipping around outback Australia in EVs powered by the sun. #Solar #SolarPunk #Australia #OWGF

Inspiring Stuff
#EcoSocialism #SolarPunk #OWGF #OurChangingClimate
https://nebula.tv/videos/occ-what-will-socialism-look-like/

#OWGF #SolarPunk #SolarDemocracy
https://youtu.be/uAPz172dpQY

Gid vi kunne gøre det sammen foran Christiansborg...
https://mastodon.world/@OWGF/115063450072149914
[email protected] - #Paris has removed the paving from its city hall square and transformed it into an #Urbanforest
#Urbanism #OWGF #SolarPunk #ClimateAction

#Paris has removed the paving from its city hall square and transformed it into an #Urbanforest
#Urbanism #OWGF #SolarPunk #ClimateAction

Bioplhilia and the need to fill our cities with nature.

The one giant living ecosystem we are all part of on planet Earth has given birth to us human beings. Our DNA comes from this ecosystem. Our cell structures, our shapes, and our brains are what they are today because we inherited them from our “Mother Earth.” To be human is to be from planet Earth and its living ecosystem.

Humanity has known this truth for millennia, and many cultures throughout history had some way of expressing it. The Greeks created Gaia, the earth goddess, who symbolises the living spirit of nature and embodies our deep, instinctive connection to the natural world. Australia’s Indigenous peoples believed in Dreamtime, which represents the sacred connection between people, land, and nature—echoing a recognition of humans’ innate bond with the living world. Humans have long known this connection with nature on a spiritual level, and modern science has only amplified that understanding further.

Biophilia

Biophilia, which literally means “love of life” or “love of living systems,” acknowledges how we recognise our connection to nature on an emotional level. Being surrounded by the natural world feels like a mother’s embrace—a deep connection to our heritage and our very essence. This is why, when immersed in nature, we experience a profound affinity with our environment. Biophilia refers to the innate human tendency to seek connections with nature and other living beings. It reflects the inherent bond humans have with the natural world, which positively impacts both our physical and mental health. Biophilia is linked to reduced stress, enhanced cognitive function, and an overall greater sense of well-being.

Our broken connection with nature

It’s clear to see that this connection has been broken. As more and more people move into our industrialised and mechanised cities, a growing number of people experience this broken connection. The noise from our machines, the pollution they create, the giant freeways, speeding cars, hard surfaces, and toxic smells in our cities all disconnect us from that inherent sense of belonging to the environment. All these unnatural elements create tension, unease, and anxiety within us. Perhaps not all the time, and usually to a greater or lesser degree, but that uneasy feeling is there, just beneath the surface. While we distract ourselves with our jobs, gadgets, entertainment and leisure activities, the need for connection with nature always lives below the surface.

Nature connectedness

All over the world, people are noticing this broken connection. People are writing books about Biophilia, [Links] blogging about it, creating academic courses, [Link] and making videos on the subject. [Link] Nature Therapy and Nature Bathing have become business opportunities, with people paying to reconnect with nature. [Link] The theory of Nature Connectedness is now well established and attracting research interest. [Link] As more and more people recognise these broken connections in our cities, the rise of a movement in response should come as no surprise.

Modern day deserts – Loneliness

Our cities have become modern-day deserts to humanity’s Biophilic needs. They can feel completely alien to us, both physically and emotionally. In urban environments, it is often only our shared connection with other people that keeps us feeling grounded and happy. For hundreds of years, our relationships with each other have fulfilled many of our innate “nature-connected” needs—but even that is now breaking down. As we organise ourselves into increasingly disconnected and individual spheres, we are losing that vital human-to-human connection. As more people drive everywhere, that sense of connection fades. As more people move to suburbs—especially those without local parks, town squares, or corner shops where we naturally bump into other people—things only get worse. Is it any wonder that we’re now facing a loneliness epidemic? [Link]

In the Countryside 

While this post is mostly about cities, it would be wrong to think that this disconnection exists only in urban areas. Our countryside has suffered significant ecological degradation. It’s crisscrossed by asphalt roads and divided by fences, with fields ravaged by heavy agricultural machinery, leaving behind vast, artificial monocultures. While we can still find pockets of nature, they are like small islands—similar to parks in our cities. Is it any wonder that farmers commit suicide in such high numbers? Yes, this has much to do with the pressures of modern agriculture, but a disconnect from nature clearly plays a role as well.

I still think of that scene in Trainspotting, the movie, where the protagonists leave their squalid urban surroundings to enjoy a walk in the countryside. When they get there, they find a cold, wind-swept, barren place that in no way feels welcoming. It may be the countryside, but it’s been stripped of almost all life. Our anti-heroes quickly scurry back to their squalid urban life, which they see as the preferable option. I wonder if they had gone to the countryside and been surrounded by lush green forests and spent time sitting under giant trees with the sun on their faces, perhaps the film would have ended a bit differently. [Link]

Both urban and rural environments suffer from invisible toxins permeating the air, soil, and water, disrupting nature’s delicate balance. These pollutants and petrochemicals break fundamental ecological bonds, causing widespread environmental damage. Though their effects remain unseen, these toxins are making our planet and its farmers increasingly ill. [Link] While Biophilia focuses on humanity’s connection to nature, when we damage nature’s internal connections on a large scale, we ultimately harm ourselves as well.

These problems are well known by farmers, yet few are willing to acknowledge them or make the necessary changes. Charles Massey, a Monaro woolgrower, in his book The Reed Warbler, explores the profound connection between humans and nature, emphasising that this bond is essential for our well-being and spiritual health. He argues that the natural world is not just a backdrop for human activity but a living, interconnected system of which we are deeply part of. Massey highlights how reconnecting with nature helps restore a sense of belonging and meaning, countering the alienation many feel in modern, technology-driven society. [Link]

The Wealthy

Wealthy individuals throughout history have leveraged their financial resources and influence to immerse themselves in natural surroundings. This practice spans from the meticulously designed gardens of 18th-century European nobility to the verdant landscapes of affluent suburbs and sprawling country estates. What began as a display of status has evolved into a means of creating personal green sanctuaries amidst our increasingly industrialised urban environments and altered landscapes. In contrast, the poorest people have always been denied access to nature in cities. From the Manchester terraces, of the Industrial Revolution, to the favelas of South America, greenery and nature have consistently been withheld from the urban poor by developers and planners.

With the impacts of climate change worsening, phenomena like the urban heat island effect highlight some of the many other issues that arise from a lack of nature. While many cities are finally beginning to address the issue of limited green space in the poorest neighbourhoods, available resources are nowhere near enough to meet the scale of the problem. Much of the work is still often left to small not-for-profit organisations like North East Trees in LA. [Link]

Creature Comforts

While we do love our connection to nature, we also love the creature comforts that our cities offer. We don’t enjoy being surrounded by nature when we are uncomfortably cold and wet. We appreciate what our homes and cities provide: roofs over our heads, mud-free streets, temperature-controlled environments, running water, access to a myriad of services and more. Nobody wants to give up their creature comforts, but in order to have many of them, we end up destroying nature. Nobody is saying we should all go live in forests—so the question remains: what is the compromise? How can we have more nature in our cities, that we can connect with, especially when “free” space is in such short supply?

Bringing nature back

Our aim should be to restore as much nature as possible to both our cities and the countryside. We need to look at the quickest and easiest ways to do this and get started on those first. For me, the absolute simplest way is by removing a modest 10% of on-street parking and replacing it with native trees and plants. This would absolutely transform our cities. Streets are one of the most important parts of our cities and should be part of our commons that we all have the right to change—within reason and with full consultation.

Yimby Melbourne produced this excellent report, looking at the feasibly and benefits of this approach and even did some costs too. http://trees.yimby.melbourne 

There are many ways we can swap parking for greenery that are quick, reasonably cheap, and would have an immediate effect on our cities. Paris is leading the way on this. Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s plan for removing 70,000 of the city’s 140,000 on-street parking spaces to make Paris greener and more people-friendly is well under way.

Participatory Urbanism.

It’s 2025, and it is long past time that everyone in our cities had the same access to greenery that the wealthiest residents enjoy. Yes, there is a cost to this, but there is an even greater human health cost for those living in nature-deprived spaces. Fortunately, there are ways to achieve greening objectives more quickly, more cheaply, and more easily through participatory urbanism—by inviting people to shape their own streets and giving residents who want to get hands-on a way to do so, as Emma Cutting has done with her Pollinators Corridor project. [Link]

All over the world we are seeing citizen De-paving movements springing up. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depaving] Where local residents go out into the community and looking for opportunities to rip out hard surfaces and replacing them with nature. There are groups all over the world, from Portland to Berlin now doing this. Once the paving has gone they plant trees and bushes and return a little more space back to nature. De-paving also allows for opportunities to bringing back natural hydrological systems that capture stormwater run off. De-paving projects often include Sustainable Urban Stormwater Design. (SuSD) This is an approach to managing rainwater and runoff in urban areas that prioritises environmental sustainability, aiming to mimic natural hydrological processes to reduce pollution, improve water quality, and enhance urban resilience. I wrote about a project like this [HERE]

The Melbourne Regen Network has recently launched its 300,000 Streets initiative, which aims to transform the city’s streets into vibrant, community-centered spaces that promote social interaction, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality. This project seeks to engage residents in shaping their neighbourhoods, addressing issues like walkability and green space to enhance overall liveability. [Link]

Wrapping up…

Biophilia is something that exists in all of us to a greater or lesser degree. Though we may block it out with endless distractions, it’s always there in the background. For many people, this need for connection with nature—and with others—is much more pronounced, much clearer and more obvious. For some, the disconnection from nature contributes to a general feeling of unease, a background anxiety they just can’t quite put their finger on.

As our cities and countryside have become more industrialised and mechanised, the backlash against our disconnection with nature has grown stronger and stronger. We are now at a point where thousands of movements around the world recognise Biophilia and are actively seeking to do something about it. This is very much part of what I see as the Re-Growth Revolution. [Link] And this author, for one, thinks this is bloody marvellous!

#Biodiversity #Biophilia #climateChange #Environment #nature #OWGF #Regeneration #SolarPunk #StrongTowns #sustainability #Urbanism

Is this a template for the Solar Punk City of the future?

We should all be deeply skeptical about anyone promising to create a perfect city or society. A lot has been written about how it is not desirable, or even possible, to create a “Utopia,” where everyone lives in harmony. Erik Olin Wright, the prominent sociologist, extensively discussed the concept of “real utopias” in his influential book Envisioning Real Utopias, where he outlines the potential dangers of idealism over practicality. Real Utopias dismisses the idea of perfect societies and instead advocates for practical, achievable alternatives rooted in existing social practices. His work serves both as a critique of capitalism and as a guide for envisioning a more equitable future. [Envisioning Real Utopias]

The word Utopia literally translates as “no place”, coming from the Greek: οὐ (“not”) and τόπος (“place”), and refers to any non-existent society. So it makes sense to look at Utopias as inspirational ideas and principles and not some perfect city or society that we are trying to create. A Utopia can therefore be seen as a set of ideas, principles, and goals aimed at improving people’s quality of life, without expecting perfection—this is the essence of SolarPunk.

When it comes to applying the right principles and goals, Gelephu Mindfulness City, a new city being built in the Kingdom of Bhutan, has a lot of good ideas. Gelephu Mindfulness City, announced in December 2023 by Bhutan’s King, is a 2,500 km² Special Administrative Region designed to integrate Gross National Happiness (GNH) principles with sustainable urban planning. The project aims to house over one million residents across eco-friendly infrastructure and diverse economic clusters, and is being built on these six principles.

1. Mindfulness and Well-being at the Core

At its heart, GMC is designed to cultivate mindfulness—an awareness of the present moment, both individually and collectively. This principle extends beyond meditation or spiritual practices into urban planning, community design, and daily life. Public spaces and neighbourhoods are created to encourage social interaction, reflection, and connection to nature, supporting mental and emotional well-being.

2. Integration of Tradition and Modernity

Rather than replicating a generic modern city, GMC is deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture, spirituality, and values. The city’s design is inspired by the sacred Mandala geometry, symbolising harmony and balance. This approach ensures that while embracing innovation and technology, the city preserves and honors Bhutan’s rich Buddhist heritage and cultural identity.

3. Environmental Sustainability

Gelephu Mindfulness City places ecological stewardship at the forefront. It aims to be carbon-neutral by leveraging renewable energy sources such as hydropower and incorporating green building materials like bamboo and timber. The city integrates natural landscapes, including paddy fields and river corridors, which act as biodiversity sanctuaries and natural stormwater management systems.

4. Economic Diversity and Resilience

The city is planned to foster seven economic clusters, including spirituality, health and wellness, education, green technology, finance, agriculture, and aviation. This diversification promotes economic stability, job creation, and innovation, supporting Bhutan’s broader development goals while attracting international investment.

5. Community-Centered Urban Design

GMC’s unique “ribbon” layout connects neighborhoods with inhabitable bridges, creating micro-communities linked by shared amenities. This fosters a strong sense of belonging and encourages interaction among residents. Public spaces are designed to be interactive and inclusive, supporting cultural exchange and lifelong learning.

6. Holistic Healthcare

The city envisions integrating Eastern and Western medicine to provide holistic healthcare. Facilities will focus not only on physical health but also on mental and spiritual well-being, reflecting Bhutan’s comprehensive approach to health.

If every city and local government in the world considered at least some of those principles in their decision making, our cities would be much nicer places to live in. Ideas like Community-Centered Urban Design are not too different from what 15-Minute Cities are trying to achieve. Retrofitting our cities so that we all have access to shops and amenities, that fulfill our basic needs, within our local communities.

“Gelephu Mindfulness City layout connects neighborhoods with inhabitable bridges, creating micro-communities linked by shared amenities. This fosters a strong sense of belonging and encourages interaction among residents. Public spaces are designed to be interactive and inclusive, supporting cultural exchange and lifelong learning.”

What is potentially an issue with Gelephu Mindfulness City is the fact it has been initiated by a King, and therefore it is hard to know how much the people of Bhutan were consulted. Gross National Happiness, the renowned economic model from Bhutan, was developed with significant input from the Bhutanese people and reflects a deeply rooted cultural and philosophical foundation rather than being a purely top-down concept. So hopefully this was the same. Ultimately, projects that deeply and genuinely consult the people who inhabit a space or will inhabit a space have a much better chance of being a success.

As a project that signposts to a Wonderful Green Future, I do think this is noteworthy. And certainly, a lot better than most other new cities that are being developed. (Telosa – America’s $400 Billion Dystopia) I look forward to watching this project progress, and hopefully, it’s a success and inspires cities everywhere to try some of its ideas. While this project may be more HydroPunk than SolarPunk, 😏 there are a lot of ideas in it that will appeal to fans of the genre.

To find out more about those principles and other information, check out the official website here: www.gmc.bt. There are lots of really interesting ideas in the project, including a temple built into a hydroelectric dam.

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGF

www.owgf.org

#Architecture #climateChange #OWGF #SolarPunk #StrongTowns #sustainability #Urbanism

Here Comes the Sun by, Bill McKibben

Bill McKibben has a new book coming out on the 19th of August, 2025, called Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization

It tells the story of the sudden spike in power from the sun and wind―and the desperate fight of the fossil fuel industry and their politicians to hold this new power at bay. From the everyday citizens who installed solar panels equal to a third of Pakistan’s electric grid, in a year, to the world’s sixth-largest economy―California―nearly halving its use of natural gas in the last two years, Bill McKibben traces the arrival of plentiful, inexpensive solar energy. And he shows how solar power is more than just a path out of the climate crisis: it is a chance to reorder the world on saner and more humane grounds.

I have pulled together a number of the most inspiring quotes from Bill’s book, that were recently published in The New Yorker. 

“People are now putting up a gigawatt’s worth of solar panels, the rough equivalent of the power generated by one coal-fired plant, every fifteen hours. Solar power is now growing faster than any power source in history, and it is closely followed by wind power—which is really another form of energy from the sun, since it is differential heating of the earth that produces the wind that turns the turbines.”

“Last year, ninety-six per cent of the global demand for new electricity was met by renewables.”

“In May, China had installed a record ninety-three gigawatts of solar power—amounting to a gigawatt every eight hours. In the first quarter of the year, total carbon emissions in China have decreased with emissions linked to producing electricity falling nearly six per cent, as solar and wind have replaced coal.“

“In South America, where a decade ago there were plans to build fifteen new coal-fired power plants, as of this spring there are none.“

“Over the past fifteen years, the Chinese became so skilled at building batteries—first for cellphones, then cars, and now for entire electric systems—that the cost of energy storage has dropped ninety-five per cent.”

“Instead of relying on scattered deposits of fossil fuel—the control of which has largely defined geopolitics for more than a century—we are moving rapidly toward a reliance on diffuse but ubiquitous sources of supply. The sun and the wind are available everywhere, and they complement each other well; when sunlight diminishes in the northern latitudes at the approach of winter, the winds pick up.”

“The sun, pours out daily more than a quadrillion kilowatt hours of energy, greater than the energy contained in all the reserves of coal, oil, natural gas and uranium in the earth’s crust.”

“Burning oil to power a car or burning coal to produce electricity is at best slightly more than thirty per cent efficient—or seventy per cent inefficient. For that reason, it takes two to three times more energy to run a standard car than to run an E.V. E-biking may prove to be an even more important innovation. The e-bike is almost unbelievably efficient: to fully charge a five-hundred-watt e-bike costs about eight cents. That charge provides some thirty miles of range, so it costs about a penny to travel five miles.”

“In Pakistan, as 2024 began, demand for electricity on the national grid started falling—not because the economy was in decline but because so many Pakistanis were putting up solar panels. As one Lahore-area corn farmer, Mohammad Murtaza, said, “I have never seen such a big change in farming. Ninety-five percent of farmland has switched to solar in this area.” If you have travelled through rural Asia, you know the sound of diesel generators pumping the millions of deep tube wells. Now solar electricity is pumping the water—diesel sales in Pakistan fell thirty per cent in 2024. If you’re a farmer, that’s kind of a miracle; fuel, one of your biggest costs, is simply gone. As Waqas Moosa, a Pakistani solar entrepreneur told journalist David Roberts, in February, “a three-kilowatt inverter with, you know, maybe four or five panels is now routinely included in a bride’s dowry.”“

“How did Pakistanis learn to put up all those panels?
Training programs, tips, and tricks hotlines and such sprang up, as people around the country started sharing notes, so that tens of thousands of electricians and others could get into the game. TikTok videos set to Punjabi music, showing electricians unboxing inverters and comparing Chinese panel brands.
The Pakistan example is particularly significant because the sale of Chinese solar panels is cannibalizing demand from the very coal plants China financed in that nation just a few years ago, as part of its New Silk Road, making it a litmus test for China’s global climate leadership. By treating Pakistan as a proving ground for managing stranded fossil assets while scaling renewable ecosystems, China has the opportunity to develop and validate transition models that could be exported across the Global South.”

“The current predictions for Solar are that by 2026, solar will generate more electricity than all the world’s nuclear plants combined. By 2029, it will generate more than all the hydro dams. By 2031, it will have outstripped gas and, by 2032, coal. According to the I.E.A., solar is likely to become the world’s primary source of all energy, not just electricity, by 2035.”

“According to a 2023 report from the Energy Transitions Commission, all the materials needed to reach net zero by 2050 will be less than the amount of coal consumed in a year. Lithium, once mined, does its job for decades; coal just gets burned, which means you have to mine more. And, when batteries or solar panels degrade, the minerals in them remain valuable enough that they will almost certainly be recycled—large-scale recycling operations are appearing around the world. A report from the Rocky Mountain Institute predicted that by 2050 we will have done all the mining we’ll need to do for battery minerals; after that, we’ll just recycle them, over and over again.”

“A one-acre solar farm produces as much energy as 100 acres of corn-based ethanol.” In April, researchers at Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences noted that all the corn grown for ethanol in the U.S. takes up about thirty million acres, an area roughly the size of New York State. If forty-six per cent of that land were converted to producing solar energy, they found, it would generate enough electricity for the U.S. to decarbonize its system by 2050.”

“It’s possible that renewables will see yet another acceleration, driven not just by climate worries but by security fears, as nations seek some insulation from geopolitical, macro, and financial risks. A 2023 poll by the market research firm Glocalities, of twenty-one thousand respondents in twenty-one countries, found that sixty-eight per cent favored solar energy, five times more than public support for fossil fuels. And surveys conducted by the communications and research firm Global Strategy Group in the fall of 2024 found that eighty-seven per cent of Americans—and almost eighty per cent of people planning to vote for Trump—favored the clean-energy tax credits in the I.R.A. “Solar power remains the most popular source of electricity in America,” Global Strategy Group partner Andrew Baumann said, “with broad support across the political spectrum. If we can make the transition affordable and easy, the will is there.“

Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization is available to buy or reserve in your local Library on the 19th August. Just don’t buy it on Amazon! 

You can read the full article from Bill in The New Yorker

Photos via The Atlantic :

#China #climateChange #OWGF #Solar #SolarPunk #sustainability #WindPower

Damon Gameau takes eight kids on the ultimate school excursion: a road trip across Europe to challenge powerful leaders and find solutions to our greatest ecological challenges. This is a coming - of - age journey that dares to imagine a brighter future. #OWGF #ClimateChange #Regeneration
Coming to Australian cinemas August 7, with a special Q&A Tour starting in July.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLPQxANfoxo&t=2s

Participatory Urbanism: A beginners guide

I recently did a speech to my local Rotary Club about a Participatory Urbanism project I am working on. To my surprise, the audience appeared equally interested in the whole Participatory Urbanism concept, as much as the project itself. So I thought it would be good to put together a quick explainer, which I can point people to, if they are interested.

Participatory Urbanism is an approach to city planning and development that actively involves citizens in the decision-making processes, right from the start, to create more inclusive, responsive, and sustainable urban environments.

Urban planning, once the exclusive domain of architects, developers, and policymakers, is slowly opening its doors to the people who live in the neighbourhoods they are shaping. This movement—known as Participatory Urbanism—is about putting residents at the centre of urban change. Unlike what we see right now, where residents are on the periphery of any decision making.

Participatory Urbanism invites community members to co-create the future of their cities. It moves beyond consultation into real collaboration, where local knowledge, lived experiences, and collective imagination become essential tools in the planning process. Whether it’s redesigning a park, rethinking traffic flow, or creating more inclusive public spaces, the goal is to make cities not just more efficient—but more just, vibrant, and responsive to human needs.

This approach goes by many names. You might hear it called “collaborative urbanism”, “community-led planning”, or “co-design”. In digital spaces, it intersects with “civic tech” and the “smart citizen” movement, where data and tools empower residents to advocate for better services. In the physical world, it often overlaps with “tactical urbanism”—those DIY, grassroots projects that temporarily transform urban spaces to test new ideas.

What unites all these threads is a simple but powerful belief: the people who live in a place are experts in their own right. By making space for their voices, we build not just better cities—but stronger communities.

Right now we get community participation really, really wrong. Most civic systems are hierarchical, with decisions made by a few “experts” behind closed doors. Public participation is often tokenistic—last-minute, limited, and on the civic leaders’ terms. It feels disingenuous, formal, and uninspiring, excluding genuine input and creativity. The same voices dominate, while people are sidelined and are not truly at the centre of decision-making.

Participatory Urbanism ultimately means reimagining our cities as places shaped by the people who live in them. It shifts power from top-down planning to collaborative processes where residents have a real say in decisions that affect their daily lives. This approach fosters more inclusive, equitable, and responsive urban environments by valuing local knowledge, creativity, and lived experience. When communities co-create their neighbourhoods—whether through planning, design, or stewardship—cities become more vibrant, just, and resilient. Participatory urbanism is about putting people at the heart of urban change, ensuring cities are not just built for communities, but built with them.

There is no one single way to implement Participatory Urbanism. Lots of cities are trying to do it right now and we see lots of different ideas and models emerging. In reality there never should be one single approach/method/model because that flies in the face of the whole idea of consulting local residents. An approach that suits one city may not work in another. Fortunately there are lots of examples we can look at from around the world, and take inspiration from. I wrote about Bologna, Italy’s approach here: https://owgf.org/2024/08/02/should-we-follow-bolognas-model-for-participatory-urbanism/ There is also the Transition Network working on providing ideas for communities that want to organise, which I posted about here: https://owgf.org/2024/08/04/transition-togethers-free-step-by-step-guide/ Also a quick web search for “Participatory Urbanism Tools” will deliver more results than you can poke a stick at.

Our Wonderful Green Future will be a co-designed by the people, for the people.

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGF

#Environment #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #SolarPunk #StrongTowns #sustainability #Urbanism

#Melbourne #MelboureRegenNetwork #OWGF #Regeneration
https://www.regen.melbourne/news/reimagining-our-cities

Building a Sustainable home in the Australian Outback

In 2024 Anika Molesworth and her partner set out to build a family home in a remote part of New South Wales. They were looking to create, in Anika’s words, “something comfortable, a beautiful space that complemented the land, and a house that doesn’t cost the planet.” That was the mission. But after speaking with various builders, both local and from afar, and getting ideas on new house builds (mainly kit-home/modular type things) they all just felt wrong. The ideas they were presenting and the materials they would be using, went against the whole idea of sustainability.

Faced with these new-build issues, Anika’s attention turned to an abandoned homestead on her family’s property. “It was very humble. Like seriously humble. Tiny windows, small dark rooms, not an ounce of insulation. Never connected to any services. It was going to be a big task making it comfortable.” But Anika could see the potential.

A few local builders were invited over to have a look and give their ideas. The first one said “better to build a new home using refrigerator panels.” Which he happened to sell, dismissing the renovation concept as a waste of time and money. Time and again Anika bumped up with people who just could not see the vision and had no idea what she was talking about with ‘recycling, reclaiming and using natural materials’. Local suppliers – from electricians to plumbing – just tried to sell her the same cheap, imported products. When Anika spoke to a local plumbing supplier about composting toilets she was simply met with eye rolling.

This whole experience Anika found deeply frustrating. Which I can relate to. Trying to build an “eco” home myself, when nobody in the building trade is thinking deeply about sustainability it is very hard. There is a lot of greenwashing going on and “eco” claims that just don’t stack up under scrutiny. But whereas I ended up compromising in lots of areas, just to get the job done, that is not how Anika rolls.

Anika stuck to her guns. She thought “ if I do go for the cheap, easy option (e.g. an acrylic benchtop that is sold in the local hardware store) am I going to be satisfied at the end of the day living in my house, will I have created my dream forever home or not?” The answer was obviously no. So Anika put in the extra legwork, researching products, reading reviews, getting shipping quotes, speaking with suppliers about the unique challenges – like extreme heat and dryness – and then taking a gamble that the product she was purchasing and getting shipped would be as good as she hoped, despite never having seen them in person.

When it came to energy self-sufficiency Anika faced endless sniggers from people who “don’t trust” renewable energy, proclaiming “you’ll run out of power”, “you won’t be cooking Christmas dinner this year”, etc. When in fact, her 30kWh battery and 20kW solar system on the roof has worked faultlessly. Her house is fitted with compressed wall panels (Durra Panel), recycled glass benchtops (Eco Benchtops), bamboo flooring (House of Bamboo), reclaimed deck timber (Thor’s Hammer), water tanks (Bushmans), even an electric buggy (Polaris Electric Ranger).

What Anika and her partner hoped to achieve with this house was to share their story with others—especially those currently renovating or building. They wanted to encourage people to prioritise planet-friendly design and materials. Stay true to their values, and don’t let pushy salespeople make you feel silly for wanting something different. 

Along with the house Anika has spent a lot of time establishing a native garden and describes it as “so fulfilling seeing zebra finches, wrens, mulga parrots right outside our window. It makes the effort feel truly rewarding.” Thinking about creating harmony between indoors and outdoors was always part of the plan, with the garden complemented by a collection of indoor plants that enhance the mood and atmosphere of the home—breathing life into each room.

I really applaud Anika’s dogged determination. It’s hard to do a project like this in a big city where there are more resources and it’s easier to find more like minded people. But in Outback Australia there can be a higher level of conservatism and sticking to conventional ways of doing. There isn’t the luxury of different suppliers and services and those suppliers don’t get as much exposure to new ideas. So, to achieve what Anika has achieved is even more special. Her decision to renovate has resulted in a home with infinitely more character than anything she would have got with a new build. Hopefully Anika’s story will get heard by others living in remote places and inspire them to make more sustainable and ecological choices.

You can read more here: https://outbacksmarthome.weebly.com/

#Australia #ecoFriendly #Environment #Outback #OWGF #SolarPunk #sustainability #sustainableLiving

I have wanted to write a blog post about Cheonggyecheon for ages but could never find enough really good high rez photos.
Turns out I don't need to now because @notjustbikes has just dropped a great video explaining the project and its all beautifully filmed. 👍 #Korea #Seoul #Urbanism #SolarPunk #OWGF #NotJustBikes https://nebula.tv/videos/notjustbikes-they-tore-down-a-highway-and-made-it-a-river/

#OWGF #Cycling

7 Cities Transforming Streets into Bike-Friendly Havens.
#Bikes #Cycling #OWGF
https://discerningcyclist.com/bike-friendly-cities/

RECONNECT
RETHINK
RESIST (Corporations)
RENEW (Regrow)
REJOICE
- Helena Norberg-Hodge
#OWGF #SOLARPUNK

Peer-to-peer energy trading + cheap solar & storage = millions of people lifted out of energy poverty.
#Bangladesh #Cambodia #ClimateChange #Energy #MicroGrids #OWGF #Peer2Peer #RenewableEnergy #Solar #SolarPower #SolarPunk #Sustainability
https://owgf.org/2025/03/10/peer-to-peer-energy-in-developing-nations/

Peer-to-peer energy in developing nations

https://youtu.be/j6oB1UjwY5w?feature=shared

It’s estimated that globally 1.18 Billion people are living in energy poverty and 700 Million are living with no electricity at all. [1] Many of them are in rural areas with no chance of ever getting connected to a mains (Fossil Fuel) grid because the electricity/maintenance would be just too expensive. Enter peer-to-peer energy trading technology, coupled with cheap solar and storage. A technology that has the potential to lift millions out of energy poverty, especially those living in equatorial regions.

Established in 2015, SOLshare, in Bangladesh, has developed one of the world’s first solar peer-to-peer energy exchange platforms, allowing households with rooftop solar home systems to trade excess electricity in real-time. This technology enables users to become both producers and consumers of electricity, enhancing energy access in areas where traditional grid infrastructure is lacking.

The SOLshare platform is comprised of three key elements

• SOLbazaar Platform: This is the core of SOLshare’s P2P trading system, which connects households and small businesses. Users can sell surplus energy generated from their solar installations to neighbours, facilitating a decentralised energy market.
• SOLbox Meter: A bi-directional smart meter that allows for the measurement and trading of electricity between users. It supports mobile payments, making transactions seamless and accessible.
• Mobile App: The SOLapp helps manage user energy and tracks consumption and trading activities, enhancing user engagement and efficiency.

SOLshare’s initiative has significantly improved energy access for rural communities in Bangladesh, where approximately 60 million people still lack reliable electricity. Some of these communities have never had access to reliable electricity. By enabling households to monetise their excess solar energy, SOLshare not only addresses energy poverty but also empowers local economies by allowing individuals to earn income through energy trading.

The company’s technology exemplifies the benefits of a shift towards decentralised and sustainable energy solutions. The Fossil Fuels industry to this day claims that renewables can’t power the world, but if history has taught us anything it’s centralised Fossil Fuels can’t power poorer regional areas. While this technology is most applicable in rural areas it can be deployed in cities to help combat blackouts and rising electricity costs.

There are other similar initiatives happening in the developing world. I touched on another initiative in Africa in this article HERE. Also in Cambodia Okra Solar are deploying something very similar which they call a Mesh Grid. It can be quickly deployed, and in this case below, redeployed when needed. Someting that is increasingly important when it comes to Climate Change adaptation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI4S2lH9DdM

You can see other projects that Okra Solar are deploying around the world here: https://www.okrasolar.com/category/case-studies

It’s not just the developing world that can benefit from this type of Solar Micro Grid. In Australia remote communities that are currently dependent on diesel generators are now being powered by Solar and Batteries. These towns would also benefit from the addition of peer-to-peer energy trading as a way to save money and build more resilience into their micro grids. https://reneweconomy.com.au/horizon-slashes-diesel-use-with-solar-and-battery-microgrids-for-remote-towns/

Solar and Storage will 100% power equatorial regions, and beyond, in the the future. It will be cheaper and more reliable. It will allow for more energy independence and will dramatically reduce emissions. We just need to hit the accelerator pedal and get deploying these projects faster so they can benefit from economies of scale.

Notes*

The Bangladesh video is from Damon Gameau who embarks on a personal journey to explore what the future could look like by the year 2040 if we embraced the best solutions available today to improve our planet and wellbeing. https://theregenerators.org/2040/

You can read more about Mesh Grids here: https://cleantechnica.com/2024/04/05/the-potential-of-solar-mesh-grids-for-last-mile-electrification/

Other links:

Al Jazeera video on Solshare: https://youtu.be/v33ERl42VYM?si=U_dZvHwzlnZEmKuk

World Economic Forum video: https://www.weforum.org/stories/2018/06/rural-bangladesh-villages-transition-renewable-energy-sebastian-groh/

#Bangladesh #Cambodia #ClimateChange #energy #MicroGrids #OWGF #Peer2Peer #Solar #SolarPunk #sustainability

Feels very topical in 2025!
#Biodiversity #ClimateChange #ClimateCrisis #Ecosystem #Egosystem #Environment #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #SolarPunk #Sustainability https://owgf.org/2025/02/15/moving-from-an-egosystem-to-an-ecosystem/

Moving from an Egosystem to an Ecosystem

In an Egosystem, the individual is seen as the centre of the universe. Success is defined solely by personal achievement, and the value of community, empathy, and shared prosperity are all relegated to the background. The Egosystem is a world view where people are encouraged to compete at all costs, accumulate wealth for themselves, and put their own interests above the well-being of others. The net result of this system is ever widening inequality, social injustice, environmental degradation and a deep sense of disconnection from one another.

In complete contrast, the Ecosystem is a world view grounded in cooperation, shared responsibility, and mutual benefit. It recognises that our individual fates are intertwined with those of others, and that a healthy planet and society require collective effort. In the natural world, ecosystems thrive because every part – whether plant, animal, or microorganism – plays a role in maintaining balance. Humans are not separate from planetary ecosystems. We are not isolated entities, but part of a larger whole, with each of us contributing to the well-being of the entire system. (Or destruction!)

The Egosystem is a fundamentally unsustainable system that inevitably leads to collapses. If history has taught us just one lesson it is, never give too much power to one individual or group. This concentration of power, whether in monarchies, authoritarian regimes, or empires, leads to corruption, exploitation, and instability, as unchecked control favours personal interests over the collective good. The unchecked human ego is a dangerous force that can drive individuals or groups to justify any means to achieve their desires, regardless of the cost to others. This inflated sense of self-importance has fuelled wars, from religious crusades to imperial conquests, causing violence and devastation. Leaders consumed by their own egos dismiss human life and use violence for dominance. 

The history lessons are clear: a healthy society thrives on balance, accountability and the dispersion, of power ensuring no one can impose their will unchecked. Whenever we give too much power and allow egos to grow, the consequences are catastrophic, deepening divisions and creating widespread harm. While the pendulum has very much swung towards the Egosystem, over the last few decades, we can look forward to the pendulum swinging back towards an Ecosystem in the not so distant future. To embrace the Ecosystem is to embrace the idea that we are all interconnected – that our actions, both positive and negative, have far-reaching consequences. It is a shift from seeing the world through the lens of competition and self-interest to seeing it through the lens of collaboration and interdependence. This means recognising that prosperity is not just for the few, but for the many. It means understanding that taking care of others, supporting the most vulnerable, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed is not only ethical but necessary for long-term stability. 

The Benefits of Embracing the Ecosystem

The benefits of adopting the Ecosystem world view are profound. An Ecosystem creates a more just and equitable society. In an ecosystem, resources are shared and distributed in a way that supports the well-being of all its members. It’s a world where no one is left behind, inequality is reduced, and opportunities for personal growth and success are more widely accessible, because the system is helping everyone, not just a privileged few.

Embracing an Ecosystem approach leads to greater environmental sustainability. The exploitation of the Earth’s resources for individual gain without regard for long-term consequences has led to this climate crisis, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. Recognising we live in an Ecosystem means recognition that we are stewards of this planet. To care for the Earth is to care for ourselves. By focusing on sustainable practices, regeneration, and reducing our collective environmental footprint, we can restore balance and create a healthier world for future generations.

The Ecosystem fosters greater social cohesion and solidarity. When we prioritise the communal good, we begin to heal the divisions that have fractured many societies around the globe. Whether it’s through universal healthcare, social safety nets, or fair wages, creating systems that ensure everyone has a stake in society builds trust and mutual respect. A society that values community over competition is a society that thrives.

The Ecosystem is not centrally controlled. In nature it is guided by fundamental laws of physics and planetary boundaries, but there is no “ruler.” A social Ecosystem is guided by basic principals, that support the concept, with as much decision making as possible being made at a “community” level. Human activities that cause the most environmental damage are considered less desirable than activities that minimise environmental damage. Actions that are less exploitative are considered more desirable than actions that blatantly exploit. Human endeavours that benefit both the individual and the whole are more desirable than endeavours that just benefit the individual.

A Better Future for All

The important thing for us to do is make sure the Egosystem never dominates the public realm and how we govern our nations and our planet. Our Wonderful Green Future is not one where the individual stands alone, isolated in their pursuit of wealth and power. It is one where we embrace the Ecosystem – a world built on cooperation, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. By prioritising the well-being of all over the interests of a few, we can create a more just, sustainable, and prosperous world for everyone.

Living in an Ecosystem does not mean giving up freedom, individuality or autonomy. Just the opposite. It simply recognises that individuality exists as part of a bigger whole, not completely separate from it. Freedom of expression, individuality, uniqueness and diversity are all celebrated in an Ecosystem, much more than they are in an authoritarian Egosystem that demands compliance and uniformity. The Ecosystem fully embraces human creativity and encourages it to flourish. This is the opposite of an Egosystem where the creativity and imagination of an individual is crushed and replaced with that of the leader. The Ecosystem does not completely deny the ego, or some degree of selfishness, it’s just they are recognised as PART of a bigger Ecosystem, not completely separate, and of greater importance. People are encouraged to build their personal “wealth” but not though the exploitation of the environment or to detriment of others.

The Egosystem has become the dominant world view since the 1980’s but it has led us to the brink of a poly crisis. It has fuelled inequality, environmental destruction, and the rise of deadly ideologies. Ecosystem thinking offers a better way forward that restores balance, nurtures our planet, and fosters community. It is time for us to embrace this vision, for the good of all. Our Wonderful Green future depends on this and it really is the only way to escape the endless cycle of destruction, exploitation and violence we see in the world today.

The only reason we exist is because of our Planetary Ecosystem. Without it there would be no humans and no egos. Diversity is our strength. Just as ecosystems in nature rely on balance, so too does humanity. To thrive, we must recognise that without the health of the whole, there is no individual success. Only through cooperation and Ecosystem thinking do we build a better future. 

Note:

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed on the SocialWeb at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a SocialWeb companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGFhttps://pixelfed.social/OWGF

• Mastodon

#Biodiversity #CircularEconomy #ClimateChange #ClimateCrisis #Ecosystem #Egosystem #Environment #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #SolarPunk #sustainability

Connecting with nature | Field Studies

One thing I am personally involved in right now is getting more greenery into my local community and encouraging more people to connect with it. This excellent video delves into the concept of Nature Connectedness, and how it is about more than having contact with nature, it means having a sense of a relationship with nature.

In this video The Natural History Museum outlines a five step pathway to guide people towards nature connectedness, as well as talking about how to engage with nature when in an urban environment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMwvCIlCmOM

Note:

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGF

#Biodiversity #ClimateChange #Community #connectedness #connection #nature #OWGF #philosophy #Regeneration #StrongTowns #Urbanism

Let’s use the word ReGrowth, not degrowth

We know the word degrowth is unappealing, thanks to loss aversion theory.0 Loss aversion theory refers to a cognitive bias in which a situation is perceived as worse if it is framed as a loss, rather than a gain. Losses tend to be treated as if they were twice as large as an equivalent gain. This makes it impossible to build a successful movement based on loss, such as a degrowth movement.

ReGrowth is essentially Regeneration. It means fixing the mess that mass consumerism has created. Fixing the untold damage that 70+ years of consumerism has done to our planet, our cites and to people. ReGrowth means taking what has been broken and rebuilding a better world around people and nature.

We need to ReGrow our social connections again, and cure the global loneliness epidemic. 1 We need to ReGrow our lost forests and regenerate our depleted soils. We need to ReGrow our cities into thriving spaces for people, nature, commerce and entertainment. Let’s ReGrow a pollution free planet and restore the abundant wildlife it once sustained. Let’s ReGrow our democracies from the ground up, through local communities. ReGrowth is a story of positive life affirming and life enhancing growth, not the toxic, exploitative, planet wrecking growth we have today.

How do we Regrow our world? It starts with one simple step; change the way we measure success. Because what gets measured gets managed. Instead of using GDP as an indicator of success we could use something different. Let’s call it RPI. (Regrowth Progress Indicator) RPI would measure environmental and societal impacts of every activity and take them into consideration in every decision making process. Everything we make and build and do would need to be contributing to ReGrowth in some way. This one change alone, if it was mandatory for Governments and Corporations, would change the world as we know it, for the better.

Changing the way we measure success changes the way we make decisions.
Instead of simply asking, how much will this cost and how much will this earn? we should ask “how will this ReGrow our community, our social cohesion, our biodiversity, our…?” Not measuring environmental impacts, health impacts, societal impacts has put us into this poly crisis. Measuring and taking action to avoid negative impacts is the way we get out. The only question then is, what do we measure to inform our decisions?

We already have some excellent thinking in this area. Genuine Progress Indicator. (GPI) Index of Human Development. (HDI) Human Poverty Index. (HPI) Gross Domestic Happiness. (GDH) Index of Sustainable Economic Welfare. (ISEW) Happy Planet Index (HPI) Green gross domestic product (Green GDP or GGDP) are all different ways of measuring what matters, that we can draw inspiration from. We also have Doughnut Economics, which provides a whole economic system that broadens the definition of economic success by incorporating factors such as social welfare, environmental sustainability, and human thriving.

If we put new metrics in place we encourage new thinking. Every problem becomes an opportunity to make life better. We kick off a race to the top, not to the bottom. Degrowth speaks to us of the need for less. We do need less pollution, less destruction, less climate change, less social injustice, but we need to frame it as ReGrowth, then we focus on more. We can think about a more vibrant society, more freedom, more social mobility, more resilience, more free time, more sustainability, more actual free speech, more good jobs, more…

SolarPunk is that ReGrowth story. It’s not about creating a perfect world, it’s about creating a better world, as well as accepting imperfection. It’s less of a destination and more of a journey, guided by new ReGrowth metrics. It’s about ensuring every day we are healing our planet, healing our societies, healing ourselves. Every day we move from an extractive and exploitation economy to a restorative and fair society.

There are three possible paths to ReGrowth. Through economic collapse, through incremental change or through rapid change. As we don’t know exactly when economic collapse WILL happen, we need to prepare for all three. With economic collapse and rapid change, it’s important to have a whole system thought out, ready for this great transformation, like Doughnut Economics. With incremental change we need to look at the world as it is now and try and implement as many smaller changes and ReGrowth metrics as possible. Whatever the way forward we can and should plan for them all.
ReGrowing after the collapse means two things. Starting now, building more sustainable communities. Like joining a Transition Town movement2 or starting a Solar punk Community3. As well as planning for a complete restructure after collapse happens. (Retro Suburbia)
ReGrowing incrementally means looking at how we can put those ReGrowth metrics into our governments, into companies, into local councils. Looking at how we can make changes within the current system. While accepting that this is not the ideal outcome.
ReGrowing for rapid change means facilitating rapid change. Joining a progressive organisation that seeks this kind of rapid change. Supporting the people who want rapid ecological based change now.4 This can also be done while pushing for incremental changes or building more sustainable communities.

Our world is like a sick and dying tree. Its branches badly hacked by consumerism, its roots damaged by political lies, its leaves burnt by climate change and its biodiversity diminished. But it still lives. It can still be saved, it can still grow 1000’s more offspring and create a giant forest. It’s time to ReGrow that tree, heel our planet and our societies and make them more abundant than we have ever known.

Featured image thanks to Sharyn Morrow https://www.flickr.com/photos/sharynmorrow/ shared under CC licence

Note:

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGF

#Biodiversity #CircularEconomy #climateChange #ClimateAction #DeGrowth #Environment #OWGF #Regeneration #ReGrowth #Soil #SolarPunk #sustainability #Urbanism

This is another great story from Africa. Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, has announced a plan to phase out petrol-powered motorcycle taxis, starting January 2025. Petrol-powered motorbike taxis account for about 20% of all trips in Rwanda’s capital and significantly contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Electrifying motorcycle taxis offer many benefits. Zero tailpipe emissions, significantly improving air quality and contribute to global efforts against climate change. Electric motorcycles have a much lower operational costs compared to their petrol counterparts. With rising fuel prices, riders find that switching to electric leads to substantial savings. The Rwanda government spends about 23 billion Rwandan Francs (about 15.8 million euros) on fuel imports per year. Switching to electric motorcycles will reduce fuel import costs to about 14 billion Rwandan Francs (about 9.6 million euros).

Enter Ampersand: Pioneering Electric Mobility

A key player in this transition is Ampersand, a Rwandan company at the forefront of electric mobility solutions. Founded in 2017, Ampersand has been dedicated to providing electric motorcycles that are not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable for riders.

Ampersand’s electric motorcycles are designed specifically for the needs of the Rwandan market, combining durability with affordability. With a focus on local production and maintenance, Ampersand is not just reducing emissions; it’s also creating jobs and fostering economic growth within the community.

One of the most interesting features of Ampersand motorcycles is their innovative battery-swapping technology. This system allows riders to quickly exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones at strategically located stations throughout the city. This eliminates the long downtime typically associated with charging electric vehicles, making it a practical solution for the daily hustle of motorcycle operators.

A Vision for the Future

Kigali’s commitment to phasing out petrol-powered motorcycles is bold vision for the future of mobility in the city. As Kigali moves forward with this initiative, it will hopefully inspire other cities in the region to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that could lead to widespread adoption of electric mobility solutions across the continent. Hopefully more African ebike makers will sprout up too. There are others our there, like https://www.ecobodaa.bike but the more the merrier.
More links and info: https://www.electrive.com/2024/11/06/kigali-phases-out-petrol-powered-motorcycles/
https://kigalijournal.com/ampersand-to-roll-out-600000-electric-motorbikes-in-kigali/
https://www.ampersand.solar/

https://owgf.org/2024/11/07/kigalis-bold-move-phasing-out-petrol-powered-motorcycles/

#Africa #climateChange #Ebike #electricVehicles #ElectricMotorbikes #Environment #OWGF #renewableEnergy #sustainability #Urbanism

This is someting Fossil Fuel Power Stations have never been able to do. Provide reliable electricity to millions of people in Africa, particularly in rural areas. The first Coal power station in Africa was built in 1895, yet 130 years later many regions remain in the dark, with over 600 million people without electricity access. All that is now changing with Renewables. In a small village in Zimbabwe, new possibilities are emerging with the launch of a solar mini-grid, showcasing the potential of renewable energy to truly transform lives.

On October 3, 2024, the Hakwata village in Chipinge District celebrated the commissioning of a 200-kW solar mini-grid, a pivotal project valued at nearly US$2 million. This initiative, which brings clean, reliable electricity to over 100 homes and businesses for the first time, is a significant stride towards achieving Zimbabwe’s sustainable energy goals.

President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, who officiated the commissioning, highlighted the urgent need for increased electricity access, noting that only 23.4% of rural areas currently have grid electricity. He emphasised the importance of collaboration among government and development partners to enhance energy access in these underserved communities.

Dr. Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Resident Representative, expressed the broader impact of the solar mini-grid, stating, “This solar mini-grid is not just providing electricity; it is powering dreams, fostering equality, and catalyzing sustainable development across multiple fronts.” The project currently operates at 20% capacity, supplying power to 85 homes, 18 businesses, a school, a clinic, and three community boreholes, with the potential for future growth.

The benefits of this project are already palpable. Local shopkeeper Ms. Hamunyari Muzvuzvu shared her transformative experience: “Before, I used expensive gas to power my shop’s fridges. Now, with the solar mini-grid, I’m spending less on energy and earning more. I’ve even expanded my business to sell kitchen appliances that use electricity.” Such testimonies illustrate how renewable energy can not only improve livelihoods but also promote local economic development.

The Climate Adaptation Water Energy Programme (CAWEP), a collaboration between the British Government, the Government of Zimbabwe, and UNDP, has played a crucial role in this initiative. This US$13.6 million project aims to extend sustainable development to often-overlooked rural areas. The British Ambassador, Pete Vowles, reinforced this commitment by stating, “Energy access is a fundamental right and key to economic growth.”

In addition to the mini-grid, CAWEP has provided Hakwata with solar home kits, biogas digesters for clean cooking, an automated weather station, and solar streetlights. This comprehensive strategy is designed to significantly boost local economic activity, improve living conditions, and enhance the quality of life, particularly for women and girls.

Looking ahead, similar climate adaptation projects are in the pipeline for Binga, Insiza, and Chivi Districts, focusing on renewable energy, irrigation schemes, and improved water access. These initiatives underscore a broader vision for rural electrification across Zimbabwe.

The future of energy in Africa is not large-scale fossil fuel projects, but in distributed renewable solutions like solar mini-grids. As technology advances and costs decrease, the potential for similar projects to flourish across the continent is immense. The success in Hakwata is a clear indication that with the right investments and partnerships, we can indeed illuminate the path to a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Note:

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGFhttps://pixelfed.social/OW

https://owgf.org/2024/10/29/zimbabwe-solar-mini-grid/

#Africa #Renewables #Solar #Zimbabwe #climateChange #energy #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #renewableEnergy #Solar #solarPower #sustainability

Following on from my Net Zero Cities Infographic, I thought I would knock up another one for Regional Communities, with a focus on Australia. As Australia moves towards a Net Zero future, regional communities stand on the brink of a transformative era. This shift promises not only environmental benefits but also significant economic opportunities that can reshape rural Australia. As the Fossil Fuels Industry and its political “allies” lobby hard to stop this change, it’s worth taking a moment to stop and look at the many benefit this transition can potentially bring, if managed properly, and if we stop listening to disingenuous narratives about Net Zero.

Economic Stability

One of the most under-reported advantages of this transition is economic stability. Regional communities will no longer be subject to the fluctuations of global fossil fuel prices, thanks to investments in renewables and electric vehicles, where the capital cost can be fixed over decades. No more energy price hikes when global conflicts arise, resulting in greater economic resilience.

Affordable Renewable Energy

With the expansion of rooftop and ground solar, and partnerships with renewable energy developers, residents can look forward to year-round access to affordable electricity. This abundance of cheap energy will not only lower utility bills but will also provide a reliable power source for new local industries that can also thrive thanks to cheap renewables energy.

Enhancing Productivity

The integration of farming with renewable energy will enhance land productivity. Agrivoltaics is an innovative approach that allows for dual use of land, where agriculture and energy generation co-exist, leading to more efficient land use and increased yields. Land owners hosting renewables will be both farmers and energy producers.

Job Creation

The transition to a Net Zero economy has the potential to create over a million new jobs across Australia, particularly in regional areas. These jobs will span a range of sectors, from construction to maintenance, ensuring a diverse and sustainable employment landscape. These are not boom and bust jobs but long term and well paid.

Cleaner Air and Health Benefits

Moving away from fossil fuels will lead to significant public health benefits. Air pollution from burning coal is responsible for approximately 800 deaths each year in Australia, along with numerous other health issues. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources will improve air quality and health outcomes for communities living near coal power stations, fracking sites and oil & gas wells.

Energy Security

Locally generated and locally stored energy will bolster energy security, creating a more reliable local grid less prone to blackouts. This increased reliability is crucial for both residents and businesses, enhancing overall community resilience. Regional communities will no longer endure weeks without power when a pylon gets blown over.

Investment in Communities

Renewable energy developers are committing to investing in local infrastructure. This includes building new schools and hospitals, which are vital for community development and wellbeing. Additionally, these investments can address all manner of pressing local issues, such as youth crime prevention and the establishment of new libraries and aged care facilities.

Cleaner Water and Environmental Restoration

Coal mining and fracking have severely compromises water quality in parts of Australia, leading to pollution that affects groundwater and surface water sources, with detrimental impacts on both ecosystems and community health. Ending coal mining and fracking will lead to cleaner water sources, improving groundwater quality and river health.

New Industries

Abundant renewable energy will attract thousands of new industries to regional Australia, looking for cheap reliable power. We will see a rise in many new low carbon industries such as precision agriculture, fossil free fertilisers as well as large electrification support industry.

Local Investment

A significant shift will occur in spending habits. Billions of dollars previously spent on imported petrol, diesel & electricity will be spent in local businesses. This redirection of money will invigorate regional economies, creating a more sustainable financial ecosystem.

Regeneration

Net Zero will mean moving away from systems that are continually depleting natural capital, to systems that are restoring organic life. We will see the regeneration of regional landscapes, that will revitalise ecosystems, enhance biodiversity and restore natural habitats. Regeneration will boost local economies by improving agricultural productivity, and increasing resilience against climate change.

What’s not to like?

We are at the start of a Climate Crisis that is already causing untold harm to Regional Australia, and as temperatures rise, things are set to get much worse. All Australians have a chance to be part of the solution, to create a Wonderful Green Future, if we just stop listening to fossil fuels lobbyists and their politicians. The quicker we change the better and really, we don’t have a choice. “The future will be Net Zero or not at all.”

Despite what the Fossil Fuels lobbyists and their Politicians say Net Zero is a huge opportunity for Regional Australia. The journey towards a Net Zero future will involve many significant changes for regional Australia, but it is a change filled with promise. Communities that embrace clean energy and climate action stand to gain billions in economic benefits, new job opportunities, and improved health outcomes. By capitalising on these developments, regional communities can evolve from energy importers to energy producers, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable future.

There are 1000’s of people and organisations across Australia working on this vision, here a few of note:

Farmers For Climate Action

BZE

Re-alliance

Climate Council

The Coalition for Community Energy (C4CE)

Climate Action Network Australia

Clean Energy Council

Photo by Kshithij Chandrashekar on Unsplash

https://owgf.org/2024/09/25/net_zero_regional_communities/

#Australia #Biodiversity #climateChange #energy #Environment #NetZero #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #renewableEnergy #Soil #sustainability

I created this infographic to highlight the positive transformations that can happen in our cities as we move towards Net Zero. Contrary to the fears some might have, Net Zero is not a grim scenario. Instead, it offers a chance to address the many issues currently affecting our cities with better solutions. As we face a climate-changed future, living sustainably and prioritising the environment will become essential. This means generating less waste, using less energy, and reimagining our economy and daily practices.

More Nature

Our net Zero cities will be filled with greenery. Trees provide numerous benefits, so we will plant them everywhere. We will need to be creating pocket parks, food forests, nature-bathing spaces, wildlife habitats, and pollinator corridors. Our cities will become green havens, moving away from being dominated by concrete and industrial forms. GIMBYism – Greenery in my back yard, please

SuDS & Sponge Cities

In Net Zero Cities we will be a lot better at managing water. Building sustainable Urban Drainage Systems. (SuDS) Networks, of engineered vegetated areas and open spaces, (e.g; green roofs, rain gardens and porous pavements) designed to protect natural ecosystems and offer benefits to people and wildlife. We will be building Sponge Cities that emphasise flood management through green infrastructure. Sponge Cities alleviate urban flooding, water shortages, and heat island effects by incorporating more parks, gardens, green spaces, wetlands, nature strips, and permeable pavings.

Streets for People

In Net Zero Cities we will be reclaiming streets from polluting vehicles and making them safe for walking, cycling and for children to play in. We will be converting roads into multi-purpose spaces where everyone feels safe and welcome. Taking our streets back from being places to store cars and turning them into nature strips.

3rd Places

Net Zero Cities will see lots more spaces for people to gather and socialise. 3rd places where people can organise pop-up shops, music venues, or even dancing in the street. Third places that foster community interaction and provide a relaxed environment for people to gather outside of home and work.

Transport Choices

Net Zero Cities will see the end of Car Dependency. Residents will have multiple options for getting around. From walking to local amenities to using bikes and scooters for longer trips. Dedicated lanes for Micro Mobility will be ubiquitous. Public transport will be expanded to cover all parts of the city. Private vehicles will be slowed down on side streets, and car ownership discouraged in favour of car sharing.

Economic Resilience

Net Zero Cities will need to support locally owned businesses that sell locally made products and recycle any “waste.” Building an economy that measures collective happiness and well-being, not just wealth. Ensuring cities are as self sufficient as possible, while being connected to global and regional networks with zero emissions transport.

Ministries of Imagination

Empowering people to co-design their neighbourhoods with local councils and implement changes for everyone’s benefit. Creating “pacts”, similar to those in Bologna, where local residents can propose ideas for improving the local community and get funding and support for their ideas.
Should we follow bolognas model for participatory urbanism?

Energy Self-Sufficiency

In Net Zero cities we will be producing 85% of energy locally, with solar, and storing it in community batteries. With peer-to-peer energy trading and connected microgrids, communities will be able to share their energy with neighbours. Energy efficiency and using smart appliances to manage demand will make the whole system more resilient.

Urban Farming

In Net Zero Cities, urban food production will greatly expand. We’ll see more herbs and leafy greens growing in residential gardens and community spaces. Food forests with fruit and nut trees will transform unused areas into productive green spaces. Vertical farms will be supplying local stores with fresh produce. Also allotments near apartment buildings will enable residents to grow their own vegetables and herbs, fostering community and sustainability.

Better Health

Net Zero Cities will be considerably better for human health. We will see big reductions in air pollution, traffic noise, stress, traffic violence and loneliness. At the same time we will have more active lifestyles, more community connections and access to a lot more calming green spaces.

Common Ownership

In Net Zero Cities we will be embracing a sharing economy where people share tools, appliances, vehicles, toys, books, clothes and more. We will dramatically reduce the need for personal ownership of rarely used items by placing them into the public realm. When an item is no longer wanted it can go to a “library” for others to use.

More Public Housing

Net Zero Cities will ensure design and building decisions are based on community and environmental needs rather than profit. We will need a lot more public housing, cooperatives, and community land trusts, for better social outcomes. All buildings will be designed and built with end of life “Urban Mining” in mind and to the highest environmental standards.

Urban Mining Centres

“Waste” is only waste if we choose not to reuse it. Our cities contain valuable materials and commodities that can be repaired, reused, or recycled. Future cities will feature Urban Mining Centres where everything previously considered waste will be repaired, reused, or recycled. Our cities will be filled with 1000’s of companies like this Revival Projects employing 10,000’s of people.

And that’s it! My very top level Net Zero Cities features and benefits. If I have missed any super important points, or you have any other comments, please share them below or in the Fediverse. https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

There is a whole lot more information on how we bring nature into our cities in this book, if you want to dive into the details: Nature-Based Solutions for Cities

https://owgf.org/2024/09/18/net-zero-cities/

#Biodiversity #CircularEconomy #ClimateAction #Environment #NetZeroCities #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #SolarPunk #UrbanFarming #Urbanism

Turning car parking into Green Spaces YEESSS!
#Urbanism #Greening #ClimateAction #OWGF

@mike @jejord @AileenLalor @miaq @marci
You should be featuring #OWGF of course ! 🙂

Not just because it’s inspiring people about Our (potential) Wonderful Green Future but there is also the #WordPress #ActivityPub integrated website that promotes the #Fediverse. www.OWGF.org which is also in the Fediverse here @owgf.org
+ The #PixelFed account https://pixelfed.social/OWGF
+ This account too https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

#OurWonderfulGreenFuture ❤️ #SocialWeb

What If… we could reimagine our future as thriving, fairer, more resilient and more connected? How could that vision help us to move forward and take practical action towards a better future?

Transition Together have just brought out a free step-by-step guide to building a community vision, a great tool for making local change. The guide is designed to help groups and communities open up their imagination and start exploring what a better future could look like in their context. It helps to build a shared vision of what’s possible, a vital starting point to exploring how we can work together to make it a reality.

The guide is for any group that wants to expand their vision of what’s possible in the future and explore how they want to work towards it. It is designed for starting conversations within a local community and to create a space to hear different perspectives and needs. The exercise can also be used to investigate a single theme or issue, like food or transport, or by a group which isn’t place-based but wants to reimagine the future of their area of interest – like the arts or youth provision.

If you are from a community group that wants to invite the wider community into this process you might like to do this exercise within your organisation first. This lets you become really familiar with it before running it with a bigger audience, but also allows your members to fully contribute and explore your priorities and focus in a deeper, richer way.

The guide is based on the experience of the Transition Movement, a network of community groups in 50 countries; people working together locally to address the big, complex problems of our time. They do this by reimagining our local communities, and then taking practical action to help them become thriving, inclusive, more resilient places for everyone. ‘Transition’ simply means change and how we get from one thing to another – from a damaging, polluting, unequal present to a fairer, more resilient, regenerative future for all.

There are some 300 local Transition groups in communities across the UK. They are supported by Transition Together in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and by Scottish Communities Climate Action Network (SCCAN) in Scotland. This approach to visioning was developed during the global coronavirus pandemic and is inspired by Rob Hopkins’ work around What if, and the 3 horizons framework (https://www.h3uni.org/). This framework was developed to help navigate situations where there is a high level of uncertainty and also a high level of potential for change. It’s an approach that has been tried and tested by many local Transition groups working to take action from the ground up, and helped them go on to make changes in their community.

Find out more: www.transitiontogether.org.uk

You can down the guide HERE

https://owgf.org/2024/08/04/transition-togethers-free-step-by-step-guide/

#Resilience #TransitionNetwork #climateChange #OWGF #StrongTowns #sustainability #Urbanism

In the early 2000’s Citizen Participation in Bologna Italy was at an all time low. Bureaucratic hurdles made it almost impossible for individuals to instigate civic ideas, with no clear pathways for implementing projects in communities. To address this issue, the city introduced radical new regulations aimed at simplifying and facilitating civic involvement. These changes enabled both citizens and private organizations to form collaboration pacts with the city to enhance public spaces. As well as these pacts, Bologna established innovation and collaboration labs throughout the city. The net result has been a massive boost in citizen engagement, with 100’s of new collaboration pacts being implemented and 10,000’s of people participating in projects. All over Bologna 100’s of public spaces will be improved though these pacts, thanks to the imagination and participation of citizens.

With so many benefits to an initiative like this, WHY IS EVERY CITY NOT DOING THIS? Benefits such as.

• Enhanced Civic Engagement: By involving residents directly in the planning process, the initiative encourages greater participation in civic matters. This helps ensure that the voices of diverse groups within the community are heard and considered.
• Improved Urban Planning: The collaboration between residents, local government, and other stakeholders can lead to more effective and tailored urban planning. Solutions are more likely to address real needs and preferences when developed with direct input from those affected.
• Fostering Innovation: District Labs serve as experimental spaces where new ideas and solutions can be tested. This environment promotes creativity and allows for innovative approaches to local challenges, from infrastructure to social services.
• Community Empowerment: The initiative empowers residents by giving them a direct role in shaping their environment. This can increase community pride, ownership, and responsibility towards local issues.
• Better Resource Allocation: By identifying and addressing the specific needs of different districts, resources can be allocated more effectively. This targeted approach helps ensure that investments are used where they will have the most impact.
• Increased Collaboration: The initiative encourages collaboration between various stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and civic organizations. This holistic approach can lead to more comprehensive and sustainable solutions.
• Social Cohesion: Engaging in collaborative projects can strengthen community bonds and foster a sense of unity among residents. Working together on shared goals helps build trust and cooperation within the community.
• Sustainable Development: The focus on local input and experimentation can lead to more sustainable and adaptive development practices. Solutions are more likely to be environmentally and socially sustainable when developed through a participatory process.

The Bologna Civic Imagination Office and District Labs initiative exemplifies how creative and participatory approaches can enhance urban development and community well-being.

In every city on this planet there are residents bursting with creativity and ideas on how to improve their public spaces. These ideas are not going to come to fruition in a “top down” bureaucracy. These ideas will never see the light of day, without a system in place for them gain public attention, discussion and possibly even implementation. In most cities there is just no sytem for this. If you want to improve the public realm then it’s just a trial an error process of contacting politicians, government workers, departments, councillors, journalists… Anyone and everyone in the hope that your idea might get through to “the powers that be.” There are funding grants, there are budget submissions and there are other approaches but no single system designed specifically for Participatory Urbanism, as they have in Bologna.

It was all born from a bench, because a citizen asked for permission to repaint a bench. We realised that in order to give permission to repaint the bench, we had to go through five different sectors of the municipal machinery — five different authorisations. We began to understand that something was not working.”

BOLOGNA MAYOR VIRGINIO MEROLA

I am left wondering, is this the big idea all Urbanists have to get behind? Is this the best way forward to improve the public realm. Should we all be writing to our MP’s, Senators and Councillors, promoting this idea, above all else? 

The City of Bologna’s Civic Imagination Office and District Labs have been involved in many notable projects that highlight the initiative’s success in fostering community engagement and urban innovation. Some types of projects that have been instigated include;

• Urban Gardens and Green Spaces: One of the key projects has been the development of urban gardens and green spaces across the city. These projects not only beautify the area but also promote community interaction and sustainable practices. Residents have been involved in designing and maintaining these spaces, enhancing local biodiversity and creating places for social gatherings.
• Public Art Installations: The Civic Imagination Office has supported various public art initiatives that involve local artists and residents. These installations are often created through collaborative efforts and reflect the unique character and culture of different districts in Bologna.
• Community-Made Playgrounds: In several districts, community members have come together to design and build playgrounds for children. These playgrounds are tailored to the needs and preferences of local families, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.
• Neighborhood Revitalization Projects: The District Labs have been instrumental in revitalising neglected or underused areas. Projects include the transformation of vacant lots into vibrant community spaces, as well as the renovation of historic buildings for new uses, such as community centers or co-working spaces.
• Local Food and Market Initiatives: The city has supported projects aimed at enhancing local food systems, including farmers’ markets and community kitchens. These initiatives promote local produce, support small businesses, and encourage healthy eating habits.
• Cultural Festivals and Events: The Civic Imagination Office has helped organize various cultural festivals and events that celebrate Bologna’s diverse communities. These events often involve residents in planning and execution, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange.
• Participatory Budgeting Projects: The city has implemented participatory budgeting processes where residents can propose and vote on local projects. This approach ensures that community needs and priorities directly influence how public funds are spent.

I think about Melbourne Australia, where I live. I think about urbanism projects I am working on. I think about wonderful people and organisation I am following and am connected with. The Melbourne pollinator corridor – Streets Alive Yarra – YIMBY Melbourne – Melbourne Regen Network – “Friends Of” …. Groups Cycling advocacy Groups… All of these people and orgs would benefit from a  Civic Imagination Office where they could present ideas. 

There is a lot more to this project than what I talked about above so I encourage everyone to go and do some further research. I’ve attached a few links below but there a ton more stuff out there on t’internet.

Bologna Cities of Service Case Study (This is a great overview)

Bologna, the City with a ‘Civic Imagination Office’

Fondazioneinnovazioneurbana.it

Images are from here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/170557963@N02/albums

So what do we think people, “is this the big idea all Urbanists should get behind?” 

Comments below…

Note:

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGFhttps://pixelfed.social/OWGF

https://owgf.org/2024/08/02/should-we-follow-bolognas-model-for-participatory-urbanism/

#Bologna #OWGF #ParticipatoryUrbanism #Regeneration #StrongTowns #Urbanism

The Melbourne Pollinator Corridor (MPC), is 8km community-driven wildlife corridor that will link 2 large green patches that run along the Birrarung (Yarra River), Westgate Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

The MPC focusses on native bees and other native pollinating insects, with the aim to bring 18,000 indigenous plants in 200 gardens by the end of 2024. It has been designed within local council constraints and with over 20 scientists and specialists. So far, they have turned over 480 square metres of barren public land into gardens filled with critters and beauty.

This is the first wildlife corridor like this in Australia, so not only are we seeing a project that will strengthen local flora and fauna and help everyone in the local community but it is also creating a precedent. And it’s all thanks to one person, Emma Cutting.

Guided by her profound concern over the increasing dominance of concrete and asphalt in urban environments and the urgent calls to action by leaders like Sir David Attenborough, Emma founded The Heart Gardening Project.

The Heart Gardening Project (THGP) exists for several crucial reasons:
Firstly, there is a significant amount of public land that remains unused and neglected. THGP aims to transform these spaces into vibrant, purposeful areas that benefit the community.

Secondly, amidst the escalating Climate Crisis, there remains a glaring lack of efforts to expand diverse public plantings. THGP seeks to address this by engaging communities, enhancing biodiversity, and tackling urban environmental challenges.

Thirdly, the rapid decline of native pollinators underscores the urgent need to restore habitats that support their survival. THGP focuses on replanting native species to create vital habitats for these essential creatures.

Lastly, the pervasive disconnection from both nature and other humans contributes to widespread mental health issues such as loneliness and depression. THGP recognizes the healing potential of nature and aims to reconnect individuals with their environment and community through gardening initiatives.

The Heart Gardening Project has set ambitious goals for its future endeavors. By the end of 2024, THGP plans to complete 200 gardens within the MPC zone, paving the way for its expansion across Melbourne. Integral to this expansion is the establishment of robust maintenance systems to ensure the longevity and vitality of these green spaces. Using the Melbourne Pollinator Corridor (MPC) as a proving ground, THGP aims to showcase to communities across Australia, and globally, how urban biodiversity can be significantly enhanced through thoughtful public plantings. This initiative not only aims to bolster native pollinator populations but also serves as a model for creating similar pollinator corridors elsewhere.

Over the next decade, THGP intends to engage in citizen science initiatives linked to the MPC, exploring connections between indigenous cultural knowledge and western scientific practices. This approach not only enriches understanding but also fosters inclusive environmental stewardship. Moreover, THGP seeks to influence policy and guidelines pertaining to street gardening, advocating for supportive frameworks that encourage community involvement and sustainable practices. By fostering widespread participation and demonstrating tangible positive impacts, THGP aims to catalyze meaningful change in biodiversity conservation and mental health improvement on a global scale.

Designing a shared, open-ended process
The Melbourne Pollinator Corridor consists of small street gardens created, managed, and maintained by local residents. Together, these gardens form a collaborative corridor that continues to expand in scope. This decentralized yet coordinated approach necessitates openness and flexibility. Rather than imposing a rigid design. The project offers loose frameworks that define the overall scope of the corridor while guiding individual garden designs.

Instead of a detailed masterplan, the corridor is conveyed through a diagrammatic drawing that captures the project’s ambition. This plan outlines a structure that facilitates coordination across gardens, enhancing the collective vision greater than the sum of its parts. At the garden level, Emma has developed design templates that provide guidance while encouraging personal interpretation – a concept she refers to as “tailored participation.” This approach allows each participant to contribute uniquely to the project.

Emma emphasizes that the project aims to support diverse approaches to gardening, fostering learning and encouraging community engagement. She explains, “The project is about recognizing that each person will approach their garden differently, empowering individuals to understand and contribute to the initiative.” By remaining open to interpretation, the project enables participants to shape their own experiences of involvement.

Overall, the MPC thrives because all gardens adhere to a shared set of principles and values, while remaining adaptable to evolving needs and forms throughout the project’s progression.

New modes of documentation, new ways of seeing the built environment
Central to the project’s community-led approach are user-friendly and inclusive documentation methods that make design and technical knowledge accessible to non-designers. One such example is the Melbourne Pollinator Corridor Handbook, written by Emma, who describes it as “the handbook I wish I had years ago when I started my journey into street gardening and urban biodiversity.” The handbook serves as a visionary document, a field guide, and a comprehensive technical reference.

The handbook connects various fields of knowledge to create a comprehensive guide tailored for non-designers or gardeners. Emma consulted with over 30 scientists and specialists – including conservationists, entomologists, native bee experts, and ecologists – to compile the information. This resulted in an accessible eight-step process for planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining projects. The handbook also features extensive plant lists, supplier information, and advice on navigating regulatory challenges. Despite its complex content, it maintains approachability through a storytelling tone and supportive illustrations.

I finally got my hands on a copy of the Melbourne Pollinator Corridor Handbook, and immediately read it cover to cover. While it is specifically written for people involved the MPC it is packed full of information about bees and pants and chock full of great information for anyone interested in doing similar.

You can order your copy here: https://theheartgardeningproject.org.au/shop/p/melbourne-pollinator-corridor-handbook

Check out The Heart Gardening Project web site, where you can donate to the project and find out more. https://theheartgardeningproject.org.au/

All Images via The Heart Gardening Project web site.

https://owgf.org/2024/06/27/melbourne-pollinator-corridor-restoring-biodiversity-in-urban-landscapes/

#Bees #Biodiversity #ClimateAction #Environment #Melbourne #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #Urbanism

I really like competitions like this. Where the banks, the developers and any paid politicians are taken out of the equation and people are free to dream of a better future.

Decoding Density was an invitation sent out to everyone, everywhere, encouraging them to envision new possibilities for apartment forms, of six storeys and above, while addressing two pressing issues of our time: climate change and housing affordability. A key aspect of the brief was to challenge Vancouver’s planning code and other regulations.

My favorite concept was Towerhouse. Not only for its incorporation of greenery, but also for its exploration of community, place-making, integration into existing suburbs, and connectivity with the neighborhood through walking and cycling.

“Does it feel like a holiday home?” is a criteria I judge a lot of urbanism buy these days. After all, isn’t that what we want from our urban environment? We want to feel like we are living our best lives in a pleasant and friendly place. And on that criteria I feel like this project also succeeds.

The Micro-Hood submission gives off a lot of Solar Punk vibes with its illustrations. Micro-hood’s position is that our neighborhoods could be made better by supporting apartment buildings on single lots, that communities can be more resilient by sharing in ownership and that the way we built yesterday needs a reset.
Their proposal imagines re-hashing the building rules, constructing with pre-fabricated
panels and the creation of a Community Land Trust to bring a resilient, lower-carbon
community to life.

Community Land Trusts are something I am hearing a lot about these days and encourage people to read up on them, if they are not familiar with the concept. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Community_land_trust

LOTS! OF BUNDLES is another submission that also caught my eye. “Community-led housing is a way for resident collectives to self-organize and build cohousing. Cohousing offers an actionable solution to housing affordability: a combination of private units and shared spaces that fosters mutual aid and reduces housing costs.”

This part I thought was a really interesting concept within the submission Replan the Ground Level as a Common House. “Community-led housing projects include a common house: a collection of spaces shared by all residents as an extension of private domestic space. Our proposal reimagines the ground floor as a common house, creating a more porous relationship between the building, site, and neighborhood. Because a common house celebrates social activity and the use of outdoor space, our proposal loosens setback restrictions to take advantage of more buildable area on a lot, while carving out nooks of outdoor space that invites the activation of side and back alleys. This creates new lateral connections across the block through greenways that support mobility and walkability.“

Anti-community community deserves an honorable mention. They introduce their presentation as: “We are designers, artists, renters, movers, activists, guests, and neighbors. We are not architects, urban planners, or interior designers.
We are neighbors who complain and who have been complained about.
We know nothing about engineering and codes and by-laws. But we know we don’t enjoy the endless cycles of bureaucracy that limit true creativity
and agency.”
I really appreciate the whole down to earth attitude of this submission.

While the competition is addressing specific issues with planning regulations in Vancouver, most of the other ideas are valid the world over.

You can see the full competition here: https://urbanarium.org/decoding-density

And download PDF’s here: https://urbanarium.org/sites/default/files/2024-06/Decoding%20Density%20Publication%20DIGITAL.pdf

Be Inspired!

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGFhttps://pixelfed.social/OWGF

https://owgf.org/2024/06/16/decoding-density/

#Architecture #LandscapeArchitecture #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #SolarPunk #StrongTowns #sustainability #Urbanism

Another wonderful not-for-profit conservation organisation that protects ecosystems and wildlife across Australia.

There are close to 2,000 animals and plants on Australia’s threatened species list. Bush Heritage steps in where they are needed most. On the ground, working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the agricultural sector to make sure any impact is deep, sustainable and collaborative.

Their story started in 1991, in the Liffey Valley of Tasmania. Environmentalist Bob Brown purchased two forest blocks to protect them from logging, and a passionate community was born. From those first few hundred hectares of land, they have grown into a leading national organisation. Now, they protect millions of hectares of land across Australia through a network of reserves, and in partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other landholders.

To achieve their goals Bush Heritage uses three Impact models.

Buying land – They own properties that have been bought, gifted or bequeathed to them. Thanks to generous supporters they own 44 reserves covering over 1.4 million hectares.
Aboriginal partnerships – Whenever they buy land we seek to engage with the Traditional Owners to ensure they maintain access and a connection to Country. They also invest in partnering with Aboriginal groups who are themselves landowners – often of vast estates.
Natural capital in agriculture – With 58% of Australia used for agricultural production, they are exploring how to protect more land and partnering with willing farmers. They aim to have an influence over 10 million hectares of agricultural land by 2030.

These models are being used to deepen and double their impact by 2030 – protecting, restoring and regenerating a total of 30 million hectares of land (an area larger than the state of Victoria).

Images Via Bush Heritage Comms or see ALT text

Conservation science

Like all conservation organisations much of their work involves education and communication. Expanding the reach, impact and awareness of their scientific activities, through programs such as the Scientist in Residence, Healthy Country Fellowships and Internships.

“We approach science in a way that embodies respect and encourages a richer outcome – a ‘right-way science approach’. Blending knowledge systems and approaching collaborative work with our partners the ‘right-way’ can build trust, relationships and culture for everyone involved, while delivering better outcomes.”

If you want to see their work in person, you can choose from Self-guided day visits, camping stays & guided trips: at their Boolcoomatta Reserve, SA. Carnarvon Station Reserve QLD. Charles Darwin Reserve WA. Charles Darwin Reserve WA. Liffey Valley Reserves, TAS. Reedy Creek Reserve, QLD
And if you can’t get to any of those you get a tiny feel for things with their virtual tours. HERE & HERE

Bush Heritage also do a podcast too, which not only talks about their projects and their work but has some really nice human interest stories in their too. https://www.bushheritage.org.au/news/audio/big-sky-country

And if that’s not enough, there is a quarterly newsletter / magazine called Bushtracks.
Which you can sign-up for and and get fresh copies delivered straight to your inbox.

Check out loads more about them on their web site. Especially the HOW TO HELP page.
See their impact report, read one of their many stories or watch a video or two
www.bushheritage.org.au

https://owgf.org/2024/06/12/bush-heritage-australia/

#Australia #Biodiversity #conservation #Environment #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF #Regeneration #Rewilding

This video explores the line between utopian ideals and dystopian realities. These fictional scenarios might not be as far removed from our own reality as you think. Discover the architectural and social designs that subtly influence our everyday lives, often without our conscious awareness.
#15minuteCities #Utopia #Dystopia #OWGF #SolarPunk #Urbanism #Regeneration #WalkableStreets
https://nebula.tv/videos/stewarthicks-real-cities-are-turning-into-scifi-dystopias/

Here’s an interesting project, imagining a Forest City of the future in Gabon, Central Africa, a country rich for its forests, rivers and biodiversity.

Like all developing countries, their challenge is to decide whether they want to follow the principles of industrial cities or they want invent an ecological model that attracts talented people and inspires the world.

In this project, architecture practice Built by Associative Data, investigate how such a city might look and how it might function. They dive into the structure of the city, development patters, circular economy thinking, what a forest based economy may be like and much much more.

The city is designed to grow following natural principles developing a new type of linear branch city where all neighborhoods are adapted to their environment. The city would create mixed-use productive communities where people can live work and play in an environment connected to the world where nature will inspire new human habitat.

The Forest City Project faces the challenge of inventing how to inhabit the planet and making the fight against climate change a reality. Buildings will be built using local wood and they will be energy self-sufficient and will recycle their waters to produce food and vegetation.

While all this sounds great and looks amazing, I was left wondering if this was at all possible and would harvesting all these trees be a good idea? This question was asked in a recent BBC Podcast “Can We Build a Better World with Wood?” There is a lively debate between advocates of logging for building and those opposed. Michael Ramage of Cambridge University explains how the development of Cross-Laminated Timber makes it possible to build pretty much any building with wood while Tim Searchinger of Princeton University argues that turning forests into construction material has a high carbon cost for the planet.

The outcome wasn’t really clear. For me the answer was yes, but only if we do logging and forest management better. If we plant the right species, in the right way and harvest and replant in a more considered manner. There can absolutely be no logging of old growth forest. And this is probably not a panacea for all of our habitat needs.

What the Forest City does give us is another way we can think about our cities, that is more sustainable and more connected to the environment.

You want watch a short video on the project from one of the Architects HERE

The architecture practice, Built by Associative Data, website is HERE

Note:

This post was created in #WordPress and can be viewed in the #Fedivers at: @[email protected]

OWGF has a Fediverse companion profile at: https://mastodon.world/@OWGF

OWGF is also on #Pixelfed here: https://pixelfed.social/OWGFhttps://pixelfed.social/OWGF

https://owgf.org/2024/02/20/the-worlds-first-forest-city/

#Africa #Architecture #Biodiversity #climateChange #ClimateChange #Environment #ForestCity #forests #nature #OWGF #SolarPunk #Urbanism

I love the lessons from Cuba section in this video, which shows how we can transition to a more sustainable way of life. #OurChangingClimate #EcoSocialism #SolarPunk #ClimateCrisis #Regeneration #Socialism #CircularEconomy #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF
https://youtube.com/watch?v=DjUr2HwdHwg&feature=shared

This video is a really really good example of the Circular Economy in action. It’s proper, ground-up, thinking. It’s putting Recycling and Reusing at the very heart of every decision and every step. It’s about starting off on the right foot and staying on the right path.

Builder Robbie Neville starts this video by saying “This industry was built on unbridled destruction and consumption of natural resources (what we are doing) starts with just understanding what we already have. We’re not even scratching the surface of that.”

How true is that? Reusing, in the building industry, is almost non existent. Robbie shows us in this video what can be achieved, if we make reusing an integral part of the construction industry. As well as thinking of climate change and social justice, every step of the way.

[Notes that accompany the video] Starting out as a builder, Robbie Neville noticed a truly shocking amount of building waste headed to landfills around Australia with no thought given to how it could be used. So he started salvaging it himself, and so began Revival Projects. A multidisciplinary practice that exclusively operates with existing materials and sustainability in mind. Building Australia’s first inner-city timber mill, repurposing entire heritage brick buildings bit by bit, and saving mountains of still useful timber from demolition projects. Repurposing it into shopfronts, apartments, houses and everything in between, Robbie and Revival projects have built a life based on pushing the building industry outside its comfort zone. They live on the cutting edge of re-use and recycling in Australia, and are one of the few practices like them around the world.

“I have a dream of a demolition plan, where every single element on that page, noted for demolition, has an associated note or instruction around what is to become of those materials, how they’re to be handled, where they’re to go and how they might be repurposed, in buildings of any scale. There’s no way that you have a use for every single component of that building. But if you’ve reached a conclusion that you’re going to take accountability for those existing materials and how they handled, I expect we’ll see some really creative outcomes and collaborations.”

There are so many other cool ideas discussed in this video. Other great projects and initiatives Revival Projects are working on. The idea of reusing materials on site. Urban tree reclamation. There’s even an App! It all highlights how poorly we are doing, when it comes to reusing, recycling and sustainability. More importantly it shows us what can be done, how it can be done and the change in thinking that is needed. The idea that “its not waste, its a potentially valuable resource that just needs thought and consideration on how it can be used,” should inspire us all.

Visit their web site here: https://revivalprojects.com.au/

https://owgf.org/2023/12/24/revival-projects/

#CircularEconomy #DeGrowth #Melbourne #OWGF #Recycling #Reusing #SolarPunk #StrongTowns #Urbanism

I've written a post on Miyawaki Forests.
#MiyawakiMethod #Urbanism #OWGF #Regeneration #TreesOfMastodon #Biodiversity #SolarPunk #Permaculture
https://owgf.org/2023/11/26/miyawaki-forests-everywhere/

I've written a post on Miyawaki Forests.
#MiyawakiMethod #Urbanism #OWGF #Regeneration #TreesOfMastodon #Biodiversity #SolarPunk #Permaculture
https://owgf.org/2023/11/26/miyawaki-forests-everywhere/

I've written a post on Miyawaki Forests.
#MiyawakiMethod #Urbanism #OWGF #Regeneration #TreesOfMastodon #Biodiversity #SolarPunk #Permaculture
https://owgf.org/2023/11/26/miyawaki-forests-everywhere/

I've written a post on Miyawaki Forests.
#MiyawakiMethod #Urbanism #OWGF #Regeneration #TreesOfMastodon #Biodiversity #SolarPunk #Permaculture
https://owgf.org/2023/11/26/miyawaki-forests-everywhere/

I've written a post on Miyawaki Forests.
#MiyawakiMethod #Urbanism #OWGF #Regeneration #TreesOfMastodon #Biodiversity #SolarPunk #Permaculture
https://owgf.org/2023/11/26/miyawaki-forests-everywhere/

Great Video on #SolarPunk fronlm #DamiLee
#Urbanism #architecture #OurWonderfulGreenFuture #OWGF https://youtube.com/watch?v=UVlBmdvIC6s&feature=shared

Time to stop planning our #cities around #cars and start building them around people.
In #OurWonderfulGreenFuture we will have #TransportChoices not #CarDependence
#OWGF #Urbanism #BikeTooter #Trains #WalkableCities #15MinuteCities