The last couple of years has seen a huge increase in the number of groups working to mitigate climate change and the effects of peak oil. The result is that in some each community has its own group working in relative isolation. Neighbouring towns/villages do not seem to know what the others are doing and some even advertise meetings for their residents only.
Groups find themselves in competition for funding and kudos. This breeds an air of suspicion and secrecy which is counter to the idea of community.
The retreat into the home or small community is an extreme reaction to the dual threats of climate change and the end of oil. It might feel safe and controllable but being too local isolates us from the exchange of ideas and the cooperation needed for sustainable living.
On a more practical level if we want to be truly self-sufficient in food then we need genetic diversity. It is no use a village, town or even a city having thriving grow your own groups that swops seeds within a membership from a small geographical area. To maintain genetic diversity there needs to be active contact with others on a county and regional basis.
The answer is more cooperation through a widening of perspectives and a realisation that the idea of the small self-sufficient, agricultural communities is more romantic myth than workable practicality. It ignores the large amount of hardship and cooperation with others in a similar position which was necessary for day-to-day survival.
Related posts:
