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February 22, 2022
Global localisation movement
It’s easy to forget about, or not even to be aware of, the wider networks and movements that exist to support the smallest, hyper-local community groups. Just getting on with the day to day job can be all consuming, but sometimes it’s encouraging to know that there are like minded people out there ready to offer support and advice. Working with Scotland’s many community networks, the Community Learning Exchange helps to make connections with like minded groups across the country. And beyond Scotland, it’s worth remembering there’s a global network of localised action to connect with too.
Localization – is it the solution? See Local Futures
Let’s imagine a very different world, one in which most of your food comes from nearby farmers who ensure food security year round, in which children are free to explore their world safely under the watch of neighbors who you trust.
Imagine the money you spend on everyday goods continuing to recirculate in the local economy. Imagine local businesses providing ample, meaningful employment opportunities.
Economic localization can make these visions a reality for all.
Localization is about bringing the economy back to a human scale. It is the process of building economic structures that allow the goods and services a community needs to be produced locally and regionally whenever possible. This can strengthen community cohesion and lead to greater human health and material well-being, all while reducing pollution and degradation of the natural world.
Localization isn’t about ending all trade. Communities can still export surpluses once local needs are
met, and they can still import goods that can’t be produced locally. But localization allows local, regional, and even national self-reliance to replace dependence on distant, unaccountable corporations.
Localization does not mean total isolation. Localized economies are a reflection of particular cultures, resources and needs, but they still encourage the free exchange of knowledge and ideas across borders. In fact, localization requires international cooperation and collaboration to address global problems like climate change, and to forge agreements to scale back the rapacious power of global corporations and banks.