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Abstract:
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Ecovillages are communities dedicated to sustainable living and environmental
action. The ecovillage movement has spread globally since its grassroots beginning less
than thirty years ago. These communities offer solutions for sustainable living that are
slowly being spread into conventional society. These solutions are becoming more
relevant as the environment continues to decline due to human misuse. Ecovillage
communities are leading the way for sustainability. They establish unique social and
economic systems and provide an opportunity for significant lifestyle change with the
support of a community. Many of these communities are also providing education on
permaculture, organic farming, green building and other sustainable topics. Through
personal example and outreach efforts, ecovillages are introducing new and creative ideas
for sustainability. Linking the ideas presented by ecovillages to general society will
create broader opportunities for sustainable living. This thesis will examine the roots of
the ecovillage movement, and how it connects to sustainability and intentional
communities. It will investigate the design process for developing an ecovillage, along
with social and economic concerns. Sustainability techniques and conservation
initiatives will also be analyzed, followed by examples of communities from around the
globe who are putting these techniques into action. Finally, opportunities for ecovillage
philosophy to spread into global society will be explored. |
