Why we love EcoVillage
Currently we are not living in a EcoVillage but have a networks of neighbors and community that we trade, share resources and help eachother out with problem solving. We have been diving into the concept for years and Alan has lived for 2 years in a EcoVillage Project called Las Cañadas.
Jean filmed the project in 2017 as she stayed there studying permaculture & ecovillage:
The concept of sharing resources within ecovillages reflects the village tribe model of living that our ancestors practiced, fostering a deep sense of community and interconnectedness.
Historically, tribal societies thrived on the principles of cooperation, mutual support, and collective responsibility, where resources such as food, shelter, and knowledge were shared for the benefit of all members. In ecovillages, this ancestral wisdom is resurrected, as communities prioritize collaboration over competition. By pooling resources, skills, and efforts, residents can reduce individual burdens, enhance resilience against external challenges, and create a sustainable lifestyle that mirrors the symbiotic relationship humans once had with each other and their environment. This shared approach not only strengthens bonds among community members but also nurtures a culture of trust and inclusivity, echoing the foundational values of our forebears and allowing us to address contemporary issues like climate change and social isolation together. Ultimately, by embracing this village tribe concept, ecovillages provide a blueprint for a more harmonious and sustainable way of life, rooted in the timeless principles of cooperation and community.
From our observation and travel this is the best model of cooperative and ecovillage and CoOP that we have experienced first hand.
Las Cañadas: A Model for Ecovillage Study in Mexico
Las Cañadas, located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, is an inspiring example of a community that embodies the principles of sustainable living, ecological responsibility, and social cohesion. As a model for ecovillage study, Las Cañadas illustrates how intentional communities can harmonize human needs with environmental stewardship, reflecting both traditional practices and modern ecological design.
Background
Founded in the early 1990s, Las Cañadas emerged from the vision of a group of individuals seeking a sustainable alternative to conventional living. The community was built on the principles of permaculture, ecological building, and a commitment to living in harmony with nature. Set against the stunning backdrop of Jalisco's mountainous terrain, the community's design integrates the natural landscape, local flora, and existing ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and resource conservation.
Key Features
Sustainable Architecture
Homes in Las Cañadas are constructed using eco-friendly materials, with designs that take advantage of natural ventilation, passive solar energy, and rainwater harvesting systems. This approach minimizes the ecological footprint of each dwelling while ensuring that residents can live comfortably and sustainably.
Community Participation
The collaborative spirit of Las Cañadas is evident in the participatory decision-making processes that engage residents in shaping community policies, infrastructure, and initiatives. Regular meetings and workshops foster a sense of belonging and empower individuals to contribute their skills and ideas.
Agriculture and Food Security
A central aspect of Las Cañadas is its emphasis on food sovereignty through permaculture practices. Residents cultivate diverse crops, engage in organic farming, and share surplus harvests, ensuring food security and reducing reliance on external food sources. This not only promotes sustainability but also strengthens community bonds through shared labor and resources.
Renewable Energy
The community actively invests in renewable energy sources, including solar and wind, to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. This commitment to clean energy reflects a broader ecological ethos and prepares residents for a sustainable future.
Cultural Practices
Las Cañadas embraces traditional Mexican cultural practices, integrating them into community life. Events and rituals celebrating local heritage foster a sense of identity and continuity, enriching the community’s social fabric.
Lessons for Ecovillage Study
Las Cañadas serves as a compelling case study for other aspiring ecovillages and sustainable communities. Key lessons include:
Integrating Traditional Knowledge
The combination of modern sustainable practices with traditional ecological knowledge can enhance community resilience and sustainability.
Collective Resource Management
By pooling resources and skills, communities can achieve greater efficiency and support individual well-being, much like ancestral village structures.
Participatory Governance
Encouraging community involvement in decision-making fosters a strong sense of ownership and accountability, creating a more robust and resilient community.
Emphasizing Education and Awareness
Informing residents and visitors about sustainable practices, permaculture principles, and ecological ethics cultivates an informed citizenry committed to stewardship of the environment.
Conclusion
Las Cañadas stands as a powerful example of how communities can thrive based on principles of sustainability, cooperation, and ecological responsibility. By studying and learning from this ecovillage model, other communities can develop strategies for sustainable living that honor both modern ecological principles and the wisdom of our ancestors. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, Las Cañadas offers valuable insights into creating harmonious living environments that connect people, culture, and nature.
Currently we are designing a EcoVillage design for one of our clients and we are studying for inspiration and design practice the following three EcoVillages community
Ecovillage Design: A Path to Sustainable Living
As the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, the concept of ecovillages has emerged as a beacon of sustainable living and community resilience. Ecovillages are holistic communities that prioritize ecological, social, and economic sustainability, often integrating innovative design principles and techniques. This article will explore three prominent ecovillage projects: Auroville in India, Crystal Waters in Australia, and Rise Costa Rica, showcasing their unique approaches to fostering sustainable lifestyles.
Auroville: The City of Dawn
Established in 1968, Auroville is a pioneering ecovillage located in Tamil Nadu, India. Founded on the vision of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, Auroville aims to be a universal town, transcending national boundaries. The ecovillage is home to over 3,000 residents from various cultures and backgrounds, living in harmony with one another and the environment.
Auroville promotes sustainable agricultural practices and renewable energy sources, such as solar power and biogas. The community's design incorporates ecological architecture, with buildings made from local materials and incorporating natural ventilation and lighting. Water conservation techniques, such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling, further enhance their sustainable approach. By fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, Auroville exemplifies the potential for ecovillages to address global challenges through community-focused living.
Crystal Waters: A Model of Permaculture
Located in Queensland, Australia, Crystal Waters is an ecovillage established in 1991 that showcases the principles of permaculture. Designed by ecologist Robyn Francis, the community is a blueprint for sustainable living, integrating ecological design with social and economic viability.
Crystal Waters consists of individual homes thoughtfully designed to minimize resource consumption and integrate with the natural landscape. The community emphasizes organic farming, and residents actively engage in permaculture practices, growing their food and supporting local ecosystems. Shared spaces, such as community gardens and common houses, foster social interaction and collaboration.
In addition to its ecological initiatives, Crystal Waters has a strong focus on education, offering various courses and workshops on sustainable living practices. The community serves as an inspiring model for others seeking to implement permaculture principles in their own lives and neighborhoods.
Rise Costa Rica: Embracing Regenerative Development
Rise Costa Rica, an innovative ecovillage project situated in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, is focused on regenerative development. Established with a vision to create a sustainable and vibrant community, Rise incorporates principles of holistic design that prioritize environmental restoration and social equity.
The ecovillage features a variety of eco-friendly housing options, utilizing sustainable building materials and technologies. Residents benefit from a shared commitment to sustainability, participating in community-led initiatives such as reforestation projects, organic agriculture, and biodiversity conservation.
Rise Costa Rica also emphasizes education and capacity building, offering programs that empower individuals and families to adopt sustainable practices in their lives. This approach not only fosters a thriving community but also reconnects residents with the natural environment, making them active stewards of the land.
Ecovillages like Auroville, Crystal Waters, and Rise Costa Rica illustrate the potential for innovative design and community engagement in creating sustainable living environments. By prioritizing ecological integrity, social cohesion, and economic resilience, these projects provide valuable lessons for individuals and communities around the globe. As we strive to address the pressing environmental challenges of our time, ecovillage design emerges as a pivotal strategy for fostering a sustainable future.