A global survey revealed that a third of people experience loneliness, with some countries ranking at up to 50%.
And not only are people statistically unhappy, our demand on Earth’s resources is unsustainable. Humanity currently use resources at a rate that is 50% faster than they are able to be regenerated by nature.
What if there was a better way? And what if you could help?
Keep reading to find out why we believe community building is the answer to sustainable living and solving loneliness.
1. Self-reliance
Building community fosters resilience and self-reliance by encouraging local food production, resource sharing, and cooperative ventures.
This reduces dependency on external sources and allows for the creation of a self-sustaining system and economy.
2. Knowledge and Skill Sharing Thanks to Sustainable Living
Communities serve as social hubs for sharing knowledge, skills, and wisdom, which is essential for sustainable living.
This collective knowledge helps members adapt to changing conditions and find innovative solutions to local problems.
Creating a culture of knowledge and skill sharing makes people feel like their voice is being heard and they have something to contribute, which has the bonus effect of boosting mental and emotional health.
3. Resource Efficiency
By pooling resources, communities can achieve greater efficiency in the use of energy, water, and materials. This collective approach to sustainable living reduces waste and enhances the overall quality of life.
Permaculture based design also maximises use of existing land in the community by taking a communal approach to farming and harvesting.
4. How Sustainable Living Can Promote Economic Stability
Local economies benefit from community-building efforts as they encourage local entrepreneurship, trade, and the development of complementary currencies.
This economic resilience helps insulate communities from global market fluctuations in energy prices, healthcare, and education.
5. Environmental Stewardship
Communities are better positioned to manage and protect local environments through collective action. This stewardship is critical for maintaining biodiversity, conserving natural resources, and mitigating environmental degradation.
Communal living leads to shared goals, and there is a power in numbers.
The mindful goals of sustainable living and reducing environmental impact are easier to implement in a community than as an individual.
6. Cultural Preservation and Innovation
Communities act as custodians of cultural heritage.
Preserving cultural practices and rituals allows communities to maintain connection with their roots and strengthen their identity, which contributes to a positive and stable society with a sense of belonging.
Communities also act as incubators for new cultural expressions, fostering creativity and innovation.
7. Pathways to Empowerment and Participation via Sustainable Living
Building community empowers individuals by giving them a voice in decision-making processes.
This participatory approach enhances democratic governance and social sustainability, and ensures that community needs and values are represented.
Having a community with deep bonds and relationships means that the members are better able to understand each others issues and challenges, leading to better decision-making for the greater good of the community.
8. Crisis Preparedness
In times of natural disasters or other emergencies, communities with strong social ties, structures, and resources are better prepared to respond effectively and recover more quickly.
A sense of shared resources means that regardless of what crisis befalls the community, there will never be lack or people going without as the community will naturally support each other.
As well as physical resource support, emotional and mental support from a community is immensely valuable in challenging times.
Community planning ensures ongoing attention and consideration to safety, social objectives, and environmental stewardship.
9. Mental and Emotional Health
Mental and emotional health is at an all-time low globally.
The social interactions and communal activities that come with community building provide emotional support and reduced feelings of isolation, contributing to overall mental health.
Having a community and social support network fosters a sense of belonging and purpose that is fundamental to well-being and leading an emotional sustainable lifestyle.
A consistent sense of community creates a safe space for open communication and for deep friendships to form.
10. Youth Engagement and Education
Community engagement plays a pivotal role in the well-being and development of young people.
It provides them with much-needed education, mentorship, and opportunities to participate in meaningful activities.
Local initiatives and schemes help to create a sense of responsibility for young people, preparing them for the working world.
It also provides an opportunity to prepare the next generation for sustainable living.
Communities can teach and guide young people in valuable skills such as farming, harvesting, animal care, and entrepreneurship.
Sustainable Living: Our Bottom-Line
By focusing on these aspects, communities can create resilient, sustainable, and thriving environments that are well-equipped to face the challenges of the future.
Our long-term vision at La Vita Sukha is to create a flourishing permanent community, fostering permaculture, relationship building, and sustainable living.