Insight and inspiration in turbulent times.
Like so many people and organizations, we at Post Carbon Institute have been reflecting and recalibrating since November 5th. Wherever you fall on the political spectrum, Trump’s victory, along with his campaign pledges and cabinet nominations, should be an indication that the status quo is in the rearview mirror if not actually crumpled and smoking on the side of the road.
Increasingly, it seems that the ongoing spread of bird flu among cattle and the possible evolution of a strain that can be transmitted between humans will be the biggest story of 2025. I hope I’m wrong.
Today, Nate is joined by local organizer and activist Christian Sawyer, to discuss how he’s built a pro-social community in rural Arizona. Christian emphasizes the power of local collaboration and demonstrates how the cultivation of social capital builds resilience in the face of challenges, as well as creates better lives for those who live in the community.
Someone once told me in reference to a hurricane in Florida that all over the news you see what a tragedy it is. News shows show the destruction and the horrors. But, this person said, remember to look for the helpers—helping, doing their work. The same is true now. Look for the helpers. They’re doing their work.
All the recent talk about government Bitcoin reserves has gotten me thinking about what happens when governments speculate.
I light the candles in the dark room as a pledge, to be honest with myself and truthful with others. To do no harm. To create a safe haven, a sanctuary. To stay present. To listen harder. To act with intention. To shine my own light into the darkness no matter how faint it might be.
I’ve no desire to make strong claims about what is achieved by serving mince pies to neighbours and strangers, but I will say that, from these humble, stumbling experiments in convivial economics, I am learning things that I would not have caught sight of, had I tried to do all my thinking through books and screens and the kind of conversations that come with footnotes
As you continue along your journey in fighting against the climate crisis, use whatever resources or privileges you have not just to advance positive change but also to make sure those who that change will most impact are actively in the room and are being listened to.
We don’t need to save the world, but we might want to think about saving ourselves. No, not think, do. We need to do more and think less and maybe not order anything at all.
In a “wellbeing economy”, government policies, business activities, and citizens’ behaviour are aimed at meeting our physical, social, and spiritual needs within planetary boundaries. It doesn’t mean we’re anti-growth; we’re just more selective about it.
Imagine a bold global policy mandating regions to mobilize every citizen to plant just one tree per year. With a global population exceeding 8 billion, this simple act would translate to planting over 8 billion trees annually—far exceeding the current rate of loss and driving progress toward restoration goals.
If we want to bring universal school meals to all children, regardless of income, it’s going to take a combination of imagination, tolerance for criticism, and a shift in how we consider this issue.
