FairPlanet.Support
| tags: | #USA, #composting, #community building, #self-reliance, #sustainability, #zero-waste |
|---|---|
| located: | USA |
| by: | Yair Oded |
Centralisation of power, particularly economic and political ones, is undermining the progress and well-being of societies across the globe. Even in democratic countries, the tightening grip and expanding influence of corporate monopolies thwart the growth and prosperity of local communities and wreak havoc on our natural resources.
The Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) is a U.S.-based non profit organisation working to empower local communities across the United States to achieve economic and ecological independence and promote what it defines as ‘local self-reliance’.
“We believe that economic systems should embody democratic values, and that democracy can thrive only when economic power is widely dispersed. We believe that communities are healthiest when they possess the authority, capacity, and responsibility to chart their own course,” the organisation’s website reads.
ILSR’s initiatives include, among others, programs to strengthen local businesses and banking while tackling the encroachment of monopolies, advancing community composting, and reducing waste.
The organisation conducts workshops, produces podcasts, and runs support and education programs with other grassroots organisations, local activists, community members, and state officials across the U.S.
As part of its composting initiative, ILSR develops a national network of community composters by mapping and documenting their location, needs, progress, and providing training and support to help them grow and thrive.
ILSR also advocates for policy changes on the local, state, and federal to limit the consolidation of powers in the hands of monopolies and foster environments in which small local businesses can thrive.
Even if you’re not in the U.S. you may still benefit from ILSR’s extensive and informative reports and articles, podcasts, and webinars on issues such as how to accurately and sustainably compost food scraps or reduce waste in your community and turn waste into valuable products.
Please visit ILSR’s website for more information on its initiatives and partnerships, to access its resources, or pledge a donation.
Image: ILSR website
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