Integrating New Energy with Intention

Keuruu Ecovillage, Finland

Aware of their privilege of not being at the forefront of the climate crisis, the community often views it as an issue affecting distant places. As a result, much of their focus is on social issues, strengthening cohesion, and integrating traditional methods. The community practises many sustainable techniques that attract visitors and serve as a model for other farms and small communities. This could be a strategy to strengthen ties with neighbours in the region, helping build connections and system redundancy. They are still figuring out how to manage an influx of new people wanting to join the community, including refugees, knowing that integration takes time, the Finnish language is difficult to learn, and maintaining culture is important. At the same time, more people are needed to do the work, and new skills are welcome.