Simple Solutions for Sustainable Living

A community of active citizens is forming in BíoBío, connecting and collaborating for the transition of the region. Over the weekend 5-6 of July they put on a show; Expostsismo 2, the second feria for sustainable reconstruction post February 27th earthquake.

Almost 600 people attended the two day event in Chillan-Viejo, content to have connected to local people with simple solutions at hand. Everyone is reminded that sustainability is not a distant goal, nor something terribly complex and difficult, but starts in humble acts of responsibility, at the centre of sustainable economies; the household. If many people can make a small contribution starting at theif own front door, a wave of change arises.

As the rising tide of unsustainability overwhelms human communities everywhere, it becomes evident, yet again, that the task at hand is to mobilise people to participate, to demonstrate real possibilties, to empower people with tools and language, to connect and integrate groups and individuals, to swicth on citizen power. Many hands make light work it is said, and by experience the Expostsismo team learns that by putting our heads hearts and hands together we make the job of transformation lighter and more enjoyable. The difficult process of transition could be seen as an inspiring celebration.  

Over the two days groups of 15-20 people were given a guided tour of the installation, from building techniques of light clay straw, straw bale and cob, to efficient cooking and heating, waste management, capture, storage and treatment of water, and intensive food production in small spaces. There were many solutions on show including a manual shower system, drip irrigation, construcion with recycled pallets, and of course the improved media agua. Each stand was attended by a profesional trained in the design and implementation of the various technologies, and for the most part fluent in the language of resilience and eco-design.

The organising team from Cet Yumbel, Trabajo por un Hermano, Ecoescuela El Manzano, Oficios de la Tierra, Effecto Mariposa and Conama BíoBío were content with the event, and in particular the fertile connections formed with the collaborating organisations of Tierra Verde, Manzana Verde and Millaruka and Reacciona. Also this catalytic learning event would not be possible without the support of the team of Permacultors from regional centres of the Instituto Chileno de Permacultura in Pucon and Maipo...a real collaborative event. 

If anyone in Chile was looking for a genunie innovation, they need look no further than the event itself, and the people behind Expostsismo. You can find more fotos here. The next event Expostsismo Returns Home will be held in El Manzano in July.