From knowledge to action: Creating a social movement

Background/Question/Methods:

As communities globally strive to sustain their local environments they face considerable stewardship challenges including environmental racism, economic crises, climate change, socioeconomic conflicts, and environmental degradation. Is there a replicable model for sustainability that transcends borders?

In California, where people of color are the majority, there is a profound need for a multi-ethnic stewardship perspective. A local effort in 2007 in southern California is the basis for this replicable model. The community goal was to develop a system for solving and preventing air and water pollution issues while promoting environmental protection and restoration. A comprehensive environmental movement was implemented that mobilized both citizens and government to create a more just environment. Volunteers were trained from all backgrounds and ages, to create coalitions, to educate, and most importantly to give a voice to the voiceless. More than 3,000 community members were organized. And the coalition obtained the vote in favor from the California State Lands Commission, California State Coastal Commission and Governor's veto of the proposal of a Liquefied Natural Gas facility from the Largest Mining Corporation BHP Billiton. We saved our coast, air, community, and ecosystems.

This same model was implemented in 2010 in the small Maya village of Ixil, Yucatan Mexico where citizens became community leaders.  Participants received training about environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, sustainable agriculture practices, and health.  This training quickly identified local leaders and mobilized the community to create positive change.  The people of Ixil pioneered sustainable practices including reforestation, a water quality-monitoring program, permaculture, recycling, composting, and organized a two-day workshop for the prevention of Type ll diabetes. They received no governmental or agency support but now serve as a model for other villages. 

Results/Conclusions:

Although, these two communities varied dramatically in population, country, geography, and economic status the results indicate that model yielded very similar positive results. Knowledge and leadership can unite a community and empower individuals to take action for a better environment for the present and future generations.

Key words: Stewardship model, environmental education, and leadership