The Transition Movement is currently active in 20 cities, towns, neighborhoods, and universities throughout Colorado, and is continuing to grow rapidly. How can these grassroots efforts best help to strengthen local economies while regenerating natural capital?

This introductory presentation will detail the Transition perspective on the economy and feature examples of what Transition Initiatives in Colorado and around the world are already doing to build greater community resilience and self-reliance. You will have an opportunity to share your own insights and ask questions of the presenters. This session will also serve as a precursor to a World Cafe style group brainstorming session later in the day.

“Given that thus far, national governments seem to be still wedded to the belief that ‘fiscal stimulus’ (i.e. throwing money at the problem and hoping it will go away) will work, it falls to those at the more local level to start considering their own responses and solutions. How the economic contraction will unfold in particular regions, towns and villages is best considered by the people and communities affected. Can we help build a new economics that has equity, environmental sustainability and human well being as its core objectives? It could mean more regional and localized businesses, focused on the area’s natural strengths. Where can communities find investment to develop new skills more relevant to a zero fossil fuel future? While many employers struggle with the realities of the credit crunch and peak oil, which types of businesses in the region could expand?” - From the Dutch Economics Addition to The Transition Handbook