David Holmgren on how to become resilient in an energy descent future

Australian environmental designer, ecological educator and writer. He is best known as one of the co-originators of the permaculture concept with Bill Mollison. His latest project is RetroSuburbia is part manual and part manifesto. The book shows how Australian suburbs can be transformed to become productive and resilient in an energy descent future. It focuses on what can be done by an individual at the household level (rather than community or government levels). RetroSuburbia is a source of inspiration, introducing concepts and outlining patterns and practical solutions. It empowers people to make positive changes in their lives. As with David’s previous work, it is thought-provoking and provocative. If you are already on the path of downshifting and living simply, exploring RetroSuburbia will be a confirmation and celebration that you are on the right track and guide you on the next steps forward. If you are just beginning this journey, it provides a guide to the diversity of options and helps work out priorities for action.  For people concerned about making ends meet in more challenging times, RetroSuburbia provides a new lens for creatively sidestepping the obstacles. The book outlines options available to retrofitters in three ‘fields’ – the Built, Biological and Behavioural – along with speculation on the future and philosophical musings. Throughout the book, examples from David’s ‘Aussie St’ story and real life case studies support and enhance the main content. RetroSuburbia can be read as a whole, cover to cover, or can be dipped into according to your interests. LYRICS to the song Retrosuburbia: You say this way of living is way too hard Start a revolution in your backyard Be the change in the world that you wanna see What if you could stay right where you are No more wasting hours every day in a car What if you could make a living doing what you really love Retrofit suburbia Downshift through the gears Before the crash, be earlier thriving there for years Are you Ready? Are you Ready? Are you Ready? Ready for resilience What if you could suddenly be free of debt Leave behind your worries and your woes forget What if you were poor but the richest man you know Yes imagine being rich beyond your wildest dreams Cos you lived entirely within your means Saying you were happy already right where you are Retrofit suburbia Downshift through the gears Before the crash, be earlier thriving there for years Are you Ready? Are you Ready? Are you Ready? Ready for resilience You don't like the way we're living Build it for yourself Surrounded by abundance In happiness and health What if the world around you collapsed But you felt so relaxed Cos you'd reduced yourself years ago Now help all the rest Are you Ready? Are you Ready? Are you Ready? Ready for resilience Ready Are you Ready? Are you Ready? Ready for resilience