Bioregional

BedZED 2007

Bioregionalism is a political, cultural, and ecological system or set of views based on naturally defined areas called bioregions, or ecoregions. Bioregions are defined through physical and environmental features, including watershed boundaries and soil and terrain characteristics, rather than political boundaries. The concept emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with the natural characteristics of the local environment.

Principles of Bioregionalism

Bioregionalism advocates for a sustainable relationship between human communities and their local environments. Key principles include:

• **Localism**: Emphasizing local production and consumption to reduce ecological footprints.
• **Sustainability**: Promoting practices that do not deplete resources or harm natural systems.
• **Community**: Fostering strong, self-reliant communities that are closely connected to their local environment.
• **Ecological Awareness**: Encouraging a deep understanding of local ecosystems and natural processes.

History

The term "bioregionalism" was popularized in the 1970s by environmentalists such as Peter Berg and Ray Dasmann. They argued that political boundaries often do not align with ecological realities and that governance should be based on natural regions.

Bioregions

Bioregions are areas defined by natural characteristics rather than human-made borders. These regions often share similar plant and animal life, climate, and geographical features. Examples of bioregions include the Great Plains, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Mediterranean Basin.

Applications

Bioregionalism can be applied in various fields, including:

• **Urban Planning**: Designing cities and towns to be more in tune with their natural surroundings.
• **Agriculture**: Promoting local farming practices that are sustainable and ecologically sound.
• **Education**: Teaching students about their local environment and how to live sustainably within it.
• **Governance**: Creating policies that reflect the natural boundaries and characteristics of bioregions.

Criticisms

Critics of bioregionalism argue that it can be impractical to implement, especially in densely populated or highly industrialized areas. Others believe that it may lead to isolationism or parochialism, as it emphasizes localism over global cooperation.

See Also

• Sustainability
• Ecology
• Environmentalism
• Localism (politics)
• Watershed
• Ecoregion

Related Pages

• Peter Berg
• Ray Dasmann
• Great Plains
• Amazon Rainforest
• Mediterranean Basin