Creating an eco community is more than just constructing sustainable homes and green spaces; it’s about building a like-minded, harmonious community where residents share core values and beliefs.
Often, the concept of an “open community for everyone” may seem inviting, but in reality, it can dilute the essence of your eco-community.
To create a thriving and cohesive environment, it’s crucial to define and attract the right people who resonate with your vision.
The Pitfall of a Broad Invitation:
Inviting “everyone” may sound inclusive, but in the context of an eco community, it can lead to challenges. Not everyone shares the same level of commitment to eco-living or adheres to similar sustainability principles. The result can be a lack of alignment on essential issues, causing conflicts and hindering the community’s mission.
Defining Your Ideal Resident:
To create an eco community that thrives and truly embodies sustainable living, it’s essential to define your ideal resident. This involves specifying the values, principles, and lifestyle choices that your community promotes. Consider aspects such as:
Ages: Is this a community for an specific range of ages like retire community or open all ages?
Religion: Is this a religion community or all religions are wellcome?
Food: Do you want to clear a common ground around food? Vegan, vegetarian, organic?
Pets Policies: Are pets welcome in your community, and if so, are there specific guidelines for their care and behavior?
Water Consumption: What water-saving practices are in place? Is there a commitment to rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, or other water conservation measures?
Cars: How do you address transportation? Do you encourage carpooling, electric vehicles, or even a car-free community?
Visitors: What are the guidelines for visitors and how long they can stay? Is there a guest house or designated spaces for visitors?
Renters: Are rentals allowed, and if so, what are the criteria for tenants in terms of their commitment to eco-living?
School: Do you have an on-site or nearby eco-conscious school or educational program that aligns with your community’s values?
Lights: Is there a policy on outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution, or a mandate for energy-efficient lighting?
Fences: How does your community address property boundaries and privacy, while still promoting an open and welcoming environment?
Building policies: Is everyone allowed to build whatever they want and however they want?
And also… are you going to have a screen process?
Of course that all these things have to match with the size of your lots. If you allow to have horses in the community but you only have small lots, this will be a contradiction.
Crafting Your Invitation:
Once you’ve defined your ideal resident and established your eco-community’s core values and principles, it’s time to craft your invitation.
This invitation should be clear, concise, and authentic. Highlight what makes your community unique and why like-minded individuals should be part of it.
By defining your ideal resident and crafting your invitation in this way, you’re more likely to attract individuals who are genuinely committed to your eco-community’s values and vision.
This focused approach ensures a harmonious and flourishing community that shares a common commitment to sustainable living and a deep connection to your eco-community’s mission.
Remember, it’s not about excluding, but about creating an environment where like-minded individuals can thrive together.
