In a message dated 10/14/00 9:06:52 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
<<On the other hand, our cultural practices are
a little insane. So.. do we need more self-reliance and
what is it?>>jeff
I'm glad you finally asked that question. Self-reliance is kindof like
perfection, its something to strive for. But just imagine if individuals and
communities could become self-reliant, relatively self-sustainable, and
autonomous, we would have much more leverage in dealing with governments and
corporations. We would also be creating a safety net for future disasters and
at the same time laying the groundwork for a decentralized, sustainable,
mutually cooperative future world. So many positive results from one focus,
self-reliance.
I believe in it so much, that about 2 years ago I started a non-commercial
website (www.bagelhole.org) just to develop an ever-improving list of
low-tech sustainable ideas/methods. Along the way, found a cutting edge way
for people to grow their own food with or without land (see <A
HREF="http://www.geocities.com/anttiveikko/HP/hp.html">M Y S I G H T</A>) for
some photos taken in May, 2000. Its the small version that is feasible for
most. The unique features of this aquaponics system is the black painted, 2
liter plastic bottles for vegetable holders, that hang in vertical columns.
The small version in the picture has only one column but it could fit 12-16
columns, at least 200 plants in a 4'x4'x6'high space. I mention all this,
because we need people to start doing this to be models for their locales and
to display over the internet to move the world toward critical mass in
self-reliance. Because, now, for the first time probably, it is feasible for
people to grow their own food in the cities.
This would be a big first step towards self-reliance. There are about 8
volunteers (we are all volunteers) working on the website to bring it up to
maximum effectiveness. This has been a real sticking point in this project,
and even with all these volunteers its going slowly. In any case, you are
welcome to help/collaborate if you see the logic in the importance of helping
individuals and communities move toward self-reliance. I would be very happy
to help anyone who wishes to build a vertical aquaponics.
Most Organically,
Tom O (aka Mofwoofoo Woofuaza)
San Francisco
