As a "peak aware" twenty something with parents within range of retirement, I've been persuading my family over the last five years to plan for a future with dramatically reduced energy supply. I want us to start a long-term transition to green -- and more importantly, I want us to live in a community that's green or at least capable of making a similar transition. (We currently live in hot pink Miami.) I don't just mean I want to feel good about recycling, but I don't quite mean an intentional community like Earthaven, which would be a step too far for my family. How can I find a community that has the elements necessary for localized, self-sufficient living? Search advice and specific endorsements are both welcome. [more inside]
posted on Jun 4, 2007 - 19 answers

For three years, I've been encouraging my family to think about relocating from our home in Miami to a community that is less dependent upon automobiles and other oil-enabled ways of life. I sold them on Asheville, North Carolina, and on the idea of building a green (or close to it) home. We're going up there in three weeks to look around and get a better feel, and I want this plan to be well-considered! Help me think through the important elements of a successful home-relocation scouting trip, to Asheville specifically or just in general, as well as the larger questions involved. [more inside]
posted on May 28, 2007 - 22 answers