We live in an oil-dependent world, and have got to this level of dependency in a very short space of time, using vast reserves of oil in the process without planning for when the supply is not so plentiful. Most people don't want to think about what happens when the oil runs out (or becomes prohibitively expensive), but
"The Transition Handbook" shows how the inevitable and profound changes ahead can have a positive effect.
They can lead to the rebirth of local communities, which will generate their own fuel, food and housing. They can encourage the development of local currencies, to keep money in the local area. They can unleash a local 'skilling-up', so that people have more control over their lives. "The Transition Handbook" is the manual which will guide communities to begin this 'energy descent' journey. The argument that 'small is inevitable' is upbeat and positive, as well as utterly convincing.
Foreword by Richard Heinberg Introduction Part 1 The Head: understanding peak oil Part 2 The Heart: positive visions of a post peak oil future Part 3 The Hands: a manual for developing the transition town model.
Rob Hopkins has long been aware of the implications of our oil-dependent status, and has been energetically campaigning to increase awareness of its impact. Having successfully created an Energy Descent Plan for Kinsale in Ireland which was later adopted as policy by the town council, Rob moved to Totnes in Devon and initiatied Transition Town Totnes, the first UK town to address the issues of life after peak oil.
If your town is not yet a Transition Town, here is guidance for making it one. We have little time, and much to accomplish - Richard Heinberg, Post Carbon Institute, Santa Rosa, California, author of Power Down.