Harvard Local

Harvard Local is a grassroots organization open to anyone interested in seeking local community solutions to the two major challenges of our times: global warming and the coming end of cheap fossil fuels. The organization was formed out of a concern for the potentially dramatic changes we will face, along with the belief that we must all be part of the solution.

For the last hundred years, fossil fuel energy, mainly petroleum and natural gas, has brought us the comforts of modern life. It has also brought dramatic environmental risks to our planet manifesting in climate instability and a compromised national foreign policy. Climate change is the number one challenge facing the future of "life as we know it". A growing number of geologists now believe that we may be nearing a global peak in oil production. Meeting future challenges requires actions at all levels of society - international, national, regional, state, and local. The local level is one where every individual can contribute and make a difference.

For such immense problems, why "Local"? Our fossil fuel dependence can be addressed by "re-localizing" much of what we do, being aware of the hidden energy costs in our daily lives, and finding sustainable alternatives. These are actions that will help us both in the transition to a non-oil economy, and in reducing carbon emissions that contribute to global warming. Harvard Local is an organization of citizens building community solutions. If we will all face similar problems, why not try to solve them together?

There is a sense of urgency to our actions. Much that we now depend on could change quickly. Surely, our children's lives will be significantly different from our own. Harvard Local is motivated to address the future now, when we have time and resources to apply.

At present, Harvard Local has begun activities in the following areas: Community Education, Home Energy Efficiency, Local Area Food, and Transportation. To explore these activities, please click one of the entries in the left panel.

For a fuller discussion of energy constraints, please click Understanding the Problem.

To join our online discussion, please go to the Discussion Group.

To contact Harvard Local, please send us email.