The term bioregionalism was popularized in the 1970s by California ecologist Raymond Dasmann and activist Peter Berg. The term refers to a geographical area defined by natural characteristics, including watersheds, landforms, soils, native plants and animals, and weather. It includes human beings as a species in the interplay of these features, and promotes an inhabitory attitude by which humans adapt themselves to the region in an appropriate way.
This installment of this workshop will explore the "Peak Oil" phenomenon, also referred to as the End of Cheap Oil or the Second Half of the Oil Age that has been gaining currency with rising oil prices. While economists generally believe that the market will moderate the effects of a declining oil supply by making investments in substitutes and alternatives more attractive, many people are very concerned that peak oil could bring about global recession and severely disrupt the supply chains upon which we rely. Reflecting this concern, there is now Peak Oil Caucus in the House of Representatives. In addition to explaining peak oil theory and its ramifications, this workshop will explore bioregional and community responses to peak oil and what we as citizens can do.
This workshop meets quarterly for those who want to deepen their bioregional awareness through attention to seasonal changes.