The book is divided into two parts. The first part describes the traditional life of the people in Ladakh before the influx of Western ideas and material goods, highlighting their high social status, strong family and community ties, and harmonious relationship with the environment. The second part documents the changes brought about by modernization, including environmental destruction, social disruption, and economic instability. Norberg-Hodge argues that the one-dimensional view of progress favored by economists and development experts has masked the negative impacts of economic growth and led to a misunderstanding of the situation of rural communities. The book ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that there is room for optimism and growth as people strive to preserve their cultural heritage in the face of globalization.
Local is Our Future builds upon the themes of Ancient Futures, further exploring the interconnectedness of local economies, culture, and the environment. Norberg-Hodge argues that globalization's homogenizing forces undermine local traditions and ecological balance. The book emphasizes the importance of supporting local producers, fostering community resilience, and prioritizing human well-being over economic growth. It offers practical strategies for creating more sustainable and fulfilling lives within local contexts. Local is Our Future provides a roadmap for building a more just and ecologically sound future.
What does it mean that Hollywood and the entertainment industry are increasingly relying on AI and consumer data to make decisions about the stories that get funded and produced? How might we expand our perspectives on privilege so that the things we aspire to as being “better off” are more deeply rooted in what can truly enrich life, community, and our interconnectedness?
In this episode, we are honored to welcome Nathalie Kelley, an actress of Indigenous Peruvian descent who is passionate about using her gifts as a storyteller to advocate for a variety of issues — from regenerative fashion, systemic justice for Indigenous peoples, wilderness conservation, regenerative farming and the healing power of plants and fungi.
Join us in this raw and heartfelt conversation as we explore the ways that the media, films, and stories we engage with add up to shape our collective cultural values and relationships — with each other and the more-than-human world.
We invite you to…
Green Dreamer: Seeding change towards collective healing, sustainability, regeneration 
