Cloughjordan Ecovillage: Modelling the Transition to a Low-Carbon Society

Abstract

Introduction As the objective of a low-carbon society by 2050 is fast becoming a key policy objective of countries around the world, there is an urgent need for public policy to be informed by examples of how this can be done. For example, a recent EU funded research project designed to identify the obstacles to and drivers of the transition to a low-energy society undertook an analysis of 1,700 projects relating to energy transition at the local level throughout Europe, 'so as to identify actual conditions that facilitate (or, conversely, hinder) a transition towards a post-carbon (or low-carbon) society' (Milescure, 2014: 7). Of the 90 anticipatory experiences initially identified, 23 were selected for a more detailed examination on the basis of a number of criteria including the success of the project, 'in terms of social recognition and excellent results (indicatively defined " post carbon ") from an energy and environmental point of view' (ibid.: 15). Among those selected was Cloughjordan Ecovillage in Ireland. The paper begins by describing the ecovillage and its historical genesis. It then outlines a framework which identifies the key factors that create the conditions for the transition to a low-carbon society. Subsequent sections examine in turn each of these sectors in the Cloughjordan ecovillage to identify the means through which the ecovillage community seeks to transition to a low-carbon society and its success in doing so. Particular attention is devoted to the model of governance that has been put in place and how this is working in practice. The paper ends by outlining the project to measure the ecological footprint of the ecovillage and to put in place a process to reduce this systematically with targets over a defined period. Conclusions are drawn about the lessons of the project for public policy towards transitioning to a low-carbon society at national and international level.