A Statement of our Aims and Principles as we set out on the road to Transition
The purpose of this document is to set out initial aims for the development of New Forest Transition. It is a working document that will be kept under continuous review so that the project can be suitably supported as it grows and changes
Vision
For the New Forest to be recognised as a leader in combating climate change and reducing dependency on fossil fuel, by making more efficient use of energy, taking advantage of clean and renewable energy, and producing locally more of what we consume.
Targets
To work with others to agree for the New Forest specific measurable targets, such as reduction in energy consumption, in use of fossil fuels and in carbon emissions, to be achieved within a given number of years.
Mission
These mission statements approach the issues by looking at the benefits that can be derived, rather than focus on any pain involved
To inform and influence households, visitors, communities, businesses and governmental and non-governmental organisations in and around the New Forest, the area embraced by the New Forest National Park Authority and the New Forest District Council:
To reduce the cost of energy by lowering consumption: by insulating buildings, by reducing unnecessary transportation, use of low energy appliances, low petrol-consumption vehicles, electric vehicles…
To reduce dependency on fossil fuels by using planet-friendly renewable sources of energy: wind, solar, ground heat, wave, tidal, biomass…
To move towards more resilient communities by building local skills in self-sufficiency: in energy production (micro-generation), in production and consumption of food and other goods, buying local, farmers’ and producers’ markets…
To reduce the cost and environmental impact of waste by minimising packaging, using eco-friendly materials, recycling…
To benefit from a more sustainable lifestyle by walking and cycling locally instead of driving, utilising the natural environment without damaging it, a healthy diet (less processed foods, more fresh seasonal foods) …
Principles
The activities undertaken need to be empowered by and consistent with a set of principles:
Inclusiveness – all are welcome to participate. There is not a master plan and all ideas should be considered on their merits
Independence - to encourage involvement by people of all beliefs and affiliations, the group will not be a part of or align itself exclusively with any political organisation or faith group
Open mindedness – recognition that our society’s endless pursuit of economic growth and GDP per person do not necessarily give rise to health and well-being, and to encourage alternative measures of success that do
Universal advantage – actions that we take to mitigate the effects of climate change and the scarcity of fossil fuels or food must, at minimum, not further disadvantage the poor and marginalised of the world, rather our actions should actively seek to advantage them
Environment – the environmental cost of social and economic policies must be taken into account. By caring for our environment, we seek to stimulate and establish a more healthy society
Community – the Transition process will most effective if it benefits from the commitment and enthusiasm of local people. It is an endeavour that must be borne out of the community and led by it
Responsibility/Accountability – the responsibility for taking action must remain with individuals. This is vital if the huge workload is to be successfully managed and spread. Individuals and groups within the organisation are accountable to themselves for their actions, successes and failures
Networking – existing networks and organisations should be engaged wherever possible, to gain the advantage of their experience and their involvement
Positivity – not everything will succeed but failures bring important lessons on how to succeed next time! All those involved in the Transition must be supported and encouraged. Transition will never reach its ultimate goal – there will always be more to do. But many small changes do add up