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Judy Wicks Visits Mullumbimby

On Tuesday 27th May, American community activist and successful businesswoman Judy Wicks gave a talk and workshop at St Johns Hall in Mullumbimby. Judy spoke about her experiences in Philadelphia where she has established a small business network (BALLE) that encourages the production and use of local products and services.

Judy spoke about the importance of building a sustainable local economy. ‘You can’t just have one sustainable business in a community; you need a whole network of sustainable businesses that support each other”. The BALLE network offers a platform for local businesses to share information, promote local products and services and assists with building a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable local economy.

Judy founded the legendary Black Dog Café in Philadelphia which has become a fine example of a business that supports other local businesses and is making a positive impact on the local community. “Black dog café sources 100% of its power from renewable energy (wind) and purchases its products from local or regional producers and suppliers, Judy proudly announced, “and all our meat and dairy products are sourced from local organic farmers” Buying local products not only supports the local economy it is also supporting the environment. Food that has to be transported long distances has a much greater carbon print than food sourced from local producers.

In this new era of environmental awareness growing numbers of consumers are going to ask - Where has this product been made, and is there a local or regional alternative? Investing in and supporting local businesses contributes to the long term sustainability of the region. Local businesses are more likely to invest in and support the local community than those businesses that are based elsewhere, such as a fast food chain store.

There is considerable opportunity to reduce energy usage through education campaigns that promote energy efficient technologies and products. Byron Shire Council aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 30% (from 1990 levels) by 2020. In order for this to be possible the whole community has to get behind this initiative.

In the next decade the population of the Byron Shire will increase as will the number of visitors. This amounts to an increase in energy demand. Local businesses, residents, and visitors alike need to consciously reduce there individual and collective carbon print if our wonderful shire is to achieve this ambitious goal.

As individuals we can all look out our own situation, using energy efficient lights, turning appliances off at the power point, closing windows and blinds in the afternoon to minimize the need for energy hungry electric heaters, etc, and by supporting progressive local businesses. By working together as a community we can achieve great things and set an example to other communities and regions.

 

Jeff Johnson