Burgess COMMENTARY
Localization appears to be a social strategy that delivers a better quality of life than a society that is dominated by corporate globalization. It has long been said that 'all politics is local', but I have observed going back at least three decades that 'all life is local'.

There is no question that there are many goods that are most economically produced by 'mass production', but the use of goods and services to satisfy needs and enhance quality of life is something very different from mere mass production.

This short piece about Totnes in Deveon, England is a good piece of anecdotal evidence of the value of localization. I think it is right to note that the Totnes area has been at the forefront of thinking about sustainability and quality of life that goes back several decades, and perhaps only now in 2012 becoming fashionable.
Peter Burgess

UK Town seen as a model community

Britain's austerity measures have taken a toll on the its economy and led to more unemployment and a bigger drain on public spending. However, a small southwestern town is taking its own steps to address the national crisis.

Al Jazeera's Laurence Lee reports from Totnes.