Transition in Cornwall
What is ‘Transition?’
It’s the movement towards a low energy future. It’s a people’s response to the approach of climate chaos and peak oil. It’s the process of adapting to our future, a future very different to anything we have today. It’s a philosophy, in which we share what we can, consider the needs of those around us, look out for our neighbours. It’s all of these, and much more. It’s about you, me, and us, and our children, and how we can chart a path for all of us through the challenge of the years ahead.
The movement has been inspired by the work that Rob Hopkins started in Kinsale and has generated in Totnes and now in many other towns, cities and villages, mainly in the south west and increasingly beyond.
In Cornwall today there are transition movements in Penwith (Transition Penwith), Falmouth (Transition Falmouth), Lostwithiel and Truro. As well as this there is a climate change village in St Endellion, a partner to the transition movement.
What do the Transition Towns do?
While there is a well-known model to follow in the 12 Steps to Transition every community will approach this in its own way, to reflect local conditions. So far all have set up volunteer groups to look at different aspects of local affairs – food, health, housing, transport, energy, etc – in order to start assessing the work that’s needed to recreate a low energy environment, economy and society. Much of the work is very practical, looking at cycling, or allotments, or insulation schemes, or reintroducing traditional skills. Some is more long term, looking at a strategy for the next 20 or 30 years. Whatever anyone can bring to the table is welcome.
Who funds us?
No-one! Everything is done by volunteers. Some communities get help from local councils (mostly in kind), some small sums from local businesses. Most keep going on a shoestring and on the commitment of members.
How do I join?
Contact your local coordinator (see the Transition Towns website for details) who will suggest how you can best help. If you’re not sure, keep an eye on the Groundswell website for transition events, and have a listen to what we have to say.
Transition Penwith www.transitionpenwith.com
Transition Falmouth www.transitionfalmouth.org.uk
Transition Caradon : www.transitioncaradon.org.uk
Transition Helston: www.transitionhelston.org.uk
Transition Ladock and Grampound Road:
www.transitiontowns.org/Ladock-Grampound
St Endellion www.stendellion.com
12 steps to transition http://transitiontowns.org/TransitionNetwork/12Steps
Transition Towns http://www.transitiontowns.org/