Comments on: Money as Debt

By: Keith

Keith — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:50:23 +0000

The third way I believe you might find at http://www.ripplepay.com
It’s still debt based but the debt is distributed not centralized.

The most important factor here is that all software for this project is licensed under GPL. Therefore we have the legal right to modify this software as we see fit.

Ryan added an interest on outstanding debt feature, I think this was just when he started to doubt the uptake of the project.
As stated though theres no explicit need to implement this.

Does anybody know Python

By: Scott Reimers

Scott Reimers — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:56:15 +0000

Tim,

Funny You say that. I’m currently building agreements, gathering tools, seeds, knowledge and builting a greenhouse in order to apply spin-farming to a non-profit model (setting up the non-profit). The goal is to provide local food, products and jobs. We’re trying to figure out how to merge the SPIN model with perma-culture techniques… especially creating and managing food forests. In the end the goal is to have most anything that CAN be made locally being made locally for those persons (hopefully most of us) who can see the value in keeping money in a local economy.

I’m definitely see the current economic situation as I see it as a perfect opportunity to begin implementing sustainable local practices as people in their desperation are willing to think and WORK outside the box…

Thank you for your resources everyone who is making them available. If things go well UFA should be giving back in the next couple years with online planting/harvest calendar+calculators, price watching, yard planners and a database with active communities of persons using different permaculture system and comparing notes and techniques to help teach each other. It’s a big goal, but I think we’re all thinking (and even acting) big now eh?

By: Daniel

Daniel — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 23:29:28 +0000

This post directs to an interesting spin on the Ponzi scheme and it’s similarity to banking – ties in with the above.

http://ckmurray.blogspot.com/2009/01/banking-is-ponzi-scheme.html

By: Vic

Vic — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 05:41:00 +0000

Well done Craig for putting the Crash Course on Geoffs site. We’ve been promoting it for months at Permaculture Noosa. One of our members has just run a half day course on the crash course ( a combination of viewing all 20 chapters + lively group discussion). 10 people attended and it was fantastic. For those who haven’t seen it yet. It is an absolute MUST SEE and like RIGHT NOW. It will also make you realize the media are going all out to pull the wool over everyone’s eyes by presenting a host of expert opinions which are all design to deceive us as to the real situation. It is imperative that Aussies really gets a good understanding of what is really going on fast. Otherwise I fear some people are in for a really nasty surprise in the next 12 months. ps for solutions refer to the Transition Town Handbook.

By: Ryan

Ryan — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 04:01:11 +0000

ahh…
the truth layed out nice and simple.
thanks

By: Tim Auld

Tim Auld — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 01:40:28 +0000

The problem is the solution, right? The increasing unemployed masses will provide a work force to apply Permaculture techniques. The problem is land ownership, or at least convincing land owners that using their land in an unconventional way is beneficial. What’s needed is a low-capital model that will make such a change in land use economical during the period of transition. Land owners big and small can lease out their otherwise unproductive space for growing organic food to sell at market or buy directly. SPIN-Farming is an example. The most financially stressed families may be the most receptive. This process would have a snow-ball effect as word is spread and host land owners would learn about Permaculture, reduce their consumption, and convince their friends and family of its virtues. Increasing capacity for education from Permaculture demonstration farms will be important during this period, but much training could be done on the job.

House and land prices are coming down, but food prices are unlikely to. This may allow participants to gain back the residences taken by the banks. Accommodation during this period will be a problem – temporary arrangements such as sharing, rent assistance to participants, tents and shanties may be necessary.

A progressive amount of food will be grown in proximity to the population, with an associated culture shift of increased self sufficiency – thus relieving government of any stripe the responsibility. The model could be applied to suburban and regional areas.

Business and training support from the PRI or another purpose made entity, and leadership from experienced permies would be a great way to kick it off: a franchise that people can get into easily without much start-up capital. I personally would be interested in doing this, but would like to work under someone more experienced before working for myself.