Take Action for a Sustainable Future
Economics That Work for Communities, Not Just Banks
Join us in creating resilient communities through grassroots initiatives that prioritize sustainability and social equity.
Our Mission
At Living Economies, our mission is to transform community economics across Aotearoa New Zealand — decolonizing traditional financial systems and putting power back in the hands of people and communities. We provide education, practical tools, and resources for local and regional revitalization, from interest-free savings pools and TimeBanks to local currencies and co-operatives. Our initiatives support local food and energy solutions, and advocate for community-driven economic models that serve people and planet — not private banks.
Challenges in the Global Financial System
The Problem with Current Economics
Today’s global financial system is run mostly by private banks that create money through interest-bearing loans. This approach increases inequality and damages the environment. It puts profits ahead of people, weakens community bonds, and encourages harmful practices.
Since money is created as debt, it traps communities in cycles of dependence and exploitation, making it hard for them to succeed on their own. This widens the gap between the rich and the poor, harming both social cohesion and the environment.
The good news? Money is a human invention. We made the rules, which means we can change them. There are real alternatives that put people and planet first.
It starts with understanding how the system actually works. Once you see it, it's hard to unsee.
Innovative Solutions for Thriving Communities
Discover our range of solutions designed to empower communities and foster sustainable development. From TimeBanks to Local Money, each initiative is crafted to enhance local resilience and support ecological balance.
TimeBanks
Earn and spend time credits through community service, fostering a culture of reciprocity and mutual aid.
LETS
Local Exchange Trading Systems are membership-based mutual credit system, where trades are made using points rather than money.
Local Money
Implement complementary currencies to boost local trade and economic stability, ensuring resources remain within the community.
Savings pools
Also known as the genuine wealth system, savings pools are informal private groups where members support each other through interest-free savings and loans.
Co-ops
Co-operatives are businesses that are owned and run by and for members, using democratic processes to give all members a say.
Social enterprise
Social enterprises use a commercial model for the primary purpose of having a positive social and/or environmental impact.
Local first
Supporting your local economy can have many advantages.
Local food
Local food increases community self-reliance, and there are often ecological and health benefits, too.
Living Economies bookshop
Our bookshop is open
We are clearing our shelves of much-loved books on money, monetary reform and sustainability, including titles by our own founders. Most are on sale from $10, two are free, and every purchase supports the trust's work.
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Sale!
Fleeing Vesuvius: Overcoming the Risks of Economic and Environmental Collapse (New Zealand Edition)
Original price was: $29.00.$20.00Current price is: $20.00. -
Healthy Money, Healthy Planet: Developing Sustainability Through New Money Systems
$20.00 -
Sale!
This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate
Original price was: $30.00.$20.00Current price is: $20.00.
Stay Informed with Our Updates
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest news and updates on our initiatives, events, and insights. Be part of a community dedicated to creating sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Join us in our mission to transform economies and foster resilient communities. Sign up today to stay connected and informed about our journey towards a more equitable and sustainable future.