ABSTRACT
Introduction Transformative change from a consumer culture to a way of life that sustains the natural world is imperative for reducing the impact of the current environmental crisis. A rapid increase in greenhouse gas emissions, largely caused by human behaviour, is resulting in unprecedented changes in our climate that threaten the quality of human existence (IPCC 2014). The solution to this worldwide problem lies in transformative change, which involves a fundamental reorientation of mainstream culture to reflect a holistic understanding of humans as interdependent with the natural world. This transition requires a movement away from contemporary, global north lifestyles harmful to the natural environment, towards those that are more sustainable and in harmony with it. This chapter investigates possible strategies for advancing ecosocial transition by exploring the knowledge and wisdom of older people who have developed sustainable lifestyles and communities. It focuses on environmental protection and stewardship strategies that older people have developed for ecosocial transition and considers how this knowledge can be applied to the wider community.
