Rainbow Prepping is an article by Prof Jem Bendell, the originator of the Deep Adaptation concept – which in a nutshell is that climate change cannot be stopped, and we need to start adapting to it now.
The article lists 15 ways we should be approaching this damned future, practically. I’m writing this as I read it. Writing helps me understand my own thoughts on things, having to put it in words instead of just general feelings.
Residence resilience – actively choose where to live, based on future climate change.
I did this, moving to rural Victoria, 550m above sea level, far from the coast and the big city. On a hill that cannot be flooded. Winters dip below zero C so they might end up being mild. If you are serious, then you take such a step. Now.
Amusement sustainability – basically you need a community willing to enjoy life, or a big enough extended family or perhaps a co-op. Think of all the entertainment that does not require electricity. Because you will want that come the day.
Essentially don’t be too isolated, and have community – ideally with artistic types.
Income diversification – your job might go. Your savings might go. Consider what is tradeable in a post-money society. And get something going that you can trade. A talent, a skill, produce, a huge stockpile of batteries or condoms.
My intention is a hobby farm. Reality is that in Australia they are very expensive!
Neighbourhood involvement.
This is critical.
Know your neighbours well. Even if they aren’t “your cuppa tea”.
Be active in the community. Form friendships. Actively help out with things.
Don’t mention end times. When the time comes, you will be trusted and part of the solution.
Business localisation – you are in or near a small town (ideally). Typically things are produced locally. Be a consumer of local goods and services. It will benefit everyone even if the doom never arrives. It will expand the survivability if it does.
Dismiss any nagging ideas that it costs more. It doesn’t in the big picture. Give it a whirl and see.
Orthobiotic living – Jem says ” attention to mobility, cardiovascular fitness, deep rest, sleep, metabolic health, nutrition, gut health, disease vigilance, and complementary therapeutics, including herbs. “
Simply put, if you are unhealthy, in a collapse, your chances are exponentially more difficult. Me personally, I push the limits of food hygiene, so I am more in the direction of a 3rd world country. I have never gotten sick in countries I should. I can handle things being a bit off.
Water and food security – water is everything. If you don’t have a Plan B for water, your survival location is not suitable. For food, learn what can be eaten that grows wild. Practice it.
Practical skill acquisition – ideally something in this list from Jem resonates with you – “carpentry, plumbing, electrics, sewing, bicycle maintenance, fermentation, bee keeping, fire making, fire fighting, massage, holistic therapies, conflict resolution, group facilitation and non-violent self defence. Adopt an attitude of repair, towards clothing, electronics, furniture and appliances. “
Relocation readiness – the future is uncertain. All sorts of things can go sideways at your location, including bad people turning up with guns and whatnot. But also weather. Have somewhere else up your sleeve, far away. Know how to get there, and exactly what you will do when you do get there.
Ultimately, as my book How and Where to Survive a Global Cataclysm points out, if at all possible, have a stash of supplies somewhere distant (less than a tank of fuel) on the way to that place. Redundancy!
Ecological stewardship – a healthier local environment will work better for you
Psychological wholeness – being at one with the potentials now will make it easier if it happens
Political engagement – “You can try to influence how politicians and officials realise the levels of destruction, the causes, and how to prepare for, and respond to, specific disruptions and breakdowns.”
I wouldn’t bother unless you seriously believe you can affect change. You probably need to be “somebody” in academia, business, organisations or politics.
Information and interaction sovereignty – basically every non-tech form you can think of. For example, printed maps and walkie talkies.
Needs simplification – live as simply as possible – fewer things, fewer needs – and the transition won’t hurt so much.
Gumption promotion – don’t be a sheeple