Corporate centralization of the world’s food and other goods is increasing food miles, emitting more pollutants, and generally wreaking havoc on our good friend, Earth. Luckily, the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE) is here to help.
In short, BALLE is a network that connects local sustainable businesses throughout the world. Businesses involved share a common desire to reduce energy use and waste, support localized economies, and explore new, green opportunities, including fair-trade, fair-wages, and healthy work environments, for a sustainable economy.
This inspiring idea came from Judy Wicks, an entrepreneur who opened White Dog Café in the first floor of her Philadelphia home in 1983. By researching ways to green her shop, and listening to her customers requests, she re-designed her menu to create what is now one of the most eco-friendly restaurants in the country. White Dog sources all its food from local organic producers, uses wind and solar power, composts to reduce solid waste, and even recycles any leftover fryer grease into biodiesel.
Soon, Judy decided that the world needed more than just her cafe to make a difference. Through the Sustainable Business Alliance of Greater Philadelphia, she met Laury Hammel, another local entrepreneur who shared her drive for economical change. The pair soon found that other networkers wanted to make a larger difference, as well, and in 2001, Judy and Laury combined their passion for sustainability to co-found BALLE.
Now, seven years later, the business alliance consists of 60 local business networks including more than 15,000 entrepreneurs throughout North America.
Be Wise, Glocalize
BALLE’s mission is to help create “a global economy made up of linked local economies, comprised of businesses that are local, green, and fair”. In other words, they encourage “Thinking Globally, Acting Locally” – and achieving a sustainable global economy as a result of many successful local economies – a recent trend called “glocalization”.
“Its important to remember that BALLE is not just about localization, but also about global fair trade,” says co-founder, Judy Wicks. “We are building a global consciousness that all places on earth matter, rather than a system where some places are trashed and exploited for the benefit of others.”
Glocalization is a big idea that begins with small consumer changes. The movement encourages consumers to buy from an outside source only when they cannot find the product locally. As Judy puts it, “When we exchange culturally unique products, we learn about each other and appreciate differences. It makes a lot more sense then shipping products like meat and potatoes around the world that are usually available at home.”
Why Buy Local?
The reasons are endless. Most importantly, less travel means less pollution, congestion, and habitat loss, and a more sustainable world.
But localization not only benefits the environment – it also benefits you. Any money you spend locally will be recycled within your living economy to other area businesses and organizations, helping them thrive. Small businesses also supply you with fair, quality products, and usually provide the most sincere customer service as a result of their investment in the community. In addition, hometown businesses offer tons of safe, fair-wage jobs for local residents.
Getting Involved
Becoming a BALLE member grants you and your business access to a heap of exciting networks and events, including a three day annual BALLE conference where businesses come together to speak, listen, and exchange ideas.
Still, the easiest way to get involved is by adopting the BALLE mentality – think, act and buy locally, and all areas of the world will benefit.
“Ultimately, I believe our movement will make people happier,” Judy says. “There is a craving for community, for connection with each other and with nature. I see a joyful future in the community life the localization movement is building.” Kudos, Judy. So do I.
Want to become a member of BALLE and the localization movement?
- First, check to see if your business is eligible to join.
- Then, search the list of networks to find a compatible group in your local area.
- If you can’t find a network in your area, expand your entrepreneurial skills and set up a new network for your local economy.
If you are not a small business owner…
- Stay informed by signing up to receive BALLE’s online newsletter and e-mail updates.
- Check out your local networks to see if they have solo sign-ups, local events, or volunteer opportunities.
