In New Mexico, community energy co-ops helped families install solar: lowering energy bills, creating jobs, and building shared ownership. In Indonesia, village-scale microgrids expanded access to reliable power, especially in rural areas beyond the reach of the central grid. In Mexico, Waverley partners supported smallholder farmers in building agroecological markets that strengthened land stewardship and improved livelihoods, advancing both local food economies and climate resilience.
These weren’t just climate wins. They were practical wins for communities. People felt them in lower bills, better meals, and real jobs. That personal benefit fueled trust, participation, and staying power.
Some efforts faced structural barriers like procurement systems or trust gaps that limited traction, despite strong vision. Some food efforts hit sourcing barriers. A few energy pilots prioritized technology over trust, and stalled. These moments reminded us: Community buy-in isn’t a bonus. It’s the backbone for progress.
