The importance of #inconsequential actions for positive change in a community

I'm fascinated with the why, who and how of positive change. I moved to a new house, city and state 5 years ago. It was an opportunity to try some different things.

Here are 3 examples of tiny steps towards creating positive change. I mostly did them for myself and because I liked them. I'm sharing them not because they were important, but because they weren't important or consequential, at least in the big scheme of things.

1. Planting plants🪴 native to my local area

In my neighbourhood, 98% of plants and trees come from another continent and climate. They are introduced species, not native to the area, or even to Australia.

They might look nice for the majority, but I wanted to support local biodiversity, be water-wise and use Tasmanian species. So, I did.

After about 18 months, I noticed a resident about 4 blocks from me had planted a native verge garden. Another year after this, I happened to meet her as she was out gardening. We got talking and I learned that my garden had helped to inspire her to plant her garden with native species. I haven't noticed any other gardens in my area using native plants since mine was installed, but 1 is good enough.

2. Buying an electric mower⚡

Tasmania is one of the few places in the world that already has 100% renewable electricity. The future state target is 200% renewable power, as it can be exported to Victoria. Motor mowers are traditionally powered by petrol (gasoline). Just like cars. I bought an electric mower, because it was more sustainable and quieter than the usual mowers.

After about 6 months, one of my neighbours bought an electric mower after seeing mine do the job. And just recently, my other next door neighbour bought an electric mower as well. That's 3 houses in a row now. Another tiny, inconsequential step to reducing fossil fuel use.

3. Street seat

Being terrible at DIY, and inspired by the Social Life Project's push for a seat on every corner, I paid for my local Community Shed to make a wooden seat I could put outside my house. This gave me the opportunity to see the amazing work they do to build community and improve mental health. I met a fantastic guy called Shane, who made me my first seat (and others since).

With some excitement and trepidation, I painted up the seat and chained it to my front fence. For a while, I didn't see anyone use it, although people did knock on my door, asking if they could take the seat. I said no and explained that it was for people walking along the street to use. They seemed perplexed that anyone would do such a thing as crazy as putting out a seat for others to use.

After a while, I started to notice people using it: couples sitting down to watch the world go by, seniors who needed a break whilst walking along our hilly street, and even people reading books. One lady told my wife that the seat provided a welcome reprieve on her frequent walks down to the shops. Another said it was a neighbourly thing for someone to do.

I haven't noticed any other street seats in my city. But, one day, someone might be inspired to make or buy a seat to put outside their house too. Or not.

So, I'm starting to notice more inconsequential things that others do. And thinking that they, when taken together, might actually be the things that our community needs more of. That they are important. And can make a difference. And create positive change. Just like I want to.

#placemaking #community #actlocal

Patrycja Rosinska Esther Bliss Placemaking Education Town Team Movement