What is Ecotopia

Ecotopia is an international gathering on environmental and social justice issues for young people all over Europe. It occurs every summer since 15 years ago, changing from one country to another in Western/Central and Eastern Europe. Since 1989, it has been organised by EYFA (European Youth For Action) and by a local grassroots environmental organisation as host organisation. This year, the 16th edition will take place in Dutch nature for the first time.

Ecotopia is not a 'holliday' camp. It is a place for learning and taking action, working together and having lots of fun. Ecotopia is also a functional model of self-sustainable community that puts into practice the principles of an environmentally friendly life-style: waste recycling, vegetarian kitchen, consensus decision-making, the use of alternative energy... Furthermore, Ecotopia is the place to exchange experiences, spread information and enrich one's knowledge about the environment and other social and political issues through workshops, debates and art.

Around 200 - 600 people use to attend Ecotopia each year, sharing skills and discussing about a wide range of themes related to environmental problems: climate change, transport and mobility, GMOs, organic food, eco-building and sustainable infrastructure, global politics and global economic system, strategies for actions, experiences of campaings, alternative media, migration, racism and xenophobia, cultural issues, influence on and of people...

Ecotopia is also remarkable for operating on the EcoRates system. It is an alternative economic system based on living standards and income of people rather than financial markets, which means that you pay for food at Ecotopia the same amount as you would pay for it in your own country.

Remember that one of the best ways to come to Ecotopia has always been The Bike Tour. It is an annual international project for everyone interested in environmentalism and community life, cycling and sustainability. This year we will start in Vienna, and cycle through Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany and the Netherlands to Gorinchem. On the way, we will share daily tasks and take part in actions of local environmental and cycling groups.