Discussion Group & Presentation: Say Yes to a Pesticide-Free Future!

Using the precautionary principle, direct democracy, and out-of-the-box activism, the citizens of Mals, a small town in Italy, triumphed in creating the world’s first pesticide-free community. Organic farmers and concerned citizens united to thwart the disruption of their traditional agricultural practices and the poisoning of their landscape. Their savvy activism led to a public referendum for a pesticide-free future, and was endorsed by ¾ of the town’s voters. The story of Mals will be shared through a variety of media, including information artworks from Douglas Gayeton, which will also be shown Wednesday night at the EcoFarm art show. The depiction of this groundbreaking success will include lessons for other activists seeking community-level change through collective action.