Celebrating 30 Years of the Global Ecovillage Network & 20 Years of Gaia Education
Photo credit: EDE Thailand
In 1995, a major conference was held at Ecovillage Findhorn, Scotland, bringing together around 400 people and eco-communities from across the globe. This event marked the founding of GEN – The Global Ecovillage Network.
In its early years, the movement focused on connection, sharing experiences, and learning from one another. It was a time of showcasing best practices from ecovillages, living laboratories of sustainability, gaining visibility, and co-creating a global network.
As GEN grew, it became clear that education was key to spreading the knowledge and skills developed within ecovillages and transition communities. This led to the creation of GEESE – Global Ecovillage Educators for a Sustainable Earth, a pioneering group of regenerative educators, academics, and practitioners who co-developed the EDE – Ecovillage Design Education Curriculum. In 2005, the EDE was officially launched, and Gaia Education was founded to host it.
Over the decades, EDE programs have reached diverse settings, from ecovillages and universities to slums and traditional communities. The curriculum has been adapted for youth, integrated into schools (Gaia Schools), and implemented in both urban and rural contexts, spreading the seeds of regeneration far and wide. Today, the e-learning platform and online programs continue to expand our global impact.
Join for a Special Celebration!
In 2025, we celebrate 30 years of the Global Ecovillage Network and 20 years of Gaia Education! the main celebration will take place at the European Ecovillage Gathering in Hungary, at Manas Garden, from August 12th to 17th. You are warmly invited to join by registering here or submitting a workshop proposal.
As a global provider of holistic education in sustainability, regenerative practices, and community development, Gaia Education is excited to mark these milestones, honoring their roots and the many contributors who have shaped our journey. Members of Gaia Education’s Community of Practice have become agents of positive cultural change, co-creating social enterprises, cooperatives, and community projects—and many have gone on to train others in sustainability.
Share Your Story!
As they prepare to launch the “Voices of Gaia” campaign on social media, Gaia Education invites you to share your experiences.
Send a short video, text, testimonial, or pictures about how Gaia Education or the Ecovillage Movement has impacted your life. Share about your key learnings, insights, and transformative experiences.
Submit your story to: taisa.mattos@gaiaeducation.org or upload it directly here.
Would you like to organize a hub in your community to celebrate Gaia Education and GEN? Stories from EDE organizers, Gaia Schools, GEESE, and beyond are welcome!
