The Tragedy of the Commons

The highly suspect economics essay called ‘The Tragedy of the Commons’ is well known in Wild Law for being heavily leaned by Professors Warren and Lea in attempts to discredit its practicability at the first Wild Law Conference (papers available elsewhere in the forum).

Here is a new take on the subject from the Mountain Equipment Coop (MEC) which everyone should read.

It points the finger rather differently – there is even a telling graphic to that effect.


http://blog.mec.ca/2007/09/index.html


To those unfamiliar, MEC started as a co-operative amongst a small group of Canadian students who wanted to buy their rucksacs economically.

Out of that one initiative has grown an organisation with over two and a half million members, which must make it one of the largest co-ops anywhere in the world as well as one of the largest retailers of outdoor equipment.

A highly green, ethical and democratic organisation, MEC is keenly engaged in promoting and protecting the wilderness – Canada being one of the relatively small number of countries with significant amounts to still to protect. Its purpose is not to make money or sell gear:

‘Our mission is to help people access self-propelled wilderness-oriented recreation by providing equipment, services, and expertise.’

A freshing difference. And a heartening example of how small, local acts can sometimes produce enormous consequences when their time is right.



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