To continue to thrive on this finite planet humans must reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and likely material and energy consumption, by over 80%, and do so, most likely, by mid-century. The need for such a radical change in our behavior derives from an expectation of diminishing and, eventually, leveling material and energy abundance, and an appreciation of the climate disruption caused by our consumption.

Such a transition will be unprecedented. But it need not be a complete collapse, nor a return to a distant and dark past. To have a smoother transition we need to quickly give up business-as-usual thinking and the misdirected hope that, given time, we can return to what appeared normal just recently. It will require our adapting to a slower,ecologically appropriate, pace, one austere yet potentially satisfying of our deepest needs. Transitioning to a sustainable patterns of living requires using a psychology of transitions. We must plan for, motivate, and maintain radical, yet perhaps delightful, behavior change starting with each of us, where we are, now.

Planning for foundational sustainability: Transitioning to the local

We can use localization's environmental, psychological, and institutional compatibility with a viable and meaningful existence on a finite planet

Motivating environmental stewardship: Living lightly

We can draw on older forms of motivation to promote environmentally responsible behavior, including intrinsic motivation and our fascination with building and maintaining competence.

Maintaining human wellness: Using nature, tranquility and activity as medicine

We can be supported by the powerful effect on human well-being of nearby nature, in all its forms, year-round, even in northern climates. We also can understand, as Thomas Jefferson did, that wellness derives not from wealth nor splendor, but tranquility and occupation.