GEN Europe

GEN Europe, or the Global Ecovillage Network of Europe, is a regional network supporting sustainable communities and ecovillages across the continent. Officially established in 1995 following a series of meetings in Denmark, GEN Europe's roots are closely linked to the international ecovillage movement, which gained momentum in the early 1990s as a response to environmental and social concerns. The network’s legal seat is in Germany, with its operational base currently at Sieben Linden ecovillage in Beetzendorf, and its office previously housed at the Arterra Bizimodu ecovillage in Spain. GEN Europe connects grassroots initiatives, intentional communities, and organizations dedicated to ecological living, resource conservation, and sustainable community practices. Its activities emphasize peer-to-peer learning, the exchange of best practices, educational programs, and advocacy. The network has consultative status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council. As of 2023, GEN Europe counted over 100 members, including communities, organizations, and individuals. Member communities regularly host seminars and training focused on practical sustainability—topics range from ecological building to renewable energy and social governance. An ongoing initiative is the annual GEN Europe Conference, which brings together members to share skills and experiences. The organization’s current work focuses on four main areas: ecology, economy, social, and cultural dimensions of sustainability. Through targeted projects, educational offerings, and partnerships, GEN Europe aims to demonstrate functional models for lower-impact living, as well as build resilience within participating communities.