Localization is the best way to repair
our ecosystems, our societies and ourselves.

The Economics of Happiness Film

Our award-winning film, The Economics of Happiness, spells out the social, spiritual, and ecological costs of today’s global economy while highlighting the multiple benefits of economic localization. The film showcases the steps people are already taking worldwide to rebuild their local economies and communities. Featuring Vandana Shiva, Bill McKibben, David Korten, Samdhong Rinpoche, and other inspiring thinkers and activists.

“What’s our favourite documentary of all time? The one film we wish everyone could see? Hands down, this is it. It is truly one of the most important and useful films for inspiring change that has been made in a generation.”

– Films for Action –

The Economics of Happiness is FREE TO WATCH here and on Vimeo and YouTube. Please consider supporting our work by making a donation to the filmmakers, Local Futures here. Or you can order the DVD via our online shop here. Watch the 3-minute trailer on YouTube.

The English-language DVD includes Spanish, French, and English subtitles, and can be purchased here. For other languages, click the link below.

The abridged, 20-minute version of the film can be viewed online for free on YouTube (below), on Vimeo, and on the Films for Action website.

To initiate discussion and inspire local initiatives we encourage everyone to host a community screening of The Economics of Happiness or our other films.

This guide expands on the arguments made in the film, and points to a wealth of resources for further learning, reflection and action.

Economics of Happiness Conferences

Since 2012, Local Futures has been organizing and running a series of Economics of Happiness conferences in venues around the world, in collaboration with international thought leaders and local activists and organizations. The events aim to stimulate critical debate about the global corporate economy, and to encourage an exploration of human-scale alternatives.