The Silver Society Megatrend in Allotment Associations and why it is relevant

2024-03-19

In the past days while working on the exposé I kept being reminded of the 12 Megatrends by newsletters I received from the German Zukunftsinstitut ZL. I take it I should pick up on them now and see, how they fit into my research topic. So, here I am starting to look at the Megatrend of the Silver Society.

As a board member of an allotment association, drawing on my experiences and insights from other associations, I reflect on the implications of the Silver Society Megatrend. It positions the association at the crossroads of shifting demographics and evolving societal values (see graph below).

What might this mean for our association? How can we incorporate the insights of this trend into our framework? With age categories blurring and individuals defining themselves more by values than age, allotment associations are likely to experience a diverse mix of perspectives. This diversity of age and conflicting values can lead to eco-social conflicts, as older members may prioritize certain qualities of life and gardening practices while others focus on different values and beliefs. This divergent emphasis on quality of life between older and younger members challenges the traditional economic model of growth, which can be observed in sectors such as tourism and the real estate market. Therefore, allotment associations may be wise to reconcile the desire for sustainable practices with the need for economic viability. This tension may manifest in debates over resource allocation, land use policies, and membership criteria.

To address the identified or assumed eco-social conflicts, allotment associations could embrace diversity in their membership and management structures. By valuing the experience and wisdom of older members alongside the innovation of younger generations, associations can foster a culture of collaboration and shared stewardship of the land.

Adopting a pro-aging mindset aligns with the ethos of allotment gardening, which celebrates the wisdom and experience that come with age. By prioritising the well-being of members and the environment over economic growth, associations can promote sustainable practices and mitigate eco-social conflicts.

So, to conclude this thinking, I belief that the Silver Society Megatrend holds significant relevance for allotment associations, shaping their approach to eco-social conflicts and guiding their journey towards a more inclusive, sustainable future.