Introduction

The one minute or “elevator” pitch for localnet goes something like this.

• We've already cracked long distance bulk transport of goods and data - with shipping containers and the internet - but transporting goods and ourselves to and from our homes - i.e. the “last mile” - is a mess and getting worse thanks to home deliveries
• Could it be done any better than our current mix of public and private transport?
  Yes. We could actually do MUCH better if we rationalised all the disparate delivery and transport mechanisms. With due deference to Darwin, we need an “intelligent design” rather than to continue living with what has evolved naturally.
• Would it really make a difference? Absolutely. Being able to have almost anything or anyone taken anywhere at very low cost would fundamentally change the way we live, work and care for those in our communities - and it's hugely beneficial for the environment too!
• Where could we try it out? The next eco-town or new city development would be ideal.
• So what's stopping us? Imagination, vested interests and the need for a political champion.

 

The rest of this chapter:

• expands on the elevator pitch with an overview of the “localnet” concept
• sets out the structure of the book and
• explains how those from different disciplines can best use this book