Homefullness - Oct 09 2025 ep20 - Rethinking Rural Development: How Alignment of Planning Policy Enables Sustainable Hamlets

Zola interviews Steven Liaros to discuss the importance and the roadmap to create a network of Circular Economy Villages (CEV). These villages aim to integrate private housing development with public infrastructure to alleviate stress on local governments and create sustainable, regenerative rural and peri-urban communities. Steven delves into the critical barriers that traditional eco-village projects face, such as local area planning policies, financing, and necessary infrastructure. The CEV model addresses these issues by incorporating principles of the circular economy, emphasizing reduced waste and enhanced efficiency in energy and water usage, and fostering climate resilience. The episode highlights the benefits of this model for rural areas and its role in enabling local governments to collaborate efficiently. The discussion also covers the strategic planning and financial strategies that are key to making these villages a reality.