With the help of a dynamic group of academics, business leaders, and activists, Solutions has recently released a special issue dedicated to creating a brighter future for Appalachia. A new conversation is emerging in Central Appalachian coal country. Many groups are exploring how the region can grow a more diverse and more sustainable economy by reforesting barren mine lands, reclaiming rivers and streams, developing renewable energy industries, and supporting the region's many entrepreneurs. This discussion goes beyond the important goal of creating a restorative enterprise economy; it also includes investing in the region's social capital. Including a diverse range of perspectives, rich historical accounts, and detailed descriptions of solutions already in place on the ground, this Solutions special issue is Appalachia’s playbook for an economic and environmental transition.

All content will be available online at the Solutions website. Links to articles in the Appalachia special issue will be posted to this page, and we will encourage authors to use this forum to answer reader questions.

Look out for articles by Wendell Berry, Ecological Design expert John Todd, and Vernon Haltom of Coal River Mountain Watch.

As always, we welcome and encourage the involvement of our readers and invite you to use this online forum to contribute your own thoughts on the future of Appalachia.