Ecovillages: from isolated communities to ideal models of sustainable communities

Abstract This research aims to provide a historical perspective on the evolution of ecovillages from isolated communities to emerging ideal models for sustainable living. To this end, sixty-seven ecovillage definitions, spanning 1991–2023, were used as a primary data source. The definitions were collected from Google Scholar and analyzed through thematic analysis. Findings revealed that ecovillages initially adopted alternative living practices, primarily focusing on environmental sustainability and social equality. This led scholars to conceptualize ecovillages narrowly, mainly reflecting ecological sustainability and social harmony. Over time, ecovillages integrated economic and cultural themes in addition to ecological and social themes, broadening the conceptualization of ecovillages and positioning them as emerging models of sustainable living. The theoretical implication is expanding the scope of transformative social innovation (TSI) theory by showing that, on a grassroots level, TSIs require not only ecological and social sustainability but also economic viability and cultural adaptability. The practical implication is suggesting aspiring ecovillages to become more holistic and inclusive by focusing on the four above-mentioned themes and creating interdependencies with neighbouring communities.