Hollywood’s recent disaster movie “2012″ is having a surprising connection with self sufficient living. In an article which appeared in the Contra Costa Times, L.A. County’s emergency management spokesman Ken Kondo said he hoped the movie would spark a sense of urgency to be prepared for catastrophic disasters. He watched the movie with preparedness colleagues. Toward the end of the article, Sharon Packer, executive director of the American Civil Defense Association recommends having up to a year’s supply of food and raises concern about the real possibility of long term power outages in the wake of an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) caused by a nuclear weapon.

Food shortages and extended power outages are just the kind of challenges that self sufficient living protects against. Here’s one more example of the benefits of learning to live off grid, growing  vegetables in your own back yard, and simple living. Sustainability is not just a concept for those concerned with environmental issues, it’s something for every family to consider. And what better time than now to get into this, when these things are within the reach of most everyone.