“We are all just walking extrusions of Earth.
We walk around for a while, then we go back.”
~ Reuho Yamada-Roshi
Earth Based Governance
We are living in a time of profound transformation.We are stepping into a world marked by climate crisis, social fragmentation, and outdated systems of governance. Too often, these systems rely on binary thinking and competitive processes that leave many voices out and result in a zero-sum paradigm.
But what if there are other ways?
We believe there are. Our work is rooted in Earth-Based Governance—a framework inspired by nature’s balance, indigenous wisdom, and decades of experience in community facilitation. It centers on consent-based, non-binary decision-making, and builds a culture of unity, reflection, and inclusion. It is a practical and transformative method that can be used to guide communities or project initiatives with wisdom, care, and collaborative power.
This approach is reflective of
"Whole-systems thinking" and recognizing the interconnectedness of people, ecosystems, and the decisions that shape them.
Consent-based processes which draw inspiration from Dynamic Governance and Sociocracy, an approach in which dialogue, reflection, and shared agreement are central to collective action.
Earth-centered wisdom and Natural Law, as practiced by Indigenous and Elder Cultures, where governance arises from relationship, reciprocity, and responsibility to life.
A commitment to inclusive participation, ensuring that decisions are made not only efficiently, but ethically honoring the Earth and the well-being of all members of a group or community.
Rather than focusing on control or majority rule, Earth-Based Governance emphasizes connection, care, and shared stewardship. It is a framework that encourages thoughtful engagement, supports collaborative leadership, and creates space for diverse voices and perspectives.
Our intention is to provide support in navigating such a framework and arriving at healthy starting points for action.
Meet the Team
Ho-e Ryan Brandenburg, Founder
Christiane Pedros,
Co-Founder
EBG Founder, Ho-e Ryan Brandenburg has been a dedicated student of governance since 1970. Ordained as a priest in Chino Roshi’s lineage and as a ceremonial leader in Native American traditions, he has led ceremonies and sesshins across Europe, India, Japan, and North America. Ho-e continues to teach and guide communities and organizations in the practice of consent-based decision-making.
Christiane has over 20 + years of experience as a communications consultant, strategic advisor, and bridge-builder across the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, supporting leaders, organizations, and communities to align their values with the principles of the living Earth.
At Earth-Based Governance, she focuses on administration, team stewardship, and cultivating partnerships and resources while deepening her practice of making decisions in right relationship with Mother Earth.
Enrique Motilla,
MSc Log. - IT Professional
Enrique Motilla, MSc Log.
IT professional with 30+ years of experience, focusing on AI and technical collaboration.
Beyond technology, Enrique has been deeply involved with indigenous communities in Latin America since 2006, supporting cultural preservation efforts.
He believes technology should serve to connect people and amplify community voices, bridging distances while preserving what makes each community unique.
Terra Canova,
Systems Architect
Terra has over a decade of experience as a systems architect, content designer, and community platform steward, supporting people and groups in building structures that express the essence of the offering.
At EBG, she embodies the work through her design, creating thoughtful architecture and accessible pathways.
She believes that everyone carries gifts that can help make the world a better place and encourages us all to share them.
Collaborative Partners
The Earth-Based Governance Initiative is fiscally sponsored by the Earth Stewards Alliance, a nonprofit organization based in The Hague, Netherlands. This collaborative partnership provides the Initiative with financial and administrative support, enabling us to receive charitable contributions, strengthen our organizational capacity, and focus on developing our our work of fostering governance in right relationship with the living Earth.