As of June, 2014, this book has been replaced by Economic Direct Democracy : A Framework to End Poverty and Maximize Well-Being. In coming years, it will become increasingly important for urban economies to become stronger, greener, fairer, more resilient, and more diverse. Many communities face difficult socioeconomic and environmental problems, such as debt, deficits, underemployment, decaying infrastructure, pollution, and inequities in income and wealth. Climate change is beginning to strain local economies and city and county budgets even further. At the same time, assistance from cash-strapped state and federal governments is becoming harder to obtain. A local currency system could help. Local currencies are springing up in cities around the world, including cities in the USA. The full potential will be reached when the local currency concept is expanded to become a comprehensive local monetary/financial system . Creating Sustainable Societies: The Rebirth of Democracy and Local Economies describes a blueprint for a local monetary/financial system, called the Token Exchange System. It can help urban areas to: Create green jobs and support small businesses. Establish socially responsible corporations. Generate funds for local schools, nonprofits, and public services. Increase community pride, trust, and well-being. Protect the environment. Prepare for and become more resilient to the effects of climate change. Generate funds for infrastructure repair. Implementation of the token system does not require the passage of new laws and participation occurs on a volunteer basis. The system is operated by users, who form a membership-based community benefit corporation.700 1 Lietaer, Bernard