As far as I know, it is very difficult to fix the entire society as a whole, that is why I am personally more interested in finding small solutions that anyone can apply in his life, than big solutions, which require large mass movements and revolutionary changes in society. This is very unlikely to happen, and it depends on many factors and many people that it is impossible for us to control, beyond that we should not try to control that.
I cannot agree more.
To accept that there are no big solutions, I actually did and do. People use to say that reducing ones lifestyle does not make a difference and to be "less harmful" does not address the ecological and psychological issues. I was thinking about this statement and first it made sense, but when I thought more about it, it sounded like an excuse.
While reducing consumption & travel may not bring enough relief on the whole, it nevertheless can lead - as a bridge - towards a more holistic form of community lives. This requires, as you mentioned rightly, that interference from governments and corporations does not take place. Governments are clueless, blind, when it comes to local phenomena and they should leave it to the locals. I am talking about time frames which are long term, like ten, twenty and more years. If this happens - eco villages which exist since decades might give proof that this is so - it can turn out that self government is more efficient, effective and people as well as animal and plant friendly.
If it fails, it fails. Failure is nothing we can avoid.
I do not believe though in one ruler or a bunch of selected rulers, for to rule, it needs a variance of different people, who are put in charge for this or that certain matter. And when they served for a particular problem or task, they give the stick away to the next ones, who might be more capable of handling a changing situation. This requires a base, a home, where not too much fluctuation takes place. Also, it requires less specialisation and "expertism" from people but teaching each other different skills on different problems and matters.
But those are only assumptions. I think the best point you made is "no government interference".
Best mindset. I think it is even a step, because things are not going to be successful at the first time.
It all depends on whether the solution consists of small changes that anyone can make in their day to day, because if it requires a lot of effort or a very large change, even on a personal level, it is unlikely that it will happen, it has to be a gradual process, take small steps towards where you want to be in terms as long as those you mention, perhaps ten, twenty, or many more years. I'm a big fan of doing things slowly and gradually, but the right way. Results may take time to arrive, but they will be permanent.