Editing User:RichardF/Green living

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[[File:SJsolar03.jpg|thumb|[[Photovoltaic system at St. Jude's church]].]]

'''Green living''' (or '''sustainable living{{w|sustainable living}}''') is about practical choices, large and small, to preserve the earth and have a better [[quality of life]]{{w|quality of life}}. It is a lifestyle{{w|lifestyle (sociology)}} that attempts to reduce an individual's{{w|individual}} or society's{{w|society}} use of the Earth's{{w|Earth}} natural resources{{w|natural resources}} and his or her own resources.<ref name="Ain09">Ainoa, J., Kaskela, A., Lahti, L., Saarikoski, N., Sivunen, A., Storgårds, J., & Zhang, H. (2009). Future of Living. In Neuvo, Y., & Ylönen, S. (eds.), [http://lib.tkk.fi/Reports/2009/isbn9789522480781.pdf Bit Bang - Rays to the Future]. Helsinki University of Technology (TKK), MIDE, Helsinki University Print, Helsinki, Finland, 174-204. ISBN 978-952-248-078-1.</ref> 

In order to make sustainable choices, it is very helpful to have solid, reliable information that tells us which behaviors are sustainable and which are unsustainable. In quantitative{{w|quantitative}} terms, which actions will make the greatest difference, and should be prioritized.
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Green living can be high tech (buying a [[hybrid vehicle]]{{w|hybrid vehicle}}), low tech ([[green cleaning]]{{w|green cleaning}}, or completely "back to nature." It can be smart grid{{w|smart grid}} or [[off the grid]]{{w|off the grid}}. [[Sustainable city living]] explains some of the areas of action for a city dweller.

Practitioners of sustainable living often attempt to reduce their carbon footprint{{w|carbon footprint}} by altering methods of [[transportation]]{{w|transportation}}, energy consumption{{w|Domestic energy consumption}} and diet{{w|diet (nutrition)}}.<ref name=Winter>{{cite book |last= Winter |first=Mick |title= Sustainable Living: For Home, Neighborhood and Community |publisher= Westsong Publishing |year= 2007 |isbn= 0-9659-0005-3 }}</ref> Proponents of sustainable living aim to conduct their lives in ways that are consistent with [[sustainability]]{{w|sustainability}}, in natural balance and respectful of humanity's symbiotic{{w|symbiotic}} relationship with the Earth's natural ecology{{w|ecology}} and cycles.<ref>[http://www.cellonline.org/about-cell/what-is-cell%e2%80%99s-philosophy/ The Center for Ecological Living and Learning (CELL)&ndash;philosophy]</ref> The practice and general philosophy of ecological living is highly interrelated with the overall principles of [[sustainable development]]{{w|sustainable development}}.

Lester R. Brown{{w|Lester R. Brown}}, a prominent environmentalist{{w|environmentalist}} and founder of the Worldwatch Institute{{w|Worldwatch Institute}} and Earth Policy Institute{{w|Earth Policy Institute}}, describes sustainable living in the 21st century as "shifting to a renewable energy-based, reuse/recycle economy with a diversified transport system."<ref>Ross, Greg. [http://web.archive.org/web/20161227004714/http://www.americanscientist.org/bookshelf/pub/lester-brown "An interview with Lester Brown"] ''American Scientist''.</ref>

Appropedia is a green living [[wiki]]{{w|wiki}}, so you can create and edit content to share information and collaborate with others on how we can lighten our [[ecological footprint]]{{w|ecological footprint}} and live in harmony with nature and our environment. A key aim of Appropedia is to provide this information, to support sustainable choices - sharing knowledge to build rich, sustainable lives.

== Definition ==
[[File:Sustainable development and hierarchy of needs.png|thumb|upright=2.0|[[Sustainable development|Sustainable tools]]<ref>Adams, W.M. (2006). [http://web.archive.org/web/20191126174837/http://cmsdata.iucn.org:80/downloads/iucn_future_of_sustanability.pdf "The Future of Sustainability: Re-thinking Environment and Development in the Twenty-first Century."] Report of the IUCN Renowned Thinkers Meeting, 29&ndash;31 January 2006. Retrieved on: 2009-07-25.</ref> to meet fundamental human needs{{w|Maslow's hierarchy of needs}}]]

Green or sustainable living is fundamentally the application of [[sustainability]]{{w|sustainability}} to lifestyle choice and decisions. Sustainability itself is expressed as meeting present ecological, societal, and economical needs without compromising these factors for future generations<ref>U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [http://www.epa.gov/Sustainability "What is sustainability?"] Retrieved on: 2007-08-20.</ref><ref>United Nations General Assembly{{w|United Nations General Assembly}} (2005). [http://web.archive.org/web/20091128195853/http://daccessdds.un.org/doc/UNDOC/GEN/N05/487/60/PDF/N0548760.pdf?OpenElement 2005 World Summit Outcome], Resolution A/60/1, adopted by the General Assembly on 15 September 2005. Retrieved on: 2009-07-25.</ref> Sustainable living can therefore be described as living within the innate carrying capacities defined by these factors.

[[Sustainable design]]{{w|Sustainable design}} and [[sustainable development]]{{w|sustainable development}} are critical factors to sustainable living. Sustainable design encompasses the development of [[appropriate technology]]{{w|appropriate technology}}, which is a staple of sustainable living practices.<ref>{{cite book |last= Fritsch |first= Al |coauthors= Paul Gallimore |title = Healing Appalachia: Sustainable Living Through Appropriate Technology |publisher= University Press of Kentucky |year= 2007 |isbn= 0-8131-2431-X |page= 2}} Unknown retrieval date, revised: 2009-07-25</ref> Sustainable development in turn is the use of these technologies in infrastructure. Sustainable architecture{{w|Sustainable architecture}} and [[sustainable agriculture|agriculture]]{{w|sustainable agriculture}} are the most common examples of this practice.<ref>{{cite book |last=Wheeler |first= Stephen Maxwell |coauthor= Timothy Beatley |title= The Sustainable Urban Development Reader |publisher= Routledge |year= 2004 |isbn= 0-4153-1187-X }}</ref>

== History ==

* '''1854''' Henry David Thoreau{{w|Henry David Thoreau}} published ''Walden{{w|Walden}}'', which is the earliest piece of literature to specifically address the issue of sustainable living.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20090719141836/http://www.walden.org:80/Institute/thoreau/life/BriefChronology.htm The Walden Woods Projects Thoreau Institute] The Thoreau Institute at Walden Woods 2007.</ref>
* '''1954''' The publication of ''Living the Good Life'' by Helen and Scott Nearing{{w|Helen and Scott Nearing}} marked the beginning of the modern day sustainable living movement. The publication paved the way for the "back-to-the-land movement{{w|back-to-the-land movement}}" in the late 1960s and early 1970s.<ref>{{cite book |last= Nearing |first= Scott |coauthor= Helen Nearing |title= Living the Good Life |year= 1953 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20130515194851/http://pabook.libraries.psu.edu/palitmap/bios/Nearing__Scott.html |title=Scott Nearing |author=Eroh, Ryan |publisher=Pabook.libraries.psu.edu |date= |accessdate=2011-03-21}}</ref>
* '''1962''' The publication of ''Silent Spring{{w|Silent Spring}}'' by Rachel Carson{{w|Rachel Carson}} marked another major milestone for the sustainability movement.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rachelcarson.org |title=Rachel Carson's Biography |author=Lear, Linda |publisher=Rachelcarson.org |date= |accessdate=2011-03-21}}</ref>
* '''1972''' Donella Meadows{{w|Donella Meadows}} wrote the international bestseller ''The Limits to Growth{{w|The Limits to Growth}}'', which reported on a study of long-term global trends in [poulation{{w|population}}, [[economics]]{{w|economics}} and the environment{{w|environment (biophysical)}}. It sold millions of copies and was translated into 28 languages.<ref>[http://www.sustainer.org/meadows/index.html SI: Donella Meadows Bio] Sustainability Institute 2004.</ref>
* '''1973''' E. F. Schumacher{{w|E. F. Schumacher}} published a collection of essays on shifting towards sustainable living through the appropriate use of technology in his book ''Small is Beautiful{{w|Small is Beautiful}}''.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20080705110918/http://www.schumacher.org.uk/efschum_bibliography.htm E.F. Schumacher Bibliography] Schumacher UK.</ref>
* '''1992–2002''' The [[United Nations]]{{w|United Nations}} held a series of conferences, which focused on increasing sustainability within societies in order to conserve the Earth's natural resources. The Earth Summit{{w|Earth Summit}} conferences were held in 1972{{w|Conference on the Human Environment}}, 1992 and 2002{{w|Earth Summit 2002}}.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20090205010018/http://www.un.org/esa/sustdev/natlinfo/nsds/nsds.htm National Sustainable Development Strategies] United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs April 2008.</ref>
* '''2007''' the [[United Nations]]{{w|United Nations}} published ''Sustainable Consumption and Production, Promoting Climate-Friendly Household Consumption Patterns'', which promoted sustainable lifestyles in communities and homes.<ref>[http://www.un.org/esa/sustdev/publications/household_consumption.pdf Sustainable Consumption and Production: Promoting Climate-Friendly Household Consumption Patterns] United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs 2007-04-30.</ref>

==Food and agriculture==

===Environmental impacts of industrial agriculture===

Industrial agriculture|Industrial agricultural production{{w|Industrial agriculture}} is highly resource and energy intensive. Industrial agriculture systems typically require heavy [[irrigation]]{{w|irrigation}}, extensive pesticide{{w|Pesticide application}} and [[Fertilizer|fertilizer application]]{{w|Fertilizer}}, intensive tillage{{w|tillage}}, concentrated [[monoculture]]{{w|monoculture}} production, and other continual inputs. As a result of these industrial farming conditions, today’s mounting environmental stresses are further exacerbated. These stresses include: declining water table{{w|water table}}s, chemical leaching{{w|Leaching (agriculture)}}, chemical runoff{{w|Surface runoff}}, [[soil erosion]]{{w|soil erosion}}, land degradation{{w|land degradation}}, loss in biodiversity{{w|biodiversity}}, and other ecological concerns.<ref>Brown, Lester R. ''Plan B 4.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization''. W.W. Norton, 2009.</ref>

===Conventional food distribution and long distance transport===

Conventional{{w|Conventional}} food distribution and long distance transport is additionally resource{{w|resource}} and [[energy]]{{w|energy}} exhaustive. Substantial climate-disrupting carbon emissions{{w|carbon emissions}}, boosted by the transport of food over long distances, are of growing concern as the world faces such global crisis{{w|global crisis}} as natural resource{{w|natural resource}} depletion, [[peak oil]]{{w|peak oil}} and [[climate change]]{{w|climate change}}.<ref>Heinberg, Richard. ''Powerdown: Options and Actions for a Post-Carbon World''. Canada: New Society Publishers, 2004.</ref> “The average American meal currently costs about 1500 miles, and takes about 10 calories{{w|calorie}} of oil and other fossil fuel{{w|fossil fuel}}s to produce a single calorie of food.” <ref name="Astyk, Sharon 2008">Astyk, Sharon. ''Depletion and Abundance: Life on the New Home Front''. Canada: New Society Publishers, 2008.</ref>

===Local and seasonal foods===

A more sustainable means of acquiring food is to purchase locally and seasonally. Buying food from local farmers reduces [[carbon offset]]{{w|carbon offset}}s, caused by long-distance food transport, and stimulates the local economy.<ref name="Astyk, Sharon 2008"/> Local, small-scale farming operations also typically utilize more sustainable methods of agriculture than conventional industrial farming systems such as decreased tillage, nutrient cycling{{w|nutrient cycling}}, fostered biodiversity and reduced chemical pesticide and fertilizer applications.<ref name="Shiva, Vandana 2000">Shiva, Vandana. ''Stolen Harvest: The Hijacking of the Global Food Supply''. Cambridge, MA: South End Press, 2000.</ref> Adapting a more regional, seasonally-based diet is more sustainable as it entails purchasing less energy and resource demanding produce that naturally grow within a local area and require no long-distance transport. These vegetables and fruits are also grown and harvested within their suitable growing season{{w|growing season}}. Thus, seasonal food{{w|seasonal food}} farming does not require energy intensive [[greenhouse]]{{w|greenhouse}} production, extensive irrigation, plastic packaging and long-distance transport from importing non-regional foods, and other environmental stressors.<ref name="Seymour, John 2003">Seymour, John. ''The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It''. London: DK Publishing, 2003.</ref> Local, seasonal produce is typically fresher, unprocessed and argued to be more nutritious. Local produce also contains less to no chemical residues from applications required for long-distance shipping and handling.<ref>Princen, Thomas. ''The Logic of Sufficiency''. New York: MIT Press, 2005.</ref> Farmers' markets{{w|Farmers' market}}, public events where local small-scale farmers gather and sell their produce, are a good source for obtaining local food and knowledge about local farming productions. As well as promoting localization of food, farmers markets are a central gathering place for community interaction.<ref name="Todd, J 1994">Todd, J. and N. J. Todd. ''From Eco-Cities to Living Machines: Principles of Ecological Design''. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books, 1994.</ref> Another way to become involved in regional food distribution is by joining a local community-supported agriculture{{w|community-supported agriculture}} (CSA). A CSA consists of a community of growers and consumers who pledge to support a farming operation while equally sharing the risks and benefits of food production. CSA's usually involve a system of weekly pick-ups of locally farmed vegetables and fruits, sometimes including dairy products, meat and special food items such as baked goods.<ref>Nabhan, Gary. ''Coming Home to Eat''. Berkeley, CA: W.W. Norton, 2002.</ref> Considering the previously noted rising environmental crisis, the United States and much of the world is facing immense vulnerability to famine. Local food production ensures food security if potential transportation disruptions and climatic, economical, and sociopolitical disasters were to occur.<ref name="Astyk, Sharon 2008"/>

===Reducing meat consumption===

Industrial meat production also involves high environmental costs such as land degradation{{w|land degradation}}, [[soil erosion]]{{w|soil erosion}} and depletion of natural resource{{w|natural resource}}s, especially pertaining to water and food.<ref name="Seymour, John 2003"/> For more information on the environmental impacts of meat production and consumption, see the ethics of eating meat{{w|ethics of eating meat}}. Reducing meat consumption, perhaps to a few meals a week, or adapting a vegetarian or vegan diet, alleviates the demand for environmentally damaging industrial meat production. Buying and consuming organically-raised, free range{{w|free range}} or grass fed meat{{w|Grass fed}} is another alternative towards more sustainable meat consumption.<ref name="Shiva, Vandana 2000"/>

===Organic farming===

Purchasing and supporting organic products is another fundamental contribution to sustainable living. [[Organic farming]]{{w|Organic farming}} is a rapidly emerging trend in the food industry and in the web of sustainability. According to the USDA{{w|USDA}} National Organic Standards Board{{w|National Organic Standards Board}} (NOSB), [[organic agriculture]]{{w|organic agriculture}} is defined as "an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. It is based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain, or enhance ecological harmony. The primary goal of organic agriculture is to optimize the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil life, plants, animals and people." Upon sustaining these goals, organic agriculture uses techniques such as crop rotation{{w|crop rotation}}, [[permaculture]]{{w|permaculture}}, [[compost]]{{w|compost}}, [[green manure]]{{w|green manure}} and biological pest control{{w|biological pest control}}. In addition, organic farming prohibits or strictly limits the use of manufactured fertilizers and pesticides, plant growth regulators{{w|plant growth regulators}} such as hormones{{w|hormones}}, livestock antibiotics{{w|antibiotics}}, food additives{{w|food additives}} and genetically modified organisms{{w|genetically modified organisms}}.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20131026231030/http://extension.agron.iastate.edu/organicag/whatis.html Organic Agriculture - What is Organic Agriculture?] Iowa State University. 2008. Web. Retrieved on: 18 Nov 2010.</ref> Organically farmed products include vegetables, fruit, grains, herbs, meat, dairy, eggs, fibers, and flowers. See organic certification{{w|organic certification}} for more information.

===Urban gardening===

[[File:GreenhouseCLOSEUP.jpg|thumb|[[Construction of an Affordable Greenhouse]]]]
In addition to local, small-scale farms, there has been a recent emergence in [[urban agriculture]]{{w|urban agriculture}} expanding from [[community gardens]]{{w|community gardens}} to private home gardens{{w|home gardens}}. With this trend, both farmers and ordinary people are becoming involved in food production{{w|food production}}. A network of urban farming systems helps to further ensure regional food security and encourages self-sufficiency and cooperative interdependence within communities.<ref>Flores, H.C. ''Food Not Lawns: How to Turn Your Yard into a Garden and Your Neighborhood into a Community''. New York: Chelsea Green, 2006.</ref> With every bite of food raised from urban gardens, negative environmental impacts are reduced in numerous ways. For instance, vegetables and fruits raised within small-scale gardens and farms are not grown with tremendous applications of nitrogen fertilizer{{w|nitrogen fertilizer}} required for industrial agricultural operations. The nitrogen fertilizers cause toxic chemical leaching and runoff that enters our water tables. Nitrogen fertilizer also produces [[nitrous oxide]]{{w|nitrous oxide}}, a more damaging [[greenhouse gas]]{{w|greenhouse gas}} than carbon dioxide{{w|carbon dioxide}}. Local, community-grown food also requires no imported, long-distance transport which further depletes our fossil fuel{{w|fossil fuel}} reserves.<ref>Nyerges, Christopher. ''Urban Wilderness: a guidebook to resourceful city living''. Culver, CA: Peace Press, 1979.</ref> In developing more efficiency per land acre, urban gardens can be started in a wide variety of areas: in vacant lots, public parks, private yards, church and school yards, on roof tops (roof-top gardens{{w|roof-top garden}}), and many other places. Communities can work together in changing zoning limitations in order for public and private gardens to be permissible.<ref>Hemenway, Toby. ''Gaia’s Garden''. New York: Chelsea Green, 2000.</ref> Aesthetically pleasing edible landscaping{{w|edible landscaping}} plants can also be incorporated into city landscaping such as blueberry bushes, grapevines trained on an arbor, pecan trees, etc.<ref name="Todd, J 1994"/> With as small a scale as home or community farming, sustainable and organic farming methods can easily be utilized. Such sustainable, organic farming techniques include: [[composting]]{{w|composting}}, biological pest control{{w|biological pest control}}, crop rotation{{w|crop rotation}}, mulching{{w|mulching}}, drip irrigation{{w|drip irrigation}}, nutrient cycling{{w|nutrient cycling}} and [[permaculture]]{{w|permaculture}}.<ref>Warde, Jon, ed. ''The Backyard Builder: Over 150 Projects for Your Garden, Home and Yard''. New York: Random House, 1994.</ref> For more information on sustainable farming systems, see [[sustainable agriculture]]{{w|sustainable agriculture}}.

===Food preservation and storage===

Preserving and storing foods reduces reliance on long-distance transported food and the market industry. Home-grown foods can be preserved and stored outside of their growing season and continually consumed throughout the year, enhancing self-sufficiency and independence from the supermarket. Food can be preserved and saved by dehydration{{w|Dehydration (food)}}, freezing{{w|Freezing (food)}}, vacuum packing{{w|vacuum packing}}, canning{{w|canning}}, bottling{{w|bottling}}, pickling{{w|pickling}} and jellying.<ref>Ciperthwaite, Wm. ''A Handmade Life: In Search of Simplicity''. New York: Chelsea Green, 2004.</ref> For more information, see [[food preservation]]{{w|food preservation}}.
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===Food and agriculture projects and organizations===
The following Appropedia [[:Category:Projects|projects]] and [[:Category:Organizations|organizations]] are related to green living with food and agriculture.

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==Construction==

Sustainable homes are built using sustainable methods, materials, and facilitate green practices, enabling a sustainable lifestyle. Their construction and maintenance have neutral impacts on the Earth. Oftentimes, if necessary, they are close in proximity to essential services such as grocery stores, schools, daycares, work, or public transit making it possible to commit to sustainable transportation choices.<ref>Jeffery, Yvonne, Michael Grosvenor, and Liz Barclay. ''Green Living for Dummies.'' Indianapolis, IN: Wiley Pub., 2008. Print.</ref> Sometimes, they are [[off-the-grid]]{{w|off-the-grid}} homes that do not require any public energy, water, or sewer service. 

If not off-the-grid, sustainable homes may be linked to a grid supplied by a power plant that is using sustainable power sources, buying power as is normal convention. Additionally, sustainable homes may be connected to a grid, but generate their own electricity through renewable means and sell any excess to a utility. There are two common methods to approaching this option: net metering and double metering.<ref name="McDilda, Diane Gow 2007">McDilda, Diane Gow. ''The Everything Green Living Book: Easy Ways to Conserve Energy, Protect Your Family's Health, and Help save the Environment.'' Avon, MA: Adams Media, 2007. Print.</ref> 

Net metering uses the common meter that is installed in most homes, running forward when power is used from the grid, and running backward when power is put into the grid (which allows them to “net“ out their total energy use, putting excess energy into the grid when not needed, and using energy from the grid during peak hours, when you may not be able to produce enough immediately). Power companies can quickly purchase the power that is put back into the grid, as it is being produced. Double metering involves installing two meters: one measuring electricity consumed, the other measuring electricity created. Additionally, or in replace of selling their renewable energy, sustainable home owners may choose to bank their excess energy by using it to charge batteries. This gives them the option to use the power later during less favorable power-generating times (ie: night-time, when there has been no wind, etc), and to be completely independent of the electrical grid{{w|electrical grid}}.<ref name="ReferenceA">McDilda, Diane Gow. ''The Everything Green Living Book: Easy Ways to Conserve Energy, Protect Your Family's Health, and Help save the Environment''. Avon, MA: Adams Media, 2007. Print.</ref> 

Sustainably designed{{w|Sustainable design}} houses are generally sited so as to create as little of a negative impact on the surrounding ecosystem{{w|ecosystem}} as possible, oriented to the sun so that it creates the best possible microclimate{{w|microclimate}} (typically, the long axis of the house or building should be oriented east-west), and provide natural shading or wind barriers where and when needed, among many other considerations. The design of a sustainable shelter affords the options it has later (ie: using passive solar lighting and heating{{w|Passive solar building design}}, creating temperature buffer zones by adding porches, deep overhangs to help create favorable microclimates, etc).<ref name="ReferenceA"/><ref name="Hamilton, Andy 2009">Hamilton, Andy, and Dave Hamilton. ''The Self-sufficient-ish Bible: an Eco-living Guide for the 21st Century.'' London: Hodder & Stoughton, 2009. Print.</ref> Sustainably constructed houses involve environmentally-friendly management of waste building materials such as recycling and composting, use non-toxic and renewable, recycled, reclaimed, or low-impact production materials that have been created and treated in a sustainable fashion (such as using organic or water-based finishes), use as much locally available materials and tools as possible so as to reduce the need for transportation, and use low-impact production methods (methods that minimize effects on the environment).<ref>Snell, Clarke, and Tim Callahan. ''Building Green: a Complete How-to Guide to Alternative Building Methods : Earth Plaster, Straw Bale, Cordwood, Cob, Living Roofs.'' New York: Lark, 2005. Print.</ref><ref name="ReferenceB">Hamilton, Andy, and Dave Hamilton. ''The Self-sufficient-ish Bible: an Eco-living Guide for the 21st Century''. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 2009. Print.</ref>

Many materials can be considered a “green” material until its background is revealed. Any material that has used toxic or carcinogenic chemicals in its treatment or manufacturing (such as formaldehyde{{w|formaldehyde}} in glues used in woodworking), has traveled extensively from its source or manufacturer, or has been cultivated or harvested in an unsustainable manner might not be considered green. In order for any material to be considered green, it must be resource efficient, not compromise [[indoor air quality]]{{w|indoor air quality}} or [[water conservation]]{{w|water conservation}}, and be energy efficient (both in processing and when in use in the shelter).<ref name="ReferenceB"/> Resource efficiency can be achieved by using as much recycled content, reusable or recyclable content, materials that employ recycled or recyclable packaging, locally available material, salvaged or remanufactured material, material that employs resource efficient manufacturing, and long-lasting material as possible.<ref>[http://www.calrecycle.ca.gov/greenbuilding/Materials/ Green Building Materials: Sustainable Building.] CalRecycle. Web. 23 Oct. 2010.</ref>

=== List of some sustainable materials ===
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*[[Adobe]]{{w|Adobe}}
*[[Bamboo]]{{w|Bamboo}}
*[[Cellulose insulation]]{{w|Cellulose insulation}}
*Cob{{w|Cob (material)}}
*Composite wood (when made from reclaimed hardwood sawdust and reclaimed or recycled plastic)
*[[Cordwood construction|Cordwood]]{{w|Cordwood construction}}
*Cork{{w|Cork (material)}}
*[[Hemp]]{{w|Hemp}}
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*Insulating concrete forms{{w|Insulating concrete form}}
*Lime render{{w|Lime render}}
*Linoleum{{w|Linoleum}}
*Lumber from [[Forest Stewardship Council]]{{w|Forest Stewardship Council}} approved sources
*Natural rubber{{w|Natural rubber}}
*Natural fiber{{w|Natural fiber}} (coir{{w|coir}}, wool{{w|wool}}, jute{{w|jute}}, etc)
*Organic cotton insulation
*Papercrete{{w|Papercrete}}
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*Rammed Earth{{w|Rammed Earth}}
*Reclaimed stone
*Reclaimed brick
*Recycled metal
*Recycled concrete
*Recycled paper
*Soy-based adhesive
*Soy insulation
*Straw Bale{{w|Straw-bale construction}}
*Structural insulated panel{{w|Structural insulated panel}}
{{Columns|end}}

Insulation{{w|Building insulation}} of a sustainable home is important because of the energy it conserves throughout the life of the home. Well insulated walls and lofts using green materials are a must as it reduces or, in combination with a house that is well designed, eliminates the need for heating and cooling altogether. Installation of insulation varies according to the type of insulation being used. Typically, lofts are insulated by strips of insulating material laid between rafters. Walls with cavities are done in much the same manner. For walls that do not have cavities behind them, solid-wall insulation may be necessary which can decrease internal space and can be expensive to install.<ref name="Hamilton, Andy 2009"/> Energy-efficient windows are another important factor in insulation. Simply assuring that windows (and doors) are well sealed greatly reduces energy loss in a home.<ref name="McDilda, Diane Gow 2007"/> Double or Triple glazed windows are the typical method to insulating windows, trapping gas or creating a vacuum between two or three panes of glass allowing heat to be trapped inside or out.<ref name="ReferenceA"/><ref name="ReferenceB"/> Low-emissivity{{w|Low-emissivity}} or Low-E glass is another option for window insulation. It is a coating on windowpanes of a thin, transparent layer of metal oxide and works by reflecting heat back to its source, keeping the interior warm during the winter and cool during the summer. Simply hanging heavy-backed curtains in front of windows may also help their insulation.<ref name="Hamilton, Andy 2009"/> “Superwindows,” mentioned in Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution{{w|Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution}}, became available in the 1980s and use a combination of many available technologies, including two to three transparent low-e coatings, multiple panes of glass, and a heavy gas filling. Although more expensive, they are said to be able to insulate four and a half times better than a typical double-glazed windows.<ref>Hawken, Paul, Amory B. Lovins, and L. Hunter Lovins. ''Natural Capitalism: Creating the next Industrial Revolution.'' Boston: Little, Brown and, 1999. Print.</ref> 

Equipping roofs with highly reflective material (such as aluminum) increases a roof's [[albedo]]{{w|albedo}} and will help reduce the amount of heat it absorbs, hence, the amount of energy needed to cool the building it is on. [[Green roofs]]{{w|Green roofs}} or “living roofs” are a popular choice for thermally insulating a building. They are also popular for their ability to catch storm-water runoff and, when in the broader picture of a community, reduce the heat island effect (see urban heat island{{w|urban heat island}}) thereby reducing energy costs of the entire area. It is arguable that they are able to replace the physical “footprint” that the building creates, helping reduce the adverse environmental impacts of the building‘s presence.<ref>Cutlip, Jamie. [http://web.archive.org/web/20130903054211/http://extension.ucdavis.edu:80/unit/green_building_and_sustainability/pdf/resources/green_roof.pdf Green Roofs: A Sustainable Technology.] UC Davis Extension, Oct. 2006. Web. 26 Oct. 2010.</ref><ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20160422083804/http://www.hrt.msu.edu/greenroof/ GREEN ROOF RESEARCH PROGRAM.] Michigan State University - Department of Horticulture. Web. 27 Oct. 2010.</ref> 

Energy efficiency and water conservation are also major considerations in sustainable housing. If using appliances, computers, HVAC{{w|HVAC}} systems, electronics, or lighting the sustainable-minded often look for an Energy Star{{w|Energy Star}} label, which is government-backed and holds stricter regulations in energy and water efficiency than is required by law.<ref>[http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_how_earn How a Product Earns the ENERGY STAR Label : ENERGY STAR."] ENERGY STAR. Web. 27 Oct. 2010.</ref><ref>Brown, Lester Russell. ''Plan B 4.0: Mobilizing to save Civilization''. New York: W.W. Norton, 2009. Print.</ref> Ideally, a sustainable shelter should be able to completely run the appliances it uses using renewable energy and should strive to have a neutral impact on the Earth’s water sources<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20201026130921/https://www.monolake.org/about/waterconservation Water Conservation]. Mono Lake Committee. Web. 27 Oct. 2010.</ref>

[[Greywater]]{{w|Greywater}}, including water from washing machines, sinks, showers and baths may be reused in landscape irrigation and toilets as a method of water conservation. Likewise, [[rainwater harvesting]]{{w|rainwater harvesting}} from storm-water runoff is also a sustainable method to conserve water usage in a sustainable shelter.<ref>[http://www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/natres/06702.html Graywater Reuse and Rainwater Harvesting]. Colorado State University Extension. Web. 27 Oct. 2010.</ref> Sustainable urban drainage systems{{w|Sustainable urban drainage systems}} replicate the natural systems that clean water in wildlife and implement them in a city’s drainage system so as to minimize contaminated water and unnatural rates of runoff into the environment.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20110908005611/http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/sectors/99816.aspx Environment Agency - Techniques]. Environment Agency. Web. 27 Oct. 2010.</ref><ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20120215150110/http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk:80/business/sectors/36998.aspx Environment Agency - Sustainable Drainage Systems]. Environment Agency. Web. 27 Oct. 2010.</ref>

See related articles in: [[Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design|LEED]]{{w|Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design}} (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
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==Energy==

When needed, sustainable living requires the use of [[sustainable energy]]{{w|sustainable energy}}. This involves the use of power in such a way that fulfills the requirements of the present without compromising the requirements of the future. Or, in short, using power sources and in such a way that can be sustained infinitely. This means the energy source must be [[Renewable energy|renewable]]{{w|Renewable energy}}, and must not harm the environment or the people working under it. The most commonly used renewable sources of energy are: [[biomass]]{{w|biomass}}, [[Hydropower|water]]{{w|Hydropower}}, geothermal{{w|Geothermal energy}}, [[Wind power|wind]]{{w|Wind power}}, and [[Solar energy|solar]]{{w|Solar energy}}. 

As mentioned under Shelter, some sustainable households may choose to produce their own renewable energy, while others may choose to purchase it through the grid from a power company that harnesses sustainable sources (also mentioned previously are the methods of metering the production and consumption of electricity in a household). Purchasing sustainable energy, however, may simply not be possible in some locations due to its limited availability. 6 out of the 50 states in the US do not offer green energy, for example. For those that do, its consumers typically buy a fixed amount or a percentage of their monthly consumption from a company of their choice and the bought green energy is fed into the entire national grid. Technically, in this case, the green energy is not being fed directly to the household that buys it.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20110710173128/http://www.consumerreports.org:80/cro/home-garden/news/2007/07/buy-green-power-and-electricity-to-help-the-environment/overview/0707_buying_green_power_ov.htm Buy Green Power and Electricity to Help the Environment]. Consumer Reports: Expert Product Reviews and Product Ratings from Our Test Labs. Consumers Union of U.S., July 2007. Web. 28 Oct. 2010.</ref> In this case, it is possible that the actual amount of green electricity that the buying household receives is a small fraction of their total incoming electricity. This may or may not depend on the amount being purchased. The purpose of buying green electricity is to support their utility’s effort in producing sustainable energy.<ref name="ReferenceC">Hamilton, Andy, and Dave Hamilton. The Self-sufficient-ish Bible: an Eco-living Guide for the 21st Century. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 2009. Print.</ref> Producing sustainable energy on an individual household or community basis is much more flexible, but can still be limited in the richness of the sources that the location may afford (some locations may not be rich in renewable energy sources while others may have an abundance of it). 

When generating renewable energy and feeding it back into the grid (in participating countries such as the US and Germany), producing households are typically paid at least the full standard electricity rate by their utility and are also given separate renewable energy credits that they can then sell to their utility, additionally (utilities are interested in buying these renewable energy credits because it allows them to claim that they produce renewable energy). In some special cases, producing households may be paid up to four times the standard electricity rate, but this is not common.<ref>Galbraith, Kate. [http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/13/business/energy-environment/13solar.html Europe's Way of Encouraging Solar Power Arrives in the US]. Editorial. ''The New York Times''. 13 Mar. 2009, New York ed., Section B sec.: B1. 12 Mar. 2009. Web. 28 Oct. 2010.</ref>

Solar power harnesses the energy of the sun to make electricity. Two typical methods for converting solar energy into electricity are [[Solar cells|photo-voltaic cells]]{{w|Solar cells}} that are organized into panels and [[concentrated solar power]]{{w|concentrated solar power}}, which uses mirrors to concentrate sunlight to either heat a fluid that runs an electrical generator{{w|electrical generator}} via a steam turbine{{w|steam turbine}} or [[heat engine]]{{w|heat engine}}, or to simply cast onto photo-voltaic cells.<ref>[http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/csp_program.html Solar Energy Technologies Program: Concentrating Solar Power]. Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. US Department of Energy, 19 Oct. 2010. Web. 31 Oct. 2010.</ref><ref name="autogenerated2007">McDilda, Diane Gow. The Everything Green Living Book: Easy Ways to Conserve Energy, Protect Your Family's Health, and Help save the Environment. Avon, MA: Adams Media, 2007. Print.</ref> The energy created by photo-voltaic cells is a [[direct current]]{{w|direct current}} and has to be converted to [[alternating current]]{{w|alternating current}} before it can be used in a household. At this point, users can choose to either store this direct current in batteries for later use, or use an AC/DC inverter for immediate use. To get the best out of a solar panel, the angle of incidence{{w|angle of incidence}} of the sun should be between 20-50 degrees. Solar power via photo-voltaic cells are usually the most expensive method to harnessing renewable energy, but is falling in price as technology advances and public interest increases. It has the advantages of being portable, easy to use on an individual basis, readily available for government grants and incentives, and being flexible in regards to location (though it is most efficient when used in hot, arid areas since they tend to be the most sunny).<ref name="ReferenceC"/><ref name="autogenerated2007"/> For those that are lucky, affordable rental schemes may be found.<ref name="ReferenceC"/> Concentrated solar power plants are typically used on more of a community scale rather than an individual household scale, because of the amount of energy they are able to harness but can be done on an individual scale with a parabolic reflector{{w|parabolic reflector}}.<ref name="autogenerated2007"/><ref name="Jeffery, Yvonne 2008">Jeffery, Yvonne, Michael Grosvenor, and Liz Barclay. Green Living for Dummies. Indianapolis, IN: Wiley Pub., 2008. Print.</ref>

[[Solar thermal energy]]{{w|Solar thermal energy}} is harnessed by collecting direct heat from the sun. One of the most common ways that this method is used by households is through solar water heating{{w|solar water heating}}. In a broad perspective, these systems involve well insulated tanks for storage and collectors, are either passive or active systems (active systems have pumps that continuously circulate water through the collectors and storage tank) and, in active systems, involve either directly heating the water that will be used or heating a non-freezing heat-transfer fluid that then heats the water that will be used. Passive systems are cheaper than active systems since they do not require a pumping system (instead, they take advantage of the natural movement of hot water rising above cold water to cycle the water being used through the collector and storage tank).<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20120825233625/http://www.energysavers.gov:80/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12850 Energy Savers: Solar Water Heaters]. Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. US Department of Energy, 20 Oct. 2010. Web. 28 Oct. 2010.</ref>

Other methods of harnessing solar power are solar space heating{{w|Solar combisystem}} (for heating internal building spaces), solar drying (for drying wood chips, fruits, grains, etc), [[solar cookers]]{{w|solar cookers}}, [[Solar distillation|solar distillers]]{{w|Solar distillation}}, and other [[passive solar]]{{w|passive solar}} technologies (simply, harnessing sunlight without any mechanical means). 

Wind power is harnessed through turbines, set on tall towers (typically 20’ or 6m with 10‘ or 3m diameter blades for an individual household‘s needs) that power a generator that creates electricity.<ref name="ReferenceC"/><ref name="autogenerated2007"/> They typically require an average of wind speed of 9&nbsp;mi/hr (14&nbsp;km/hr) to be worth their investment (as prescribed by the US Department of Energy), and are capable of paying for themselves within their lifetimes. Wind turbines in urban areas usually need to be mounted at least 30’ (10m) in the air in order to receive enough wind and to be void of nearby obstructions (such as neighboring buildings). Mounting a wind turbine may also require permission from authorities. Wind turbines have been criticized for the noise they produce, their appearance, and the argument that they can affect the migratory patterns of birds (their blades obstruct passage in the sky). Wind turbines are much more feasible for those living in rural areas<ref name="ReferenceC"/> and are one of the most cost-effective forms of renewable energy per kilowatt, approaching the cost of fossil fuels, and have quick paybacks.<ref name="autogenerated2007"/>

For those that have a body of water flowing at an adequate speed (or falling from an adequate height) on their property, [[hydroelectricity]]{{w|hydroelectricity}} may be an option. On a large scale, hydroelectricity, in the form of dams, has adverse environmental and social impacts. When on a small scale, however, in the form of single turbines, hydroelectricity is very sustainable. Single water turbines or even a group of single turbines are not environmentally or socially disruptive. On an individual household basis, single turbines are the probably the only economically feasible route (but can have high paybacks and is one of the most efficient methods of renewable energy production). It is more common for an eco-village to use this method rather than a singular household.<ref name="ReferenceC"/> 

Geothermal energy production involves harnessing the hot water or steam below the earth’s surface, in reservoirs, to produce energy. Because the hot water or steam that is used is reinjected back into the reservoir, this source is considered sustainable. However, those that plan on getting their electricity from this source should be aware that there is controversy over the lifespan of each geothermal reservoir as some believe that their lifespans are naturally limited (they cool down over time, making geothermal energy production there eventually impossible). This method is often large scale as the system required to harness geothermal energy can be complex and requires deep drilling equipment. There do exist small individual scale geothermal operations, however, which harness reservoirs very close to the Earth’s surface, avoiding the need for extensive drilling and sometimes even taking advantage of lakes or ponds where there is already a depression. In this case, the heat is captured and sent to a geothermal heat pump{{w|geothermal heat pump}} system located inside the shelter or facility that needs it (oftentimes, this heat is used directly to warm a greenhouse during the colder months).<ref name="Jeffery, Yvonne 2008"/> Although geothermal energy is available everywhere on Earth, practicality and cost-effectiveness varies, directly related to the depth required to reach reservoirs. Places such as the Philippines, Hawaii, Alaska, Iceland, California, and Nevada have geothermal reservoirs closer to the Earth’s surface, making its production cost-effective.<ref name="autogenerated2007"/> 

Biomass power is created when any biological matter is burned as fuel. As with the case of using green materials in a household, it is best to use as much locally available material as possible so as to reduce the carbon footprint created by transportation. Although burning biomass for fuel releases carbon dioxide{{w|carbon dioxide}}, sulfur compounds, and nitrogen compounds into the atmosphere, a major concern in a sustainable lifestyle, the amount that is released is sustainable (it will not contribute to a rise in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere). This is because the biological matter that is being burned releases the same amount of carbon dioxide that it consumed during its lifetime.<ref name="ReferenceC"/><ref name="autogenerated2007"/> However, burning [[biodiesel]]{{w|biodiesel}} and bioethanol (see [[biofuel]]{{w|biofuel}}) when created from virgin material, is increasingly controversial and may or may not be considered sustainable because it inadvertently increases global poverty, the clearing of more land for new agriculture fields (the source of the biofuel is also the same source of food), and may use unsustainable growing methods (such as the use of environmentally harmful pesticides and fertilizers).<ref name="ReferenceC"/><ref>Brown, Lester Russell. Plan B 4.0: Mobilizing to save Civilization. New York: W.W. Norton, 2009. Print.</ref><ref name="autogenerated2007"/>

=== List of organic matter than can be burned for fuel ===
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*[[Biogas]]{{w|Biogas}}
*Manure
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*Used vegetable oil
*Wood
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Digestion of organic material to produce methane is becoming an increasingly popular method of biomass energy production. Materials such as waste sludge can be digested to release methane gas that can then be burnt to produce electricity. Methane gas is also a natural by-product of landfills, full of decomposing waste, and can be harnessed here to produce electricity as well. The advantage in burning methane gas is that is prevents the methane from being released into the atmosphere, exacerbating the greenhouse effect. Although this method of biomass energy production is typically large scale (done in landfills), it can be done on a smaller individual or community scale as well.<ref name="autogenerated2007"/>
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==Health and Safety==

===Waste===

As populations and resource demands climb, waste production contributes to [[Greenhouse gas#Greenhouse gas emissions|emissions]]{{w|Greenhouse gas#Greenhouse gas emissions|emissions}} of carbon dioxide{{w|carbon dioxide}}, leaching of hazardous materials into the soil and waterways, and [[methane]]{{w|methane}} emissions. In America alone, over the course of a decade, 500 trillion pounds of American resources will have been transformed into nonproductive wastes and gases.<ref>Hawken, Paul, Amory Lovins, and L. Hunter Lovins. ''Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution.'' New York City: Little, Brown and Company, 1999. Print.</ref> Thus, a crucial component of sustainable living is being waste conscious. One can do this by reducing waste, reusing commodities, and recycling. 

There are a number of ways to reduce waste in sustainable living. One method is reducing paper waste, such as by taking action to cancel junk mail and move paper transactions to an online document. Another method to reduce waste is to buy in bulk, which reduces packaging materials. Preventing food waste is an alternative to organic waste compiling to create costly methane emissions. Food waste can be reintegrated into the environment through [[composting]]{{w|composting}}. Composting can be carried out at home or locally, with community composting. An additional example of how to reduce waste is being cognizant of not buying materials with limited use in excess, such as paint. Reduction aides in reducing the toxicity of waste if non-hazardous or less hazardous items are selected.<ref>[http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/rrr/recycle.htm Reduce] United States Environmental Protection Agency. 5 May 2010. Web 10 Nov. 2010</ref>

By reusing materials, one lives sustainably by not contributing to the addition of waste to landfills. Reuse saves natural resources{{w|natural resources}} by decreasing the necessity of raw material{{w|raw material}} extraction. [[Recycling]]{{w|Recycling}}, a process that breaks down used items into raw materials in order to make new materials, is a particularly useful means of contributing to the renewal of goods. Recycling incorporates three primary processes; collection and processing, manufacturing, and purchasing recycled products.<ref>[http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/rrr/recycle.htm Wastes – Resource Conservation – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle] United States Environmental Protection Agency. 05 May 2010. Web 10 Nov. 2010</ref> An offshoot of recycling, [[upcycling]]{{w|upcycling}}, strives to convert a material into something of similar or greater value in its second life.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20110113051518/http://www.sustainabilitydictionary.com:80/u/upcycle.php UpCycle] Sustainability Management. Presidio Graduate School. Web. 10 Nov. 2010</ref> By integrating measures of reusing, reducing, and recycling one can effectively reduce production of waste and use materials in a sustainable manner.
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==Transport==

With rising [[peak oil]]{{w|peak oil}} concerns, climate warming{{w|climate warming}} exacerbated by carbon emissions{{w|carbon emissions}} and high energy prices, the conventional automobile industry{{w|automobile industry}} is becoming less and less feasible to the conversation of sustainability. Revisions of [[Public transport|urban transport]]{{w|Public transport}} systems that foster mobility, low-cost transportation and healthier urban environments are needed. Such urban transport systems should consist of a combination of rail transport{{w|rail transport}}, bus transport{{w|bus transport}}, [[bicycle]]{{w|bicycle}} pathways and pedestrian{{w|pedestrian}} walkways{{w|walkways}}. Public transport systems such as underground rail systems and bus transit systems shift huge numbers of people away from reliance on car mobilization{{w|mobilization}} and dramatically reduce the rate of carbon emissions caused by automobile transport.<ref name="Brown, Lester R. 2009">Brown, Lester R. ''Plan B 4.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization''. New York: W.W. Norton, 2009.</ref> Carpooling{{w|Carpooling}} is another alternative for reducing oil consumption and carbon emissions by transit. 

In comparison with automobiles, bicycles are a paradigm of energy efficient personal transportation. Bicycles increase mobility while alleviating congestion{{w|Traffic congestion}}, lowering [[Air pollution|air]]{{w|Air pollution}} and noise pollution{{w|noise pollution}}, and increasing physical exercise{{w|physical exercise}}. Most importantly, they do not emit climate-disturbing carbon dioxide{{w|carbon dioxide}}.<ref name="Brown, Lester R. 2009"/> [[Bike-sharing]]{{w|Bike-sharing}} programs are beginning to boom throughout the world and are modeled in leading cities such as Paris{{w|Paris}}, Amsterdam{{w|Amsterdam}} and London{{w|London}}. Bike-sharing programs offer kiosks{{w|kiosks}} and docking stations that supply hundreds to thousands of bikes for rental throughout a city through small deposits or affordable memberships. 

A recent boom has occurred in electric bikes{{w|electric bikes}} especially in China and other Asian countries. Electric bikes are similar to plug-in hybrid{{w|plug-in hybrid}} vehicles in that they are battery powered and can be plugged into the provincial electric grid{{w|electric grid}} for recharging as needed. In contrast to plug-in hybrid cars, electric bikes do not directly use any [[fossil fuels]]{{w|fossil fuels}}. Adequate sustainable urban transportation is dependent upon proper city infrastructure{{w|infrastructure}} and planning that incorporates efficient public transit along with bicycle and pedestrian-friendly pathways.<ref>Brown, Lester R.'' Plan B 4.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization''. New York: W.W. Norton, 2009.</ref>
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==Water==

A major factor of sustainable living involves that which no human can live without, [[water]]{{w|water}}. Unsustainable water usage has far reaching implications for humankind. Currently, humans use one-fourth of the earth’s total water in natural circulation, and over half the accessible runoff{{w|Surface runoff}}.<ref name="Hawken, Paul 1999">Hawken, Paul, Amory Lovins, and L. Hunter Lovins. ''Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution''. New York City: Little, Brown and Company, 1999. Print.</ref> Additionally, [[population growth]]{{w|population growth}} and water demand is ever increasing. Thus, it is necessary to use available water more efficiently. In sustainable living, one can use water more sustainably through a series of simple, everyday measures. These measures involve considering indoor home appliance{{w|home appliance}} efficiency, outdoor water use, and daily water use awareness. 

===Indoor home appliances===

Housing and commercial buildings{{w|commercial buildings}} account for 12 percent of America’s freshwater withdrawals.<ref name="Hawken, Paul 1999"/> A typical American single family home uses about 70 gallons per person per day indoors.<ref name="Hawken, Paul 1999"/> This usage can be reduced by simple alterations in behavior and upgrades to appliance{{w|Home appliance}} quality.

====Toilets====

[[Toilets]]{{w|Toilets}} account for almost 30% of residential indoor water use in the United States.<ref name="autogenerated1">[http://www.epa.gov/watersense/pubs/indoor.html Indoor Water Use in the United States] WaterSense: An EPA Partnership Program. US Environmental Protection Agency, 09 Nov. 2010. Web. 10 Nov. 2010.</ref> One flush of a standard US toilet requires more water than most individuals, and many families, in the world use for all their needs in an entire day.<ref>Hawken, Paul, Amory Lovins, and L. Hunter Lovins. ''Natural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution.'' New York City: Little, Brown and Company, 1999. Print.</ref>
A home’s toilet water sustainability can be improved in one of two ways: improving the current toilet or installing a more efficient toilet. To improve the current toilet, one possible method is to put weighted plastic bottles in the toilet tank. Also, there are inexpensive tank banks or float booster available for purchase. A [http://web.archive.org/web/20160321134131/http://green-logic.net/toilet-tank-bank.html tank bank] is a plastic bag to be filled with water and hung in the toilet tank. A [http://www.floatbooster.com/Product.html float booster] attaches underneath the float ball of pre-1986 three and a half gallon capacity toilets. It allows these toilets to operate at the same valve and float setting but significantly reduces their water level, saving between one and one and a third gallons of water per flush. A major waste of water in existing toilets is leaks. A slow toilet leak is undetectable to the eye, but can waste hundreds of gallons each month. One way to check this is to put food dye in the tank, and to see if the water in the toilet bowl turns the same color. In the event of a leaky flapper, one can replace it with an [http://eartheasy.com/water-conservation/indoor/adjustable-toilet-flapper adjustable toilet flapper], which allows self adjustment of the amount of water per flush.

If installing a new toilet there are a number of options to obtain the most water efficient model. A low flush toilet{{w|low flush toilet}} uses one to two gallons per flush. Traditionally, toilets use three to five gallons per flush. If an eighteen liter per flush toilet is removed and a six liter per flush toilet is put in its place, 70% of the water flushed will be saved while the overall indoor water usage by will be reduced by 30%.<ref>[http://urbanbuildersnyc.com/Green_Building.html Green Building Health and Environmental Considerations in Building and Renovating Today] Urban Builders Group. Urban Builders Group LTD. Web. 10 Nov. 2010.</ref> It is possible to have a toilet that uses no water. A [[composting toilet]]{{w|composting toilet}} treats human waste through [[composting]]{{w|composting}} and dehydration{{w|dehydration}}, producing a valuable soil additive.<ref>[http://compostingtoilet.org/compost_toilets_explained/what_is_a_composting_toilet/index.php What is a Composting Toilet?] Composting Toilet World. Envirolet. 2010. Web. 10 Nov. 2010.</ref> These toilets feature a two-compartment bowl to separate urine from feces. The urine can be collected or sold as fertilizer. The feces can be dried and bagged or composted. These toilets cost scarcely more than regularly installed toilets and do not require a sewer hookup. In addition to providing valuable fertilizer, these toilets are highly sustainable because they save sewage collection and treatment, as well as lessen agricultural costs and improve topsoil{{w|topsoil}}.

Additionally, one can reduce toilet water sustainability by limiting total toilet flushing. For instance, instead of flushing small wastes, such as tissues, one can dispose of these items using alternate measures.

====Showers====

On average, showers are 18% of indoor water use, at 6-8 gallons per minute traditionally in America.<ref name="autogenerated1"/> A simple method to reduce this usage is to switch to low-flow, high-performance showerheads. These showerheads use only 1.0-1.5 gpm or less. An alternative to replacing the showerhead is to install a [http://eartheasy.com/evolve-showerstart-converter-the-ladybug converter]. This device arrests a running shower upon reaching the desired temperature. Solar water heaters can be used to obtain optimal water temperature, and are more sustainable because they reduce dependence on fossil fuels. To lessen excess water usage, water pipes can be insulated with pre-slit foam pipe insulation. This insulation decreases hot water generation time. A simple, straightforward method to conserve water when showering is to take shorter showers. One method to accomplish this is to turn off the water when it is not necessary (such as while lathering) and resuming the shower when water is necessary.

====Dishwasher/Sinks====

On average, sinks are 15% of indoor water use.<ref name="autogenerated1"/> There are, however, easy methods to rectify excessive water loss. Available for purchase is a screw-on aerator. This device works by combining water with air thus generating a frothy substance that has more moisture and reduces water usage by half. Additionally, there is a flip-valve available that allows flow to be turned off and back on at the previously reached temperature. Finally, a [http://web.archive.org/web/20140422131655/http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Plumbing/laminar-flow-fixtures laminar flow device] creates a 1.5-2.4 gpm stream of water that reduces water usage by half, but can be turned to normal water level when optimal. 
In addition to buying the above devices, one can live more sustainably by checking sinks for leaks, and fixing these links if they exist. According to the EPA, "A small drip from a worn faucet washer can waste 20 gallons of water per day, while larger leaks can waste hundreds of gallons":<ref name="autogenerated1"/> When using a sink, being more aware of water usage is a very simple way to use water more sustainably. For instance, when washing dishes by hand, it is not necessary to leave the water running for rinsing. It is more sustainable to rinse dishes simultaneously.
On average, dishwashing consumes 1% of indoor water use.<ref name="autogenerated1"/> When using a dishwasher{{w|dishwasher}}, water can be conserved by only running the machine when it is completely full. Additionally, it can be set to Lowflow setting, in order to use less water per wash cycle. The enzymatic detergents{{w|detergents}} available clean dishes more efficiently and more successfully with a smaller amount of water at a lower temperature.

====Washing machines====

On average, 23% of indoor water use is due to clothes washing.<ref name="autogenerated1"/> In contrast to other machines, American washing machines{{w|washing machines}} have changed little to become more sustainable. A typical washing machine has a vertical-axis design, in which clothes are agitated in a tubful of water. Horizontal-axis machines, in contrast, put less water into the bottom of the rub and rotate clothes through it. These machines are more efficient in terms of soap usage and clothing stability.

===Outdoor water usage===

There are a number of ways one can incorporate a personal yard{{w|yard}}, roof{{w|roof}}, and [[garden]]{{w|garden}} in more sustainable living. While conserving water is a major element of sustainability, so is sequestering water.

====Conserving Water====

In planning a yard and garden space, it is most sustainable to consider the plants, soil, and available water. Drought resistant shrubs, plants, and grasses require a smaller amount of water in comparison to more traditional species. Additionally, native plants (as opposed to herbaceous perennials) will use a smaller supply of water and have a heightened resistance to plant diseases of the area. Xeriscape{{w|Xeriscape}}, a system that accounts for endemic features such as slope{{w|slope}}, soil type{{w|soil type}}, and native plant{{w|native plant}} range, can reduce landscape water use by 50 – 70%, while providing habitat{{w|habitat}} space for wildlife. By planting slopes one can reduce runoff{{w|Surface runoff}}. Grouping plants by watering needs further reduces water waste. 

After planting, placing a circumference of [[mulch]]{{w|mulch}} surrounding plants functions to lessen evaporation{{w|evaporation}}. To do this, firmly press two to four inches of organic matter along the plant's dripline. This prevents water runoff{{w|water runoff}}. When watering, consider the range of sprinklers; watering paved areas is unnecessary. Additionally, to conserve the maximum amount of water, watering should be carried out during early mornings on non-windy days in order to reduce water loss to evaporation. Drip-irrigation systems and soaker hoses are a more sustainable alternative to the traditional sprinkler system. Drip-irrigation systems employ small gaps at standard distances in a hose, leading to the slow trickle of water droplets which percolate the soil over a protracted period. These systems use 30 – 50% less water than conventional methods.<ref>Pinkham, R. and Dyer, J., 1993: "Linking Water and Energy Savings in Irrigation," Rocky Mountain Institute Publication #A94-4.</ref> Soaker hoses help to reduce water use by up to 90%.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20130418044700/http://www.savingwater.org:80/docs/successwithsoakerhoses.pdf Soaker Hoses: Good for your Garden, Your Wallet, and Our Environment] Saving Water Partnership. Seattle and Participating Area Water Utilities. 2005. Web. 10 Nov. 2010.</ref> They connect to a garden hose and lay along the row of plants under a layer of mulch. A layer of organic material{{w|organic material}} added to the soil helps to increase its absorption and water retention; previously planted areas can be covered with [[compost]]{{w|compost}}. 

In caring for a lawn, there are a number of measures that can increase the sustainability of lawn maintenance techniques. A primary aspect of lawn care is watering. In order to conserve water, it is important to only water when necessary, and to deep soak when watering. Additionally, a lawn may be left to go dormant, renewing after a dry spell to its original vitality.

====Sequestering Water====

A common method of water sequestrations is [[rainwater harvesting]]{{w|rainwater harvesting}}, which incorporates the collection and storage of rain. Primarily, the rain is obtained from a roof, and stored on the ground in catchment tanks. Water sequestration varies based on extent, cost, and complexity. A simple method involves a single barrel at the bottom of a downspout, while a more complex method involves multiple tanks. It is highly sustainable to use stored water in place of purified water for activities such as irrigation and flushing toilets. Additionally, using stored rainwater reduces the amount of runoff [[pollution]]{{w|pollution}}, picked up from roofs and pavements that would normally enter streams through storm drains. The following equation can be used to estimate annual water supply: 

Collection area (square feet) x Rainfall (inch/year) / 12 (inch/foot) = Cubic Feet of Water/Year

Cubic Feet/Year x 7.43 (Gallons/Cubic Foot) = Gallons/year

Note, however, this calculation does not account for losses such as evaporation or leakage.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20151119120933/http://www.portlandonline.com/shared/cfm/image.cfm?id=182095 How to Manage Stormwater: Rain Barrels]. Stormwater Management for Clean Rivers. Environmental Services. Web. 10 Nov. 2010</ref>

Greywater systems function in sequestering used indoor water, such as laundry, bath and sink water, and filtering it for reuse. [[Greywater]]{{w|Greywater}} can be reused in [[irrigation]]{{w|irrigation}} and toilet flushing. There are two types of greywater systems: gravity fed manual systems and package systems.<ref name="greenbuildingsupply1">[http://www.greenbuildingsupply.com/Public/Energy-WaterConservation/GreywaterSystems/index.cfm Greywater Systems: Reusing Bath, Laundry, and Sink Water to Conserve Fresh Water]. Green Building Supply. 2010. Web. 10 Nov. 2010.</ref> The manual systems do not require electricity but may require a larger yard space.<ref name="greenbuildingsupply1"/> The package systems require electricity but are self-contained and can be installed indoors.<ref name="greenbuildingsupply1"/>
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===Water projects and organizations===
The following Appropedia [[:Category:Projects|projects]] and [[:Category:Organizations|organizations]] are related to green living with water.

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== See also ==

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* [[Abundance]]{{w|Abundance}}
* [[Conservation]]{{w|Conservation}}
* Downshifting{{w|Downshifting}}
* Eco-communalism{{w|Eco-communalism}}
* Ecological economics{{w|Ecological economics}}
* [[Ecotourism]]{{w|Ecotourism}}
* [[Ecovillages]]{{w|Ecovillage}}
* [[How to make awesome thermal curtains]]
* [[Green communities]]
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* [[Green computing]]{{w|Green computing}}
* [[No such thing as garbage]]
* [[Sustainability]]{{w|Sustainability}}
* Sustainable architecture{{w|Sustainable architecture}}
* [[Sustainable design]]{{w|Sustainable design}}
* [[Sustainable development]]{{w|Sustainable development}}
* Sustainable event management{{w|Sustainable event management}}
* [[Sustainable housing directory]]
** [[List of sustainable houses]]
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* Sustainable landscaping{{w|Sustainable landscaping}}
* Sustainable House Day{{w|Sustainable House Day}} (in Australia)
* The Venus Project{{w|The Venus Project}}
* [[Thrivability]]{{w|Thrivability}}
* [[Transition Towns]]{{w|Transition Towns}}
* [[Updated cooking methods in modern kitchens]]{{w|Updated cooking methods in modern kitchens}}
* [[Washing and drying clothes]]
* [[Water conservation]]{{w|Water conservation}}
* [[Principles of personal green living]] (stub - help expand it!)
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== References ==
<references />

==External links==

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* [[Wikipedia:Alternative fuel vehicle]]
* [[Wikipedia:Downshifting]]
* [[Wikipedia:Eco-communalism]]
* [[Wikipedia:Ecological economics]]
* [[Wikipedia:Sustainability]]
* [[Wikipedia:Sustainable architecture]]
* [[Wikipedia:Sustainable design]]
* [[Wikipedia:Sustainable development]]
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* [[Wikipedia:Sustainable event management]]
* [[Wikipedia:Sustainable landscaping]]
* [[Wikipedia:Sustainable living]]
* [[Wikipedia:Sustainable House Day]] (in Australia)
* [[Wikipedia:The Venus Project]]
* [[Wikipedia:Transition Towns]]
* [https://www.ekopedia.fr Ekopedia] - Sister site to Appropedia, in French
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* [[Greenlivingpedia:|Greenlivingpedia]] - another sister site, a wiki focused on green living and [[green building]].
* [[Wikipedia:Portal:Sustainable development]]
* [[Wikipedia:Portal:Environment]]
* [[Wikipedia:Portal:Earth sciences]]
* [[Wikipedia:Portal:Ecology]]
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* [http://www.ecoliteracy.org/ Center for Ecoliteracy]
** [http://web.archive.org/web/20150801023733/http://www.ecoliteracy.org:80/blog/summer-education-sustainable-living A Summer of Education for Sustainable Living]
* [http://www.cellonline.org/ Center for Ecological Living and Learning (CELL)]
* [http://www.simplycsl.org/ Center For Sustainable Living]
* [http://www.conservation.org/ Conservation International]
** [http://www.conservation.org/act/simplesteps/Pages/simplesteps.aspx?gclid=CNibsNXZj6kCFcJ05QodaxZGpw Take Steps to Live Green]
* [http://eartheasy.com/ Eartheasy]
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* [http://www.nrdc.org/living/ Natural Resources Defense Council: Smarter Living]
* [http://www.no-impact.com No Impact]
* [http://www.slowfoodusa.org/ Slow Food USA]
* [http://sustliving.blogspot.com/ Sustainable Living Blog]
* [http://www.sustainablelivingmagazine.org/ Sustainable Living Magazine]
* [http://urbansustainableliving.com/ Urban Sustainable Living Magazine]
* [http://web.archive.org/web/20130611224523/http://www.worldgreen.org/living.html World Green: Living Green] 
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