SUSTAINABLE LIVING

The idea that we'd all be better off if we took the initiative to start producing some of our own food and collecting our own water is certainly nothing new, but we have, for the most part, lost sight of it in the face of the demand for mass-produced and prepackaged goods. It is very easy to go to a supermarket in most places and buy everything you need, but it is possible, fairly easy when you know how, and indeed very satisfying to grow a good proportion of your own food, not to mention cheaper, tastier and usually healthier.

I myself am not self-reliant, but I am taking steps towards reducing my need for buying fruit, vegetables and bread, and I hope soon to be in a position to begin building an 'off-the-grid' house made from recycled materials, designed with food production in mind in addition to independence from mains water and electricity supplies.

This should not be as difficult a change in lifestyle as it may at first appear. Indeed it is likely a necessary change for us to make during the following years and future generations, as populations continue to grow and over-exploit the limited resources we have at our disposal.

                                

So far, I've only got as far as growing some of my own herbs and vegetables, and making furniture out of old cardboard boxes, however I do have some grand ideas based on the concept of 'Earthships' and other low impact housing. I am currently gathering as much information together as I can on recycled housing materials, building techniques, off-the-grid living and alternative energy sources, whilst having half an eye open for where I might want to put such a home. I'll add to this page progressively as I find more interesting information and start to form a plan.

If anyone out there has any ideas to share, on Earthships, land use, growing your own food in dry climates like Lanzarote, how to cultivate quality soil without using artificial fertilisers, or if you live in or are building a more sustainable home, then please contact me or start a discussion here.