Solar panels can help a community become more sustainable.
Sustainable communities are homes, businesses and even entire cities designed or modified to emphasize green living and the use of environmentally safe and renewable technology. In the wake of climate change and the loss of natural resources due to human use, sustainable communities aim to reduce pollution and promote a green existence. While not all communities can afford a complete conversion to sustainable living, most can increase sustainable living with a few simple and basic changes and additions.
Low-flow toilets use less water than regular toilets.
The backbone of sustainable communities are renewable resources. Many ecological communities are powered, at least partially, by solar energy or another renewable source. Most sustainable homes use energy-saving appliances like low-flush toilets. Additionally, for a community to be considered sustainable, there is often an element of community activities, such as shared organic gardens or recycling programs. By working together, the community can take pride and share in their contributions to a cleaner, greener world.
Some governments around the world have invested money and effort to promote sustainable communities through tax incentives, funded initiatives and studies. Many experts suggest that sustainability is the key to continued human survival and will help end the cycle of overuse and environmental consequences that has existed since the Industrial Revolution. People interested in building or creating a sustainable community can contact local government officials to see what programs exist to help green-minded citizens.
Modifying an existing community to make it sustainable can be a matter of a few major changes or many small, incremental changes. Big changes include installing solar panels, rationing water, and ensuring that all future buildings meet sustainable requirements. Small changes are much easier to manage and can even be fun to implement. Building a community garden, recycling facilities, and even cleaning up trash in the local area can help a community become more sustainable.
Many people find that when trying to convince others of the importance of sustainability, it can be helpful to focus on the personal benefits that this lifestyle can bring. By implementing energy saving techniques like wrapping water heaters in insulating blankets and using energy efficient light bulbs, residents can see significant reductions in utility bills. Planting a community garden takes effort and time, but offers opportunities for exercise and community building, as well as fresh produce year-round.
Possibly the most important benefit of sustainable communities is their potential to affect others. Growing up in a sustainable society can impress the values of renewable practices and responsible actions on children and young people. Taking advantage of green trends, people have the opportunity to teach the benefits of sustainable living.