SUSTAINABLE, AFFORDABLE AND ATTAINABLE
Costa Rica inspires many vacationing visitors to reflect on sustainable living ideas they can take home with them. Seeing pristine human landscapes in this country alongside magnificent forests — so vulnerable, yet well protected — makes them ponder what anyone can do, anywhere in the world, to enjoy a better quality of life without hurting the environment. They wonder, how can I do more? Is sustainability attainable no matter where I live … and is it affordable?
The answer is probably “yes,” and the possibilities more widely conceivable than most realize. Sustainable living is largely a matter of proper design. One of the most common misperceptions is that it’s not only too difficult but too expensive for most home building or home renovation budgets. This does not have to be the case when we look at the essence of sustainable living by design from three perspectives.
1. Energy efficiency
Reducing energy consumption wherever and however possible is the goal. There are more options than ever for installing photovoltaic solar energy panels or creating eolic (wind) energy on the roof of your new or existing home. But if that’s not feasible, never overlook the relatively basic considerations for saving energy, at little or no additional cost.
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2. Water efficiency
Water efficiency, both inside and outside your home is imperative. That means reducing as much as possible your consumption of POTABLE water for tasks that do not require it.
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3. Building materials efficiency
This aspect of home design has become the most important application of sustainable philosophy. It means being informed and conscientious in selecting construction materials that are sourced as close to home and with as little environmental impact as possible. Factor in the logistics of location for production, processing and transportation, as well as the life cycle, energy consumption and overall carbon footprint.
The questions to ask when choosing materials are: how, when and where? If they are locally harvested and created with care, so much the better as an asset for your home. If on the other hand, you are fixated on a material sourced from India, for example, evaluate the carbon footprint on land and on sea as a motive for seeking a local and equally beautiful alternative.
In essence, sustainable living goals can be attainable in more ways than you might have thought possible, and perhaps with a lower price tag too. It’s all about making choices in designing your new home or modifying your existing space, and these decisions don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the cost savings and resource conservation benefits come enhanced quality of life and peace of mind.
As always, you are well advised to consult with knowledgeable professionals who will help implement your vision.
Create your own low-cost, slow-drip irrigation system from repurposed beverage bottles.