Sustainable Living

A measurement of the amount of biologically productive land and water area required to produce the resources an individual, population, or activity consumes and to absorb the waste it generates. It is typically expressed in global hectares.

A philosophy and design principle that aims to eliminate waste sent to landfills, incinerators, or the ocean by redesigning resource life cycles so that all products are reused, repaired, composted, or recycled. The goal is to mimic natural systems where one organism's waste becomes another's resource.

The total amount of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide and methane, emitted directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product, usually expressed in metric tons of CO2 equivalent per year.

A design system for creating sustainable human habitats by following nature's patterns. It integrates agriculture, water management, energy systems, shelter, and community design into productive ecosystems that are diverse, stable, and resilient.

A dietary pattern centered on foods derived primarily from plants, including vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, with little or no consumption of animal products. Plant-based diets have significantly lower environmental footprints than diets rich in meat and dairy.

The generation or purchase of energy from renewable sources such as solar, wind, or geothermal for residential use. Rooftop solar panels, community solar programs, and green energy utility plans are common pathways for households.

The biological process of decomposing organic waste, such as food scraps, yard trimmings, and paper, into nutrient-rich humus that enriches soil. Composting diverts waste from landfills where it would produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

A lifestyle philosophy that advocates intentionally living with fewer material possessions, focusing on experiences and relationships rather than consumption. In the context of sustainability, minimalism reduces resource extraction, manufacturing emissions, and waste generation.

The collection and treatment of wastewater from household sinks, showers, bathtubs, and washing machines for reuse in landscape irrigation or toilet flushing. Greywater systems can reduce household potable water consumption by 30-50%.

Modes of travel that minimize greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact, including walking, cycling, public transit, carpooling, and electric vehicles. Transportation is typically the largest component of an individual's carbon footprint in developed countries.