EcoDesign Solutions: "Sustainable Living Center"

If we can agree that it's both economically and environmentally efficient to direct the progress of our society towards a more sustainable future, then what is the next course of action? Lead authorities concur that there lies great investment potential within the sustainable development arena; More specifically, the construction of the most optimal commercial/residential properties utilizing
alternative technology, materials, and designs. Variable upon the topography of an area, these green designs would allow the manipulation of surrounding natural resources to meet its maximum potential for carbon neutral living and with little, to no, lifestyle inconvenience. However, one finds many social, economic, and political obstacles that essentially prevent the embracement of such ecologically sound investments. Therefore, it will be the primary focus of our team to conduct a hands-on global investigation of the universal obstacles surrounding the actual implementation of, what we refer to as, ``Sustainable Living Centers.``

Project mission:

Our mission is to promote environmentally friendly commercial/home building methods and practices, while enhancing our communities through leadership in sustainable development.

PROJECT MISSION:

1) Conduct an comprehensive report that provides a hands-on global investigation of the universal obstacles for the development of a ´´Sustainable Living Center.´´
2) Devise an investment prospectus readily available for both commercial/residential properties and build a modeled version.
3) Take community action with project location case studies. (I.E. Buenos Aires, Argentina: Start "Environmental Business" course curriculum at major colleges to help promote sustainable awareness. New Delhi, India: Submit "Sustainable Living Center" prospectus to government as potential solution to infrastructure energy crisis. Berkeley, California: Establish a UC Berkeley chapter in the national Solar Decathlon competition and represent findings at convention in Washington, DC. ETC).
4) Start a non-profit organization educating/developing the potential for these ``Sustainable Living Centers`` on a local, national, and international level.

Potential impact:

The purpose of this research project is to provide one realistic solution that serves as a great preventative measure for our current ecological crisis. Through society´s embracement of ideal green building advancements, we hope to prove that economic growth and environmental conservation can incorporate a synergistic future. Our research examines the true integrative potential of several sustainable technologies, materials, and designs that serve by helping to relieve social dependence on non-renewable resources. Essentially, we hope to help create a more efficient infrastructure design that will benefit many generations to come.

Our course of action will require a careful analysis of the "Sustainable Living Center" potential in most major cities around the world. We’ll interview top authorities from various fields, conduct scientific case studies, and essentially create a comprehensive prospectus. From this information, we'll also provide the most ideal "Sustainable Living Center" models for both commercial/residential properties and help consult those interested enthusiast. Essentially, we hope to help prove that efficient green construction can incorporate great potential for economic growth, while serving as a huge preventative measure against our current ecological crisis.

Required resources:

1. Total project needs: $70,391
2. Other:

   - Travel, food, design, material and lodging expenses for EcoDesign Solutions Team
   (Breakdown available upon request)

Project page URL:

• www.EcoDesignSolutions.net

Additional info:

The world is a teeming mishmash of cultures with a bewildering array
of values and ideologies engaged in their own version of the good
life. However, the one universal and essential commodity that we all
share is the environment. Unfortunately, the planet which we inhabit
has become depleted due to our own neglect and apathy. As Robert F.
Kennedy Jr. points out in his novel, "Crimes Against Nature", "The
world needs to become aware of the long-term consequences of
neglecting the environment and start to take the initiative, if not
for us, then for our children." Society appears to view environment
and economic growth as contradictory concepts. It is our dream to
bridge this fallacious gap by discovering and communicating the
benefits of groundbreaking advancements in sustainable development. We
aim to demonstrate that the two concepts are, in fact, complementary
and inexorably linked. We hope to achieve this goal, with persistence,
devotion, and the repetition of these immortal words from Eleanor
Roosevelt, "The future belongs to those who believe in the power of
their dreams."