In today’s technology-driven world, people are more connected than ever. Whether by smart phones, Wi-Fi connections or other technology, people interact with each other digitally at a constant rate and there’s no denying that technology has made many aspects from everyday life a lot easier.
But for all the technological advances, have you ever considered getting off the grid? As it turns out, many people have, choosing to live in a self-sustaining community.
Self-sustaining communities are communities which are planned, built and then modified to allow for sustainable living. These communities focus on economic and environmental sustainability as well as social equality among other things.
There are many benefits to living in a self-sustaining community and they include:
- Home Ownership: Living in a self-sustaining community allows families to realize their dream of home ownership. In 2015, at 30 percent, the primary reason for purchasing a home was the desire to own a home of their own. In fact, two in five Americans either somewhat or strongly prefer a newly-built home over an existing one.
With a self-sustaining community, residents can own their own home and have access to neighborhood resources. Owning a home also comes with the usual benefits, including having your own yard. A new survey by Harris Poll for the National Association of Landscape Professionals, finds that three quarters of Americans feel it’s important to spend time in their yards. Additionally, a high number of people think it is important to keep a yard well-maintained. - Social Engagement: Rather than traveling in busy traffic to the grocery store or trekking more than an hour to an out-of-town store, residents living in a self-sustaining community have grocery stores, town squares and schools all within walking distance from home.
In a recent survey, 63 percent of respondents reported being willing to pay more for an apartment or house if it was located in an area with good green spaces. Thirty four percent were willing to pay more for an area with good shopping and 33 percent were willing to pay for a place with good cultural values. Living in a self-sustaining community presents the chance to enjoy all three. - Healthy Living: Rather than driving everywhere, residents can walk short distances to most places in a self-sustaining community. Walking promotes good health and community centers can have everything from exercise equipment to pools to sports equipment.
- Helping the Environment: Self-sustaining communities are built to promote sustainable living, but they’re also meant to promote clean living. That means a smaller carbon footprint overall with fewer cats, eco-friendly home assets and water filtration systems.
Eco villages have been established around the world and have done some amazing things to reduce their carbon footprint, reduce energy use and help the environment.
Looking at new homes and eventually buying your own new home can be an amazing feeling. But if you’re looking to own your own home and help the environment too, consider these tips for sustainable living.
If you want to start your own self-sustaining community, there’s a way to do that as well.
