As our national holiday approaches, so do the hottest days of summer. Let’s talk about low-energy ways to keep cool without turning up the air conditioner. [Read more…]
Earth Day 2015: Meaningful agency in a runaway world
Earth Day is here again, and I’ve got a few words for the faint of heart. We can all agree that there’s much to love about this planet, and we know how threatened it is by forces seemingly beyond our control. People can almost be divided into two camps: those who believe that we can ameliorate the dangers, and those who feel helpless. Without offering some grandiose vision full of unrealistic hopes, I’d like to say a few personal words to the latter group about “meaningful agency”. [Read more…]
Designing a Resilient Home: more thoughts
There’s no doubt that climate change and tapped-out fossil fuel supplies are presenting challenges that our forebears never imagined. In such times, we need to build for resilience. During extreme weather (or seismic) events, will your house keep you warm, dry and safe? [Read more…]
Design for the 95%
I often talk about “building small” as a good strategy for sustainable living. But what does “small” mean? These days, the average new Canadian home, built for 2-3 people, measures 2,000 square feet. I define a small house as one that minimizes space per person while allowing a comfortable lifestyle for its occupants. About 1,200 square feet or less for a couple, or under 1,500 square feet for a family with kids, would fit this criterion. [Read more…]
The ‘Dinosaur Home’: heading for extinction
One of our oldest human institutions is the home. For as long as our species has existed, we’ve occupied spaces and made them our own. As we’ve evolved, so have the form and concept of “home,” giving rise to the detached, single-family dwelling that eventually became normative for many people. [Read more…]
When is a lake not a lake? The true cost of energy
When is a lake not a lake? When it’s been degraded into a reservoir for hydroelectric generation.
Last weekend my family and I went camping on the shores of Buttle Lake, a beautiful spot nestled in the middle of Strathcona Provincial Park. There, amid the towering peaks and old-growth forests we had a great respite from our everyday tasks and concerns. However, immediately after we left the campground for the beach, it became apparent that all was not perfect in this mountain paradise. [Read more…]