This morning I was enjoying my daily commute to work – a seven-minute stroll through a quiet wooded area – when I noticed something that set off alarm bells. Today, in mid-May, the stream running through this little forest was at levels usually seen in early July. Right now, the snow pack in this region is only 15% of what’s considered normal. Having witnessed one of the immediate effects, I felt prompted to say a few words about the need to be water-wise. [Read more…]
WRITER-IN-RESIDENCE: Reflections on House and Home
The Winds of Change?
This month’s election in Alberta sent shockwaves through the country when the NDP took the win in a longtime conservative stronghold. That province’s recession is held up as a primary reason for the upset. While incredulous that a once-rich province could have come to such a pass, many are hopeful that the new premier will lead the way back into prosperity. [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…]
Rites of Spring: the wildlife-friendly garden
The vernal equinox has just passed, and now it’s time to think about the garden in earnest. As we draw plans, dig the soil and pat seedlings into place, how many of us stop to think about the implications of how we garden, how we interact with nature? [Read more…]
The good, the bad, and the hopelessly trendy
It’s time to talk about designing for longevity. This is an important component of sustainable design. For a home that will age gracefully, choose a classic style and use the best quality materials that fit your budget. Now, let’s look at each of these two points more closely. [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…]
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