An exploration of critical issues of sustainability as applied to human activity and human habitation. Learn the differences between sustainability and self-sufficiency and the challenges of achieving sustainability.

Vital Components    

     In developing Mariposa, Natural Systems Developers will be working toward a new paradigm. The tendency would be to alter our innovative solutions to fit into the traditional community development model. These Vital Components detail the aspects of Mariposa that should not be compromised in order to achieve our goals.

     This short article talks about the definition of an EcoVillage.

     Review the reasons behind developing EcoVillages, the historic basis, the main components and who might benefit from these endeavors. In this summary article are references to other articles for more details.

     Exploration of the core values utilized in designing EcoVillages. Values are delineated for each of these aspects; resource consciousness, community, self-determination, social conscience, synergy, citizen participation, beauty and economic stabilization.

     Goals guiding the policies and operation of an EcoVillage are delineated for each of the aspects in the Values section.

     This detailed article goes beyond the Mission Statement for NSD and details how we will interpret sustainability and approach the site for Mariposa. Utilities and Services are addressed, as are aspects of Community Self-sufficiency.

     View a detailed checklist of characteristics for the three categories of Planning, Architecture and Engineering; Services and Amenities; and Governance and Maintenance.

     Details challenges faced in the design and operation of a truly sustainable community. In order to be successful, NSD must be fully aware of these challenges and promote systems and solutions that will address them.

     Learn how aspiring homeowners will be enabled to easily buy into the EcoVillage. This innovative program should allow your new home to be fully paid for in less than 12 years. Also detailed are the various types of housing that will be provided.

     These principles were generated by private developers and architects interested in community sustainability in 1991 and are based on the presumption that the existing patterns of development were seriously impacting our lives. The principles include the areas of Community, Regional and Implementation.

     Learn how we can generate ecological wealth in the areas of nutrients, hydrolic (water) cycles, atmospheric purification, renewable energy, building materials, production and use of materials, toxic compounds, transportation, town and regional planning, consumption, and biospherics.