Sustainability guide final

Sustainability Guide
Using The Natural Step Framework as a guide to a more
sustainable lifestyle for young adults and families in Minnesota

The Natural Step Framework is based on systems thinking and looks at how all parts of a system effect each other. By doing this, we can
better understand how our actions impact society and the environment and take preventative measures to reduce any harm we may cause.
It consists of four system conditions that we can use as tools to look at a system through the lens of sustainability and start making changes
that are good for the system as a whole.

This sustainability guide will walk you through these four systems conditions and offer suggestions in each area to build a more sustainable
lifestyle for you and your family. Some will be simple changes that cost nothing to implement that you could start today, while others will be
long term changes that may happen over time or require a large investment. At the end of the guide, you will also find a few tools that will
help you evaluate your current household and imagine what the future will look like as some of these changes are implemented at a large
scale. It will be up to you to decide which actions to take, but even making just one change is a step in the right direction to helping build a
more sustainable world.

Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Sustainability Guide: Intro - Fall 2011

Table of Contents

System Condition 1: Eliminate Pollution from Mined Materials.............................................. 1-4
System Condition 2: Eliminate Pollution from Human-Made Chemicals.................................... 5-7
System Condition 3: Preserve Nature from Degradation by Physical Means................................ 8-11
System Condition 4: Meeting Fundamental Human Needs.................................................... 12-15

Appendix A: Materials Inventory
Appendix B: Backcasting
Appendix C Scenario Building

Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - TOC - Fall 2011

The Natural Step Framework, System Condition 1 - Eliminate Pollution from Mined Materials

Building sustainable households by reducing their impact on use of raw materials
System Condition 1 of the Natural Step Framework focuses on eliminating pollution from mined materials.
This includes the mining of fossil fuels like oil and coal, hard metals, and minerals. Nature has adapted
to be in balance with these materials that have built up in the earth’s crust over billions. Burning and
mining these materials releases a range of persistent substances into the ecosphere where they build up
and spread. Living systems are not equipped to handle these large changes over a relatively short amount
of time and we risk destroying the functionality of the natural environment by continually releasing these
substances.

To help meet this condition, we must work towards keeping the flow of these materials in balance with
what the environment can handle. We can begin to make changes in the quality, quantity, and choice of
mined materials that we use to bring the system back into balance.

Currently, our exploitation of our natural resources has lead to acid rain, smog, ozone depletion and
global climate change, but there are ways to turn this around! There are many great alternatives to the
consumption of mined materials for energy as well as in the products we consume to meet this goal and get
on the path to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Sustainability Guide: SC1 - Fall 2011


Alternative Energy
Buildings are one of the largest sources of energy use in the United States and by using alternative forms of
energy, we can reduce our dependence on mined materials like oil, natural gas, and coal. Wind and solar
energy are great alternative sources of energy for heat, light, and to power our many appliances and
electronics. While most of us don’t live on a plot of land where wind farms are a viable option, there are many types of solar panels that are
available and becoming more affordable. They may be a large investment up front, but will be a huge cost savings in the long run and many
power companies will now pay you for any energy you generate, but don’t use. By designing our homes to maximize daylight, we can also
reduce our energy use.

Energy Efficiency
Another great way to reduce you energy use is though more energy
efficient heating and cooling systems. As shown in the graph to the left,
the majority of our energy use in our home is devoted to these systems.
While the initial cost might be high to replace an old, inefficient system,
you’ll quickly find the huge cost savings in reduced energy use is well worth
the change. More efficient water heating systems can also have a huge
impact.

Appliances are the next big energy user, but gradually replacing old
appliances with energy efficient Energy Star appliance, much less energy
Average energy use in a home will be use. You can also have an energy audit done on your home for more
specific information about how to make your home more energy efficient
and visit www.mnpower.com for more information.

Sources: www.myenergysolution.com Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Sustainability Guide: SC1 - Fall 2011


Transportation
Energy use for transportation is one of the biggest culprits for consumption of mined materials, primarily oil. Cars currently
consume half of the world’s oil and create nearly one fifth of its greenhouse gases. While it is most effective to move to a
location where you are close to work, school and/or grocery stores and shopping, sometimes it is not possible to move to
accommodate these goals or find a job within a few miles of your home.

If you do live close to work and other places you travel to frequently, bike or walk as much as possible. Both biking and
walking have a relatively low impact and they will not just be good for the environment, but keep you healthy too! Use public
transportation is also a great way to reduce your impact. Rail systems are a great way to travel into city centers if they
are available as they greatly reduce pollution and relieve traffic congestion. Buses can also be a good alternative to getting
around the city.

If public transportation is not available, you can also reduce your impact by carpooling with coworkers and friends. Whether
making short trips around town, to work, or long trips visiting friends and family, one vehicle on the road instead of two will
always be the more sustainable option!

When there aren’t any other options available and you need to drive, by investing and a fuel efficient car, each trip will use
less oil and gas to get you where you need to go. This is a long term investment, but will save you money in fuel to help offset
the cost. Many hybrids are now available and even a few electric cars which are a great alternative to a large gas guzzling
vehicle. To use even less fuel, you can consolidate your trips when running errands also saving you money and time!



Reduce and Recycle
By reducing your overall use of mined materials and reusing what we already have, we can also reduce our overall impact! Here are just a
few more easy tips to get you started right away!

1. Buy local - Local items travel much shorter distances to get to your home and as a result use a lot less fuel
2. Recycle Properly - This seems like an obvious one, but many products have like batteries and electronics are made with heavy metals
and require special recycling. Many retail stores that sell these types of items have drop off bins that make it easy to keep these out of the
landfill. Best Buy is an especially great resource for recycling many electronics and their website is a great tool for learning where you can
properly dispose of these items.
3. Unplug Kitchen Appliances - Even when these items are not in use they are still consuming energy. Your microwave, coffee maker and
other gadgets can be unplugged when not in use to cut back on energy usage.
4. Unplug Electronics - Your TV, cell phone charger, and computer all consume energy even when not charging or when in the “off” position.
An easy way to control many items at once is to have them all plugged into one power strip that you can switch off when you leave for the
day or at the end of the night before bed. Approximate 10% of energy consumption in the home is from electronics that are on standby and
consuming energy when not in use.
5. Turn Down the Heat - It is estimated you can 10-20% of your heating costs by turning the thermostat 10-15 degrees for 8 hours a day. Or
even just turning down the temperature one degree 60-70 degree temp range save you 5% of your total heating costs.
6. Turn Off the Lights - Turning off the lights when you’re not in a room is a simple but effective tip!
7. Use Re-Useable Bag - Skip both paper and plastic and consume less by using cloth bags when shopping. You’ll
consume less and not have to worry about the bag breaking on the way to the home!
8. Skip the Disposable Plastics - Instead of using one-time use products like zip lock bags and cling wrap for left overs,
put your food items in tupperware or glassware for easy reheating.
9. Pass on Paper - Napkins and paper towel all consume a lot of energy and resources for their very short life. Use a
wash cloth or cloth napkin to clean up small messes and toss them in the laundry each week to keep them clean.


The Natural Step Framework, System Condition 2 - Eliminate Pollution from Human-made Chemicals

Building sustainable households by reducing their use and exposure to harmful chemicals
System Condition 2 of the Natural Step Framework focuses on eliminating pollution from man-made chemicals in our environment. Many of
the products we use contain synthetic compounds that accumulate in our bodies and in the earth. In the environment, they are not able
to be broken down and spread through all systems by attaching to soil and water particles that travel through the air. These chemicals can
pollute our land and food sources and are magnified as they make their way up the food chain.

One of the major problems with these chemicals is that it is hard to predict the full effect they are having
on our natural systems. We already know that they gather in the fat stores of animals and accumulate in
our bodies impairing our reproductive abilities, diminishing intelligence, altering behavior, and manifest
birth defects and cancer. Many of them are also known to be hormone disrupters and can be extremely
dangerous for unborn fetuses and young children. These chemicals can cause improper hormone
development, autism, attention deficit disorders, learning disabilities.

Knowing these are some of the effects we are already aware of and that there are many long term effects
we are still discovering, it is important for us to reduce our use of these unsustainable chemicals until we
can eventually phase the out completely. Most of what we can do to reduce our impact is learning which
products contain these chemicals, and discontinuing our use of them.



Increase Your Awareness - Which chemicals are harmful and where do they exist?

Phthalates
This is a chemical that is found in personal care products listed as fragrance or parfum and is used in many plastics as a softening agent.
Phthalates in the body can act as an endocrine disrupter and possibly lead to malformation of reproductive organs. The best way to avoid
exposure to this chemical is to read product labels and research which products contain the chemical before making a purchase. A lot of the
personal care products might even say “fragrance free” or “natural” but can have phthalates, so it is critical to read the labels and many
products will now specifically say “no phthalates”. Air fresheners often contain phathalates so it’s better to avoid them completely and opt
for fresh air. Toys are notorious, so visit out healthytoys.com to check out toys you might already have or are looking to buy to see if they
contain this chemical.

Teflon and Non-stick
Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) are used in Teflon and other non-stick products. They persist for a long time in our bodies and in the environment
and are classified as a likely carcinogen. They are used on many non-stick cookware and also are in fabrics as Gore-tex, Stainmater, and
Scotchguard. The first step you can do is to get rid of your non-stick frying pan for better alternatives such as cast iron and stainless steel.
Many food wrappers also contain PFC making it important to read labels before making a purchase. Even microwave pop-corn bags are often
coated with PFCs and ingested. Encourage legislators to phase our PFCs from our food wrappers and other consumer products.

Flame Retardants
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) is the chemical used as a flame retardant in furniture, clothing and electronics. While some
furniture is now being manufactured without this chemical, it can further be avoided by purchasing products that contain PBDEs. Naturally
fibred products like wool, hemp, and cotton are chemical free and naturally fire resistant. PBDEs are often found in dust particles, so dusting
and vacuuming regularly can reduce the accumulation of the chemical in your home. When possible, buy electronics that are PBDE free and
reuse or properly recycle used electronics.

Sources: www.slowdeathbyrubberduck.com Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Sustainability Guide: SC2 - Fall 2011


Increase Your Awareness - Which chemicals are harmful and where do they exist?
Triclosan
Antibacterial and antimicrobial products have become popular as people have become obsessed with killing germs. Triclosan is the chemical
used in personal care products, cleaning products, and even socks and underwear as an antibacterial agent. The problems this chemical
causes is that is can create resistant strands of bacteria to develop, it is a possible carcinogen, it is an endocrine disrupter, it can lead to the
development of allergies in children, and it is toxic to aquatic bacteria which inhibits photosynthesis on Earth. Some small steps you can
take are to avoid products labeled “antibacterial”, wash your hands the old fashioned way with soap and water, use natural cleaners such as
baking soda and borax, and check out www.safecosmetics.org for personal care products that don’t contain harmful chemicals.

Mercury
Mercury is another chemical that has polluted our food source, especially in sea food. While there are many online resources to learn which
fish contain the highest levels of mercury, a simple rule to follow is eat fewer big fish and more smaller fish. Ingesting mercury can lead to
nervous system damage and is especially dangerous for pregnant women as it can lead to severe disabilities in infants. Properly disposing and
recycling products that contain mercury such as batteries, thermostats and fluorescent bulbs is also import to keep it out of the environment.

BPA
Many of the products we buy are contained in plastic. Bisphenol A, known as BPA, is one of the harmful chemicals in many different kinds of
plastics. In general, most plastic products will be numbered and numbers 4, 5, 1, and 2 are deemed as relatively safe, while the others can
have chemicals that are associated with carcinogens, hormone disrupters, can be a brain and nervous system toxicant and have other adverse
heath effects. Most recently there have been concerns about BPA being used in the lining of tin cans and in baby bottles. To reduce your
expose to this chemical, you can opt for glass containers or choose fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables instead of those in a can, especially
for highly acidic items such as tomatoes. Also, avoid putting plastic containers in the microwave. Reducing your use of plastic in general can
help prevent this chemical from leeching into the environment, so pass on using plastic bags at the grocery to and use canvas instead, and
don’t purchase water in disposable plastic bottles as more than half of these are never recycled and end up in landfills.

Sources: www.epa.gov Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Sustainability Guide: SC2 - Fall 2011

The Natural Step Framework, System Condition 3 - Preserve Nature From Degradation by Physical Means

Building sustainable households by preventing the physical degradation of our environment
System Condition 3 of the Natural Step Framework focuses on eliminating our contribution to the progressive physical degradation and
destruction of nature and natural processes. The value of nature is easy to evaluate by the products we can create from it, but we must also
look at the inherent services it provides and the benefits to be gained by its preservation.

Here are just a few of the services provided by nature that are easy to take for granted:
1. Plants counteract climate change
2. Wetland purify water
3. Forests absorb water and prevent flooding and erosion
4. Worms and insects turn waste into rich soil
5. Many medicines are derived from plant based materials
6. Micro-organisms in the ocean produce oxygen we breathe

Is it easy to see what the immediate impacts would be if any of these individual systems were disrupted,
but even more important to also look at the linkages of the individual parts and the effect of the larger
system as a whole when sustainability is compromised. To prevent the degradation of these natural
systems, in this section of the sustainability guide, we will look at how we can limit our impact by
reducing water usage, taking a deeper look at our food selections, and products we consume.



H 2 Oh so easy to Conserve!
Water is one of our most precious and valuable resources. You might be thinking, “How could we possibly run out of water when 71% of
Earth’s surface is covered by water?” While that statement is true, it is also true that only 1% of that water is available for human use. The
rest of it is salt water that is not drinkable or frozen, which is why we need to protect this important resource that we cannot live without!

According to the EPA, the average American family of four uses roughly 400 gallons of water per day at home, but there are many simple and
even low-cost ways to lower your number! And less water going down the drain means more water available in the lakes, rivers and streams
that we use for recreation and wildlife uses to survive. Using less water will also save you money and reduce energy and resources used in
water treatment.
Ten simple, but effective ways to reduce your water usage:
1. Turn off the water when you brush your teeth
2. Convert to low flow fixtures - Low flow shower heads are available for under $20 or take shorter
showers and save money!
3. Invest in a dual flush toilet, or for a cheaper solution, fill a water jug with sand and water and place
it in your water tank
4. Only run the dish washer when it is a full load
5. Use rain barrels to collect water for using in your garden
6. Use native plants for landscaping and reduce the amount of grass you have which requires a lot of
water to survive
7. Buy a water filter for drinking water and keep a plentiful supply in the refrigerator. It uses less
energy than bottled water, is cheaper, and you’ll always have fresh, cold, drinking water
8. Compost instead of using the garbage disposal
9. Invest in a water and energy efficient washer/dryer and only wash full loads
10. Fix those leaks ASAP!
You can also visit www.h2oconserve.org for more tips and to calculate your water footprint!
Source: www.epa.gov Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Sustainability Guide: SC3 - Fall 2011


Food for Thought
The food we consume has a big impact on how our natural systems are sustained. Development of genetically modified mono-crops and over
harvesting of our fisheries is having a devastating impact on our earth and is putting our food supplies in jeopardy.

Large corporate food production practices are depleting the soil of its rich nutrients, and are often replacing them with chemicals. They are
also clearing forests to create more land for farming resulting in a loss of habitat for many species and increasing the chance for erosion.
Many seeds have also been genetically modified and patented by chemical companies which has deeply limited the traditional growers’
ability to plant natural crops since any crop with traces of genetically modified products not purchased as seed from the chemical companies
is considered patent infringement and are subject to strict legal penalties. They also plant one mono-crop of their products believing they
are increasing efficiencies. These practices are reducing biodiversity and making our crop supply susceptible to huge crop losses from disease
and insects.

Commercial fishing has also had a huge impact on the environment. According to Greenpeace.org, 70% of the world’s marine fish stocks are
fully exploited, over-exploited, depleted or slowly recovering. They also state that “many marine ecologists think that the biggest single
threat to marine ecosystems today is overfishing.” The natural ecosystem cannot keep up with the rate we are fishing the oceans and this
devastating impact can create huge changes in our ocean wildlife system that we may not be able to reverse.

What can you do?
Purchase from small local growers. This helps support biodiversity since many smaller growers plant many different varieties of crops and
rotate their fields to keep key nutrients in the soil. Farmers market’s and co-ops are great places to find locally grown food items.

Purchase fish that is harvested sustainably or limit your total fish intake. You can also visit www.montereybayaquarium.org/cr/seafood-
watch.aspxv for more information about which seafood choices are most sustainable, seafood with the lowest contamination, and pocket
guides for making sustainable decisions when you’re on the go!
Source: www.greenpeace.org Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Sustainability Guide: SC3 - Fall 2011


Consuming vs. Conserving
To preserve our Earth for future generations, it is important to understand the boundaries of nature. Earth is inherently sustainable if we do
not allow ourselves to destroy it and if we work with nature’s systems, humans and the environment can thrive. How can we reduce our de-
pendence on ecologically destructive practices so that we can live in balance with nature’s systems?

Support companies that use sustainable practices
Many companies will post information about their company practices on their website. Look for companies that use FSC certified wood if
they sell paper or wood products. Look also for information about how their facilities are run. Do they run water efficient equipment and
have gray water catchment systems? Where is their waste water going? Into a nearby water source or are they filtering and/or re-using it on
site? Do they use sustainable energy resources?

By purchasing products from a company, we are intentionally or unintentionally supporting their business practices so they should be taken
into consideration just as much as the end product. Your dollars can influence the way a company does business and if you’re not happy with
how they are operating, let them know or send a message the declining to purchase their products

Limit your consumption of goods made from virgin raw materials
Many items are now made from either or both post-consumer or post-industrial recycled materials. By purchasing items with recycled con-
tent, you are eliminating some need to mine new materials from the Earth. Used items are also a great way to reduce raw material con-
sumption. This doesn’t just mean going to the thrift store, but also using what you already have. Do you need new cabinets or would a fresh
coat of eco-friendly paint give you the change you’re looking for? Damaged wood furniture? How about sanding it down and making it look
like new with a new finish? There are also many great alternatives to purchasing books, magazines and newspapers. The library likely has
exactly what you’re looking for and you can rent it for free! Most of these items are also available digitally as well. There are many great
alternatives to always thinking we need to buy, buy, buy when we think we need something. What else can you think of? Check out more
great tips and add some of your own at www.consumeless.net.


The Natural Step Framework, System Condition 4 - Meeting Fundamental Human Needs

Building sustainable households by working towards meeting the fundamental need for every human
The final, but perhaps most important idea to look at within the Natural Step Framework is social equal-
ity. If the most basic human short term needs are not being met, then people cannot think about long term
sustainability. However, there are also many people who have abundant resources and all their “needs” are
being met, however they are still not making sustainable choices.

In this section of the sustainability guide, we will look at how we can make more sustainable choices in our
everyday activities to help increase social equality to so all humans can have their basic needs met to make
it possible to begin building a more sustainable life for ourselves, our community, and our world.



Think before you buy
By asking yourself a few simple questions before you make a purchase, you can change your shopping habits to better support sustainable
communities.

1. How was this item produced?
Many of the products sold are produced in developing countries where environmental standards are low and working conditions are poor. Re-
search companies that you frequently by products from and find out what their environmental policy is. Are they polluting the air and water
in the communities where their product is produced? Are they consuming large amounts of virgin raw materials, or do they use recycled ma-
terials and divert waste from landfills? It is also important to find out how their employees are treated. Are they working in dangerous condi-
tions where they are prone to injury or exposure to harmful chemicals? Are they paid a living wage that is enough to support themselves and
their families? Do they offer health care and other benefits to their employees to improve their quality of life?

Organic and fair trade products are often a great place to start in ensuring that these standards are being met. By purchasing locally grown
or produced items, you are also building your local economy and reducing the impact from transporting goods around the globe. A great
pocket resource for learning about companies when you’re on the go and making a purchase is “The better World Shopper Guide” where you
can learn about the best and worst companies rated on their social and environmental practices. You can visit their web-site http://www.
betterworldshopper.org/idea.html for more information.



2. Do I need this?
Part of the problem creating social equality and fairness is the distortion of what we actu-
ally “need”. The “keeping up with the Jones’” mentality and high exposure to marketing has
turned humans into consumers and made us want more, more, MORE! By asking ourselves
“do I need this?” before making a purchase, we can take a second to think about what we
have and all the resources needed to make the product you’re about to purchase.

3. Can I buy this used?
Thrift stores, donation centers such as the Salvation Army and Goodwill, and Craigslist are
just a few places to find used items. By purchasing used, you are not only saving money, but
are reducing the consumption of raw materials, helping divert usable items from becoming
waste, and reducing the energy needed produce and transport new goods.

http://www.globalissues.org/issue/235/consumption-and-consumerism 4. What else can I do besides throwing something “away” (and where is away?)
Once you’ve made a purchase, the next step is to consider what will happen to the product
Yellow - U.S. at the end of its life. Can it be recycled, donated, composted, or re-purposed to help divert
Blue - Developed
Countries waste from the landfill or incinerator? Did you consider the end of life when you made the
Brown - Undeveloped purchase? Does the manufacturer have a take-back program so you can return the product so
Countries
the raw materials can be salvaged? There are now many ways to recycle highly manufactured
products such as electronics which can be recycled at your local Best Buy, running shoes
which can be recycled at REI, and many usable household items and clothes can be donated
at your local Salvation Army or Goodwill. If you live in the Minneapolis area, these items
would otherwise be sent to the incinerator at the Hennepin Energy Resource Co.

http://www.mindfully.org/Sustainability/Americans-Consume-24percent.htm


Create a sense of responsibility for the future
Asking the yourself the previous questions can help reduce your consumption and the impact you have on social equality and conserving our
resources for the future. Below are a few more things to think about to build social equality for future generations.

1. Analyze your consumption and the impact of your family
Natural resources are decreasing while the demand is increasing. How will you be able to support your growing family
if resources become scarce? Is a large family sustainable in a world that has a population growing at an exponential
rate? At some point the earth will reach its carrying capacity and may not be able to support the growing human
population. While family size preferences are very personal and can be dictated by family traditions and religious
beliefs, it is sensible to analyze what size family you can support financially so the burden does not fall on community
and government programs. Producing your own food can also be a great way to offset your family’s social and
environmental impact.

2. Educate
Talk to your spouse, friends, and family about how you can be sustainable. Also, teaching your children or future children about sustainable
principles can instill important values for them to build a sustainable lifestyle for themselves and to pass along to future generations. The
impact you can have through influencing others to live a more sustainable lifestyle will be greater than any single impact you can have on
your own, so spread the word!


Audience - Young Adults and Young Families (Approximately age 23-35)
Summary
This inventory helps analyze the resources you are currently using in your home to begin recognizing where you can begin making changes
in your daily consumption choices for a more sustainable lifestyle. This table shows the inventory for a typical home in Minnesota for young
adults and young families, but you can add or subtract items and customize this table to reflect your home more completely.

Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Materials Inventory - Fall 2011

Category Source Use Impact
Electricity Xcel - Primarily coal and natural Heating, cooling, lighting, Consuming non-renewable resources,
gas electronics pollution

Water Municipal Systems (the great Drinking water, plumbing, Limited water supply, potential
lakes, ground water, Mississippi cleaning pollution
River and other rivers)
Food Some farmer’s markets, co-ops, Produce, Dairy, Meats, Grains, Some organic, some from large
grocery stores (Rainbow, Pick n Processed foods manufacturers with monocrops,
Save), gardens synthetic hormones in animals,
transported long distances, especially
in winter, poor living conditions for
animals at large factories and often un-
safe working conditions. Waste likely
ends up in a landfill or incinerator, but
same may be composted.
Textiles Target, Shopping Centers, Clothes, Linens, Towels, Huge water and energy use, chemical
Specialty home goods stores Draperies pollution from dyes and processing,
poor working conditions in developing
countries, collects in landfills
Electronics/Equipment Best Buy, Office Depot, Online, Computers, TV’s, Cell Phones, Many raw materials like plastics and
Target, Apple Store Video game stations metals used, many cannot or are not
recycled and end up in landfills, some
have a short useful life and require a lot
of energy for operation
Transportation Cars, Light rails, Buses, Commute for work, leisure, daily Use of oil and creating a dependency
occasional flights errands & activities on resources from other countries, high
levels of pollution, many in-efficient
vehicles are still being produced


Category Source Use Impact
Paper Products Target, Grocery Store, Office Toilet Paper, tissue paper, paper Deforestation, high water use during
Depot, book stores towel, books, mail, magazines processing, bleach and other chemicals
used, air and water pollution, some can
be recycled, some incinerated or sent
to the landfill
Cleaning Products Target, Grocery store Glass cleaner, kitchen and bath Releases chemicals into the air and
cleaners, laundry detergent water, some “green” products are
environmentally friendly, plastic bottles
discarded or recycled after use
Hygiene Products/Cosmetics Target, Specialty shops, Shampoo, deodorant, make- Many un-tested chemicals are used,
Department stores up, toothpaste, lotions, hair hormone disrupting chemicals can be
products released into our bodies, typically
lots of packaging and plastic or glass
containers, much is washed down the
drain
Housing Condo, Rental, Town home, Lumber, masonry, stone, cement Lots of raw materials used, high mainte-
single family home board, plastics, foams, metals, nance required, chemicals on lawns and
glass, lawns and landscaping in paints, many impervious surfaces cre-
ating run-off, high energy consumption
Furniture Idea, Furniture Specialty Stores, Chairs, couches, tables, desk, Use of raw materials, often shipped
boutiques shelves, bed long distances, end up in landfill or
incinerator, often highly manufactured
with materials that can’t be separated


Appendix B: Scenario-Building
Looking at Agricultural Food Production Practices in 2025
Summary
This tool can help you look at what might happen to the food production system through our choices in consumption. We are affected
by the situations in each scenario in that one way or another, our food choices are being controlled or limited. We have a very personal
relationship with food because what we eat can control our mood, health, and is part of many of our cultural traditions, so we need to be
aware if the availability and quality of our food is restricted. Food is such an essential part of daily life and survival, we should be able to
have control over our choices and in these scenarios, a lot of factors would be beyond our control and we would be subject to whatever is
made available to us by food producers.

Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Scenario Building - Fall 2011

Appendix B: Scenario-Building
Looking at Agricultural Food Production Practices in 2025

Genetically Engineered Farming
People have rejected the infiltration of large, corporate growers and government has moved to break Large corporations and biotechnology companies have essentially bought out the government leading
up large conglomerates so small farms again become the norm. However, they are now required to world-wide patent enforcement of GE seeds. Individuals can no longer plant their own natural
to all plant genetically engineered seed due to the patents held by biotech companies and cross- seed and undercut pricing by the large corporations has driven out the small growers.
contamination that inevitably took place.
Communities are struggling because individuals cannot afford to purchase the expensive seed and
Communities are struggling because they cannot afford the seed and chemicals required to grow chemicals. Hunger is pervasive through all third world countries because while food production has
them. Only the small farmers that cooperate with these companies have survived. In third world increased, they still lack access to these critical food supplies. Communities are also suffering from
countries, individuals can no longer grow their own food and people are forced to move into city pollution from the spraying of pesticides.
centers and fight for the limited industrial jobs. Large populations are pushed into malnutrition and
poverty. The environment as suffered greatly from a loss of biodiversity and small changes in climate
conditions can lead to huge losses of crop that are not resistant to local climate variations. The soil
The environment has suffered a huge loss of biodiversity and many crops are often lost to drought has also been degraded from the chemical spraying and has polluted the water supply in many areas.
and other natural causes that the plants are not resistant against. However, local farming has Much of the produce supply also carries these harmful chemicals and is ingested by humans during
reduced the cost of transportation in some areas. typical consumption leading to many serious health problems.

Economically, many jobs were lost during the break up of large conglomerates, but the local farmers Economically, corporations are thriving, but small farming communities are all but obsolete. Food is
that have survived are thriving. shipped globally from a few large suppliers and people are forced to drive to big box food stores with
only a few, expensive brand options that are less nutrient rich than their natural counterparts.

Small Local Farmers Large Commercial Farming
Mobilization of the general public has lead to strict regulation of the large conglomerates, eventually Large conglomerate corporations has bought out the small farms that had remained. However,
making their methods of production un-profitable and they have been broken up. Patents on seeds all farms have switched to organic farming methods. Environmental degradation has been greatly
have become obsolete and genetically engineered food is now longer grown and is being weeded out reduced, but most food is shipped across the country and across the globe before being consumed.
of existing crops.
Communities are benefiting from less pollution and less contaminated produce resulting in a
Communities are thriving and becoming food independent as new crops are grown for specific healthier lifestyle. However, small farmers have been put out of business because they cannot
regional conditions. Some areas experience food shortages in large cities where the small farmers compete with the efficiencies of the large corporations. Government has been pushing for tax cuts
can sometimes not support the large need for food. Prices have also gone up on some food items, and incentives that benefit the large companies and small farms are eventually bought out.
especially during the cold season when local farmers cannot product the full variety of produce
needed for fresh items. The environment is benefiting from the organic farming methods and the reduction of harmful
pesticides and fertilizers used to grow crops. However, a large amount of fossil fuels are still being
The environment is thriving from sustainable farming eliminating the pollution from chemical spray used by the huge machines and processing plants of the large corporations and to transport the goods
and benefiting from increased biodiversity. Bugs, birds, and other small animals along with humans around the country.
are no longer endangered from the toxic chemicals traditionally used by large farms.
Economically, corporations are making billions exploiting the organic foods industry and are making
Economically, many of the farmers that had been pushed out of business by large corporations are organic foods more accessible to the general public because of economies of scale. Small farming
able to sustain themselves again and agricultural farming becomes a desirable lifestyle again. Small towns have suffered though and become run down as small farms are shut down or bought out.
local markets are popping up everywhere and small towns see growth throughout the US.

Organic Farming
Sources: http://www.thefutureoffood.com/ Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Scenario Building - Fall 2011

Appendix C: Backcasting: Examining Our Daily Routine
The Path to Sustainability - Where we’re at and where we want to be

Current Situation Ideal Situation
Every morning many of us wake up to the sound of an alarm going off, drag In contrast to how we currently live our day to day lives, in a sustainable world,
ourselves out of bed and begin getting ready for work. We take a shower and things would be much different. In an ideal situation, we could wake up in the
soap ourselves up with heavily scented soap and shampoos while gallons of water morning at whatever time suites us best to be fully rested and most productive.
run down the drain. We use our many cosmetics and lotions, primarily in all We would take showers using minimal water heated from sustainable energy
plastic containers and ready ourselves to step into public. We sift through our sources and the soaps and cosmetics we use are made of natural products instead
over-loaded closet wondering what to wear and hastily grab the first thing we of synthetic chemicals created by chemical companies. The packaging would all
see that matches. We might eat breakfast, probably cereal or an individually be biodegradable or could be up-cycled, and the products don’t leave harmful
wrapped item we can eat on the go, or may just grab something on the road. chemicals in our water.

We get in our cars and drive to work. We sit in traffic in our gas guzzling cars and We have also transitioned into a time where most people can work from home the
distract ourselves with talking on the phone, texting, eating and whatever else majority of the week if not 100%, and those that do have to go in to work can take
we can do to make up for the time wasted during our commute. light-rail transportation that is convenient and fast. People that still need to drive
have small electric cars and a quick commute due to the reduced amount of traffic.
When we finally get to work, many of us spend our day in front of a computer,
sitting in a chair that will give us back problems, typing on keyboards that might We are also able to downsize our wardrobes since much less work wear is needed.
give us carpal tunnel, or maybe even doing more driving to attend meetings. For Breakfast would be a healthy option at home, likely a whole grain cereal with fruit
lunch, perhaps there is a cafeteria with a limited selection of meals, perhaps fast or preserves that have been grown locally. People have work stations set up at
food will be the best option, or maybe we brought something from home. At the home that increase productivity and also allow for flexibility so that people can still
end of the work day we gear up for the commute home, which is likely just as bad have time to exercise and live a healthy lifestyle, combining work with our daily
or worse than the commute to work. task more casually throughout the day with out the pressure of being at work a
specific number of hours and “punching the time clock” so to speak for an 8-5 day.
After work, then comes the time to make dinner, run errands or do some
shopping, get chores done around the house, or maybe even continue working. Because of this flexibility, people drive less, spend more time outside, and are
There might be time to exercise after likely sitting all day, unless you have a job generally healthier from less stress and inactivity caused by the “old fashion”
where you’ve been on your feet and now all you want to do is sit. Either way, work day. Much more time is also spent now cooking fresh, homemade meals that
a pre-packaged dinner from the freezer or a box with a few simple instructions are not polluted from plastic in the microwave and are cooked in pans that don’t
will likely be the meal of choice for dinner. We’ll probably heat it up in the release chemicals into our food. Everyone now also shops at farmer’s markets and
microwave in a plastic container or cook it on the stove with a teflon pan. We’ll co-ops where almost all their food comes from locally grown sources.
turn on the TV, hop on our computer, turn on a game console or whatever suites
us best to help us unwind. In the evenings people are engaged in community activities since much of their
time during the day is already spent at home. People are able to get to know one
Or maybe there were errands to run and we stop at Wal-Mart or our large retail another, build a stronger community, and solve local issues with everyone chipping
grocer to pick up a few things. Maybe we do a load of laundry to wash a few in to help. Our homes are also no longer riddled with harmful chemicals, but
items or feel the need to clean so we spray down our kitchen and bathrooms with use safe products that are also not harmful to the environment. Our furniture
bleach and other harmful chemicals. Our couches and carpets are also off-gassing is reusable and adaptable to be covered with eco-fabrics that do not pollute our
releasing more chemicals into our home and as we lay down to bed, we breath indoor air and we fall asleep more easily knowing the air we’re breathing is cleaner
them all in as we fall asleep. in our homes and outside from our reduced impact on the globe.
Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Backcasting - Fall 2011

Appendix C: Backcasting: Examining Our Daily Routine
The Path to Sustainability - How to get from here to there

1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
Transportation: Government regulations begin to Transportation: All automobiles are now Transportation: Only small, electric cars are sold
tighten on automobile manufacturer’s requiring electric and run on batteries that are made from and trucks and other large vehicles require a
higher MPG requirements and funding is provided sustainable materials or have clean engines with special permit to be purchases (ie. for business use)
to develop the most fuel efficient technologies. steam as the only output. City buses have been and can otherwise be rented by the public for use.
Cities also begin to focus on creating a better converted to electric hybrids and many train Light-rail systems and biking are the most common
infrastructure for public transportation. systems are being put into place. Smaller vehicles forms of transportation and massive highways
have also become the norm as people have realized are not as needed allowing for more permeable
Housing: Homes are retrofitted with energy large SUV’s aren’t necessary for city driving. surfaces in cities for water absorption.
efficient appliances, low flow fixtures and better
heating and cooling systems through tax incentive Housing: Homes are now running on green power Housing: Large homes are frowned upon and many
programs. from utility companies and many people have people are living in small houses in communities
installed their own energy sources such as wind that share gardens and swap homemade food items.
Work: More companies begin to offer employees and solar, producing more power than they are Since there is much more shared land, people are
one work-from-home day a week, realizing consuming. Community gardens have also become able to live closer to city and town centers to have
that it will save them money in operating costs popular so people can grow their own food. closer access to work, shops, and restaurants.
and give their employees more flexibility.
Online conferences and video chatting makes Work: The most progressive companies now Work: People are consuming less, but more jobs
communicating easy when employees are not in the allow their employees to work from home as have been created for innovating more ways to live
office. often as they like, with only a small central office sustainably. Most people are able to work from
that is a shared space for any required face-to- anywhere.
Goods and Services: TV ads and online marketing face meetings and as an additional resource for
is used as a tool to educate people in the risks employees. Goods and Services: Products are now being
of the many chemicals we interact with in our designed to limit waste, so technology can be
everyday lives. People begin to look for more eco- Goods and Services: The government has cracked updated instead of replaced, broken items can
friendly options in the products they buy and start down on large corporations that are producing be repaired, and worn-out items can have a few
trying to reduce their consumption of raw materials harmful products cheaply and at the cost of the components replaced while most remain intact.
through the goods they buy. Many people are also environment, causing many of them to close or Most companies now have take-back programs
switching to organic foods to support small farmers adapt to meet new regulations. Environmental for unusable items that can be broken down into
and reduce their impact on the environment degradation and social inequality caused by technical or biological components that are cycled
through less chemical use and transportation. companies is made public so consumers can make back into the system, practically eliminating the
informed decisions about their purchases. need to mine new raw materials.

Sarah Dehlinger - Design For Community - Backcasting - Fall 2011

Sustainability guide final

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