In light of the increasing disengagement between urban and rural areas, this book address the interdependency of cities with ecological and technological processes outside the purview of traditional urban planning. It compiles a huge amount of essays in regards to the most important topics that cities must address today, such as their connection with global data networks, ecological cycles of resources, which supersede the traditional boundaries of...

AGENDA is a catalog of 365 days, like a diary or journal: a collective narrative, personal and subjective. It documents the work and thinking of JDS Architects over a specific year marked by crisis, beginning on September 15th, 2008, the day that Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy. The form of the book exploits the double meaning of its title, presenting the absurdities of day-to-day architectural practice while also staking our intent. Rather than...

Permaculture is a sustainability buzzword, but many people wonder what it actually means and why it is relevant. Originally coined by combining the words permanent and agriculture, permaculture has evolved into an optimistic approach connecting all the systems of human life: gardening, housing, transportation, energy, and how we structure our communities. “The Permaculture Promise” explains in simple terms why permaculture may be the key to unlocking...

“Ambiguous Territory” brings together the work of over forty architects, landscape architects, artists, and historians engaged in an exploration of art and design's place in a time of environmental uncertainty and existential threat. Conceived in both environmental and disciplinary terms, the concept of "ambiguous territory" seeks to define conditions of uncertainty between nature and culture as well as architecture, art, and landscape. “Ambiguous...

Greg Cunningham continues his investigative reporting, but brings it home and keeps it more local with his Exposé on Sustainability. His small town is threatened with extinction when a big box store comes into the area and sucks out all of the money. He investigates the many facets of sustainability while the little town fights for its existence.

An EcoNest is not just a home-it is a breathtakingly beautiful structure that nurtures health and embraces ecology. This unique approach to construction combines light straw clay, timber framing, earthen floors, natural plasters, and other natural techniques with the principles of Building Biology to create a handcrafted living sanctuary. By bringing together time-honored traditions and modern innovations, owners of EcoNests enjoy living spaces that...

"The Tree Book” is the go-to reference to more than 2,400 species and cultivars, from two of the biggest names in horticulture-Michael A. Dirr and Keith S. Warren. The featured trees include those widely available in the nursery trade, some new and promising choices, and a selection of overlooked options that deserve renewed interest. Each tree profile includes the common and botanical names along with details on foliage, flowers, seeds, fruits,...

A deeply researched introduction to sustainability in the context of residential building codes, financial incentives, design, construction, planning, and public policy. An extraordinary timeline outlines the history and evolution of building codes and environmental legislation. As severe weather events and other environmental conditions have an increasingly direct impact on our homes, a greater understanding of the codes and regulations meant to...

"Driving Change" is an essential guide for industry leaders, policymakers, and consumers interested in the intersection of automotive development and environmental sustainability. This book delves into the historical impacts of the automotive industry, evaluates current challenges and opportunities, and explores innovative solutions to enhance sustainability. Starting with an introduction to the concept of sustainability specific to automotive contexts,...

Residential consumption represents nearly one quarter of North America's total energy use and the average homeowner spends thousands of dollars a year on power bills. To help alleviate this problem, Energy-Wise Landscape Design presents hundreds of practical ways everyone can save money, time, and effort while making their landscapes more environmentally healthy, ecologically rich, and energy efficient. Combining general guidelines with tips, techniques,...