Sustainable living is the application of the principals of sustainability to the choices and decisions concerning one's way of life.  Sustainability means that the basic necessities of shelter as well as the social, economic, and ecological needs are met with sensitivity and concern for a harmonious, balanced and connected relationship with the existing ecological systems and environment. Additionally, the practice of sustainable design and development seeks to reduce the consumption of new materials by recycling and reusing, and by protecting natural resources for the future.

As with any self-imposed code of conduct or philosophy, a strong desire to modify one’s behavior and a commitment to a level of discipline, is foremost on any list of helpful ideas that will help achieve success in any worthwhile endeavor. In an attempt to avoid any detours into the esoteric, and for the sake of brevity, it may necessary propose that sustainable living involves both intellectual and physical steps that result in action, the latter of which is the focus here.

Superseding this list of ideas one may use to take action, are concepts that should be the goal of any individual wishing to live truly sustainably.  They are intended to inform anyone who has the means to take immediate action, and to serve as the last giant leap for those who find it necessary to take incremental steps.  The first, and probably the most important concept to living sustainably is the principle of thermal mass.  Thermal mass means to put as much material between the dwelling areas of a habitation and the outside elements.  Secondly, catch rain.  The universal deployment of rainwater harvesting systems has the potential to advert devastating ecological as well as social disasters. Finally, grow as much food as possible.  The access to one’s own food supply aside, energy that would otherwise be used in an undiversified supply system could be saved.  These endeavors can be practiced in whole or in parts until one has reached the desired level of sustainability whatever that may be.  Listed below are simple ways to start living sustainably.

Ten tips for living sustainably.

1.    Simplify one’s life.  Reduce the desire for things.

2.    Conserve water and examine ways that waste can be reduced.

3.    Recycle as much as possible, and reuse when practical.

4.    Implement alternative methods to heat and cool the home.  Heating and cooling a home requires more energy than any other system in the home.

5.    Explore ways to use the sun.  It is the source of all energy on earth, and can be used to create electricity, heat the home, and can be used to cook food and to heat and distill water.

6.    Choose energy efficient appliances when purchasing new ones.

7.    Use energy efficient lighting.  Compact fluorescent bulbs and low voltage lighting are an easy way to reduce energy consumption.  Unplug electrical devices when not in use.

8.    Use biodegradable household cleaners to reduce the impact to the environment.

9.    Look for building materials, paints and finishes that are non-toxic and pose a low impact to quality of life and the environment.

10.  When possible, use public transportation or carpool.

In conclusion, this parting advice is offered:  connect with others to share ideas and nurture the involvement of community and foster the support of a network necessary to propagate a collective state of sustainability.  Seemingly insignificant changes, if made by the masses, can have a far-reaching impact on the survival of our descendants, and the legacy left behind for them.