Oceano Village’s Environmental Management Plan is to create a ‘closed system’ to arrive at a net-zero energy use community by effectively utilising the three main components of energy, water and waste. The development’s ethos states that no non-renewable resources may be taken from nature, nor given back in the form of pollution, which is defined as a wasted, non-collected resource.

• zero-carbon

Renewable energy sources utilised include wind and solar photovoltaics; where necessary bio-diesel back-up generators will be used. To reduce air conditioning reliance, buildings are designed to reduce the solar heat gain through well-insulated roofing systems, thermal mass walls and floors (concrete) and carefully positioned buildings and windows to create cross ventilation.

• zero-waste

Recycling bins will be provided in the houses and a recycling programme implemented when the first occupants move in during December 2008. An organic waste system using waste sludge from the sanitary system is proposed to fertilize onsite herb gardens, fruit orchards and market gardens. Building waste created during construction is recycled.

• sustainable water

Low-flow showerheads, low-flush toilets, and low-flow aerated faucets aim to reduce water consumption to only 40 gallons per day. The natural sanitary treatment system adopted cleans and clarifies the water to a potable, non-palatable state. Treated wastewater is used for irrigation. Created and natural permeable landscape areas aid surface rainwater absorption.

• local and sustainable building materials

All materials are local or natural – including the furnishings to limit off-gassing products within the homes. Use of renewable woods, such as non-producing rubber, bamboo or Honduran pine are encouraged for interior finishes and furnishings. Local labour and contractors are employed.

• sustainable transport

The entire site is designed to be pedestrian friendly with an extensive trail and path network. All streets are pedestrian-oriented and interspersed with stamped concrete ‘calmers’. Onsite, electric buggies will be available for owners and guests. A shuttle is provided for airport transfer; otherwise car sharing is encouraged.

Sonoma Mountain Village is a 200-acre zero carbon, zero waste development in Rohnert Park, near San Francisco, California, designed with a philosophy based on restoration instead of minimizing harm and utilising the 10 One Planet Living principles. Careful design and social marketing will intentionally foster a ‘local-first’ culture of healthier, more sustainable lifestyles.

• zero-carbon

New buildings are designed to beat California’s stringent Title 24 Energy Code by 80%. Existing buildings are being retrofited to reduce energy use by 50% or more. However, such measures fall short, so supplemental sources will include solar-electric heat pumps, biomass, biogas and ground-source heat pumps. Heating will be primarily served with passive solar features.

• zero-waste

In total solid waste sent to landfill to 2% by 2020, ensuring at least 70% of waste by weight is reclaimed, recycled or composted.

• sustainable water

Through extensive conservation measures, innovative water re-use in greywater and reclaimed water systems and massive rainwater harvesting, 1,900 homes will be added without increasing the use of municipally-supplied water to the site.

• local and sustainable building materials

20% of all materials will be manufactured on site; 60% will come from within 500 miles. Standard Specifications ensure local, reclaimed, renewable, recycled, healthy and low impact materials will be selected to maximize opportunities for cradle-to-cradle management.

• sustainable transport

Bicycling and walking are primary with pedestrian promenades, narrow tree-lined streets, paths and convenient bicycle parking everywhere. Other planned programmes include a plug-in hybrid carshare system, carpool concierge services and a free bicycle program. Neighborhood electric vehicles will be charged by solar arrays.

Guidelines to reduce environmental impact include: passive solar power; super-insulated or cold-roof design and thermopane glazing, and reducing window area on north- and northwest-facing elevations; no more than a quarter of the landscape area is permitted to be manicured lawn; and natural, non-toxic building materials that require little maintenance are used.

• zero-carbon

Passive solar power, thanks to proper orientation, massing, window location, shading, ventilation and shade structures, is a feature; radiant floor elements and electronically-controlled and programmable thermostats provide efficient heating.

• zero-waste

Recycling of non-organic matter will be undertaken and landfill items sorted to be kept to a minimum. Organic waste will be composted and reused where possible.

• sustainable water

Rainwater run-off is harvested and used for irrigation. Water-conserving toilets and flow-restricted taps are standard; grey-water recycling systems are in place.

• local and sustainable building materials

Local and indigenous timbers, boulders and stone are used in buildings. Recycled materials, such as plastic-lumber decking, are used where possible and appropriate.

• sustainable transport

A dedicated transportation ‘node’ minimises traffic through the resort. Retail areas are pedestrianised, and there are walking, bicycle and cross-country trails.