Rainwater is collected in a 4,000 gallon underfloor tank, filtered through a gravel bed and purified with ultraviolet, carbon and sediment filters. A constructed wetland processes liquid waste. What little wood is used for flooring, ceilings and doors is either salvaged or certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. The highly energy efficient structure uses cellulose insulation and triple-pane windows. A solar water heater is barely noticeable on the roof.
People identify with the ideas of self-sufficiency.
The house is virtually free to operate. A family could live here and be perfectly comfortable without using utilities. The initial cost is 15 to 20 percent higher, but the systems pay for themselves between 10 and 15 years. More details and photos appear at the Prescott College Web site. Obviously, your news item should relate to sustainable design and construction.