SAMPLE ANSWERS

Houses in Ecovillages

• What materials are commonly used to build eco-friendly houses in an ecovillage? Why are they better for the environment?
  • Cob and straw are commonly used because they are natural, renewable, and have low environmental impact. They also insulate houses well, keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer.
  • Recycled materials like bottles and tires are used in eco-homes. They reduce waste and give new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
• If you could design your own house in an ecovillage, what unique feature would you include and why?
  • I would include a green roof covered in plants because it helps with insulation, improves air quality, and looks beautiful.
  • I’d design a house with large south-facing windows to maximize sunlight for natural heating and light during the day.
• Would you prefer to live in a house made of natural materials, like cob or straw? Why or why not?
  • Yes, because it feels closer to nature and is better for the environment. I’d love the idea of living in something handmade and unique.
  • No, because I’d worry about the durability in extreme weather. I prefer materials like brick or concrete for safety.
• What do you think your current house could learn from eco-friendly housing?
  • It could use better insulation to save energy and reduce electricity bills.
  • Adding a rainwater collection system would be a great way to conserve water.

Food

• How do ecovillages grow their food sustainably? List two practices and explain their benefits.
  • They use organic farming, which avoids chemicals and keeps the soil healthy.
  • Permaculture allows plants to grow in layers, like a natural forest, which saves space and water.
• Why is food sharing important in ecovillages? How does it help reduce waste?
  • It ensures that no food goes uneaten—extra food is shared instead of thrown away.
  • It strengthens community bonds and helps people save money by pooling resources.
• Do you know where most of your food comes from? How does that make you feel?
  • Most of it comes from supermarkets, and I don’t like not knowing how it’s grown or what chemicals might be used.
  • I know some of it comes from local farmers, which makes me feel better because it supports small businesses.
• If you had to grow your own food, what would you start with? Why?
  • I’d start with tomatoes because they’re easy to grow and can be used in many dishes.
  • I’d grow leafy greens like spinach because they grow quickly and are nutritious.
• Have you ever shared meals with a group of people? How did it feel compared to eating alone?
  • Yes, and it felt more fun and connected. Everyone shared stories, and the food felt more special.
  • No, but I think it would be great to share meals because it sounds like a good way to bond with others.

Water

• How do ecovillages manage their water supply without depending on external sources?
  • They collect rainwater in tanks and use it for drinking, cooking, and gardening.
  • They reuse greywater for irrigation, reducing their need for fresh water.
• Do you or your family use any water-saving practices at home? If not, what’s one change you could make?
  • Yes, we turn off the tap while brushing our teeth to save water.
  • No, but we could start by fixing leaks and using a bucket instead of a hose for cleaning.
• Imagine you had to rely only on rainwater for a month. How would your daily routine change?
  • I’d take shorter showers and reuse water from washing vegetables for plants.
  • I’d become more careful about wasting water and plan its use more efficiently.
• What’s the most creative way you’ve seen water being reused or saved?
  • I saw a system where rainwater was collected on the roof and used for flushing toilets.
  • A friend waters her garden with water left over from washing fruits and vegetables.
• What is greywater, and how can it be reused safely in an ecovillage?
  • Greywater is used water from sinks and showers. It can be filtered by plants in a reed bed and reused for irrigation.
  • It’s lightly dirty water that can’t be used for drinking but can safely water non-edible plants after treatment.

Energy

• Imagine an ecovillage with limited sunlight for solar panels. What alternative energy sources could they use?
  • They could use wind turbines if it’s a windy area.
  • Biogas from organic waste could be used to generate energy.
• What types of renewable energy are commonly used in ecovillages? Why are they preferred over fossil fuels?
  • Solar panels are common because they provide clean, renewable energy.
  • Wind power is used because it’s sustainable and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
• If you could choose any renewable energy source for your home, which one would it be and why?
  • Solar energy because it’s reliable and works well in sunny places.
  • Wind power because it’s eco-friendly and doesn’t take up much space.
• Do you think you could live in a house without electricity for a week? What would be the hardest part?
  • Yes, but it would be hard not to use the fridge or charge my phone.
  • No, because I’m too used to having lights and appliances.

Community

• How would you feel about sharing resources like tools, kitchens, or gardens with your neighbors?
  • I’d enjoy it because it would save money and reduce waste.
  • I’d feel unsure at first, but I think I’d appreciate the community feeling.
• If you had to explain ecovillages to a friend, what would you tell them?
  • Ecovillages are places where people live sustainably by sharing resources and caring for the environment.
  • They’re communities focused on growing their own food, using renewable energy, and living in harmony with nature.
• What’s one thing you’ve learned about self-sufficient living that surprised or inspired you?
  • I didn’t realize how much water and energy could be saved with simple changes.
  • I’m inspired by how ecovillages work together as a community, it feels very meaningful.
• If you moved to an ecovillage, what role or job would you like to take on?
  • I’d help grow food because I love gardening and being outdoors.
  • I’d work on water management because I find it fascinating and important.