July 3, 2023 - Amy Erickson
Sustainable living is a growing movement that seeks to reduce our impact on the
environment and live in harmony with nature. Our Coquina homes offer a unique opportunity to live sustainably by combining small-space living with the benefits of living on the water. In this blog post, we’ll explore some sustainable living practices that can be applied when living on your Coquina.
Energy-efficient appliances
Choosing energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce energy consumption and save money on utility bills. It is important to look for appliances with an Energy Star rating, which indicates they meet energy-efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Energy-efficiency appliances will also include your water heater and your lighting system. Choosing appliances that are appropriate for the space and your individual usage will minimize waste as well.
Renewable energy
Your Coquina has the advantage of being surrounded by abundant renewable energy sources. Solar panels can be installed on rooftops to capture the sun’s energy and provide electricity for daily needs. Utilizing this and other renewable energy sources not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also helps to minimize our local carbon footprint.
Water conservation
Living sustainably on a Coquina necessitates efficient water management practices. Coquina homeowners can implement rainwater harvesting systems, collecting and storing rainwater for various purposes such as gardening, cleaning, and flushing toilets. Advanced water filtration and purification systems can be employed to ensure access to clean drinking water. Moreover, the use of water-efficient appliances, such as low-flow showerheads and faucets, can significantly reduce water consumption. By implementing these measures, you can conserve precious freshwater resources and minimize the impact on the environment.
Waste reduction
Reducing resources used when building is crucial to sustainable living. Your Coquina home will be constructed with minimal waste and using eco-friendly local resources. While living on your Coquina you can reduce waste by composting food scraps, recycling, and using reusable containers and bags instead of single-use plastics. These platforms present unique opportunities for sustainable food production as well. Vertical gardens and hydroponic systems can be utilized by homeowners to grow a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, reducing reliance on imported produce and minimizing carbon emissions associated with transportation.
Eco-friendly cleaning products
While living in your Coquina home, choosing eco-friendly cleaning products can significantly reduce the number of harmful chemicals released into the water. Look for products that are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals such as bleach and ammonia. Investing in high-quality, durable cleaning tools and equipment also contributes to sustainability, as they can be used for a longer period, minimizing the need for frequent replacements. By prioritizing sustainable cleaning products in your Coquina, you can maintain cleanliness while minimizing your ecological footprint.
Natural ventilation and SWAC
Your Coquina home will have plenty of natural ventilation to take advantage of cool breezes off the water. Natural ventilation, primarily doors and windows that can be opened to allow fresh air to circulate, can be utilized to reduce the need for air conditioning. Our larger platforms in the future will be equipped with Sea Water Air Conditioning units. Utilizing the temperature differences between deeper waters and surface waters to produce energy, SWAC units typically run at 15% of the power consumption of conventional cooling units.
Sustainable materials
When building our Coquina platforms, we choose materials that will withstand not only the elements, but also the test of time. Building you a home that will last is the ultimate in sustainability. When decorating your Coquina, choosing materials such as bamboo, cork, or recycled wood makes your home more eco-friendly. These materials are renewable and have a lower environmental impact than traditional building materials.
Conclusion
Sustainable living on a Coquina offers a unique opportunity to live in harmony with nature while reducing our impact on the environment. By being mindful of the products we use within our new homes we can create a sustainable lifestyle that benefits both us and the environment. By choosing to live intentionally we can take a step towards a more sustainable future.
Reserve your Coquina today at Arktide.org/coquina.
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