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Learn moreContext and Background
The report titled "The Regenerative Home" is published by SPACE10, a research and design lab associated with IKEA that focuses on exploring the future of living and sustainability. The document was uploaded to the database on March 22, 2023, and aims to address the pressing issues of energy-related carbon emissions and food waste generated by households, contributing significantly to global environmental challenges.
The Need for Regenerative Homes
Residential homes are responsible for approximately 17-21% of global energy-related carbon emissions, while around 11% of global food waste originates from households. This reality calls for a transformative approach to how homes are designed and built, seeking not only to minimize harm but also to contribute positively to the environment. "The Regenerative Home" report explores how homes can be reimagined to close the loop on resource consumption and produce more than they consume, ultimately benefiting both people and the planet.
Key Components of Future Homes
The report discusses four essential components that constitute a regenerative home: Building, Energy, Food, and Belongings. By focusing on these areas, the report outlines strategies for creating dwellings that align with sustainable practices and contribute to the wider ecosystem.
Insights from the Report
The report provides ten actionable insights aimed at promoting regenerative living through innovative design and practices:
- Retrofit for vitality: Revamping existing buildings to enhance energy efficiency and prolong their lifespan while uplifting local communities. 2. Re-construct: Emphasizing the reuse of building materials and furniture to minimize waste and reduce demand for new resources. 3. Build naturally: Advocating for the use of locally-sourced natural materials such as straw and clay, which can be safely returned to nature. 4. In-built energy: Integrating renewable energy systems like solar and green hydrogen into home designs to enable off-grid power generation. 5. Harness heat: Utilizing thermal energy from sources like data centers and sewer systems to power local buildings and reduce fossil fuel reliance. 6. Compost kitchens: Implementing composting systems in kitchens to utilize food scraps from home-grown produce, enhancing regenerative practices. 7. Waste with benefits: Designing sanitary systems that convert human waste into fertilizer, supporting plant growth and biodiversity. 8. Place-based production: Sourcing furniture and food locally to create jobs and inspire regenerative business models. 9. Care and share: Promoting the sharing of household items to extend their lifecycle and encourage recycling. 10. Activate data: Establishing neighborhood data networks to encourage regenerative behaviors that adapt to environmental changes and resource availability.
Conclusion
"The Regenerative Home" serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals and communities interested in sustainable housing solutions. By highlighting the critical role that homes play in environmental sustainability, the report inspires a movement toward living spaces that are beneficial for both occupants and the Earth, paving the way for a more sustainable future.