The Problem

Problem Statement

Scientific studies since 1896 has proven that climate change is a problem that affects the world. In recent times, unsustainable housing practices have contributed to this problem with buildings globally using "35% of resources, 40% of energy use, consume 12% of the world's drinkable water, and produce almost 40% of carbon emissions, and many of these buildings are homes".

Problem Background and Statistics

Housing prices have been increasing, while home ownership has been decreasing.

Globally, buildings use 35% of resources, 40% of energy use, consume 12% of the world's drinkable water, and produce almost 40% of carbon emissions, and many of these buildings are homes.

The world population is projected to reach 8.5 billion in 2030, and to increase further to 9.7 billion in 2050 and 11.2 billion by 2100

The number of households is increasing at a greater rate than the population and this means more land, energy, and building materials are being used.

Validation

Unsustainable housing is a global problem, that if solved will have a large positive impact on the environment. Current homes are often a burden on the environment because of the materials and energy sources used for the home. Climate change is a problem that the whole world is facing, so everyone should care about taking action against it. Although not the only cause of climate change, unsustainable housing is a key factor worth attacking. Houses are also becoming increasingly more expensive, which all current and future homeowners should be concerned about. A solution that addresses both the environment and cost of unsustainable housing would be beneficial for homeowners and the environment as a whole.

Experts

"I believe people should be allowed to live as simply as they choose. Since the recent housing bust, bank bailouts, and subsequent economic downturn, there has been increasing demand for well-designed, affordable homes, and more sensible laws. I’ve spent the past eighteen years refining my designs to produce some of the most high-functioning tiny homes available. To work well, such a structure has to meet the specific needs of its occupant(s), without waste or excess. The houses I currently offer through Four Lights Tiny House Company are designed to do just that: provide homeowners with everything they want and need, and nothing they don’t. To date, they are my very best.” -Jay Shafer, Tiny House Designer at Tumbleweed Tiny House Company (Cotati, CA)

Kevin Casey, CEO and founder of New Avenue Inc, kevin@newavenuehomes.com

Gretchen Venkatesh, gvenkatesh@cv.k12.ca.us

Consumer Surveys and Interviews

Results from our consumer survey below

Scholarly Articles

"Sustainability is a word that has been used more frequently over the years with reducing carbon emissions and saving the environment on the top of everyone’s agenda. This has caused several homeowners to relocate from traditional bricks-and-mortar houses into different types of accommodation."

"There are many beneficial aspects to the small house movement and the trend toward living in smaller spaces. There are benefits to individuals and society. People who live in smaller living spaces generally own fewer possessions, consume less, and have lower utility bills. Smaller homes require less building materials for construction and smaller land use – therefore costing much less to purchase, maintain, and live in. Construction of smaller homes can utilize more efficient, natural, healthy, high-quality materials that might not be affordable in a larger dwelling. All of these benefits result in healthier, more cost effective living, and a better environment."

"Housing is, practically by definition, an environmental issue. Where we build housing says a lot about our views on and treatment of the land on which we live and how welcoming we are of all in every neighborhood. Yet “environmental policy” rarely addresses housing, despite it having a significant impact on land usage, vehicle emissions, climate change, and our carbon footprint."

Sources

https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/eco-friendly-homes-millennials-housing-market/48708/

https://smallhousesociety.net/designers-builders/

https://www.un.org/en/sections/issues-depth/population/

https://multicomfort.saint-gobain.co.uk/how-do-buildings-affect-the-environment/

http://sciencenetlinks.com/science-news/science-updates/houses-and-environment/

https://www.upforgrowth.org/news/housing-environmental-issue-our-time