A Proposal for the Eden Space Project
An Integrated Approach to Sustainability
The EdenSpace Project is not so much so much about a specific and concrete set of plans about the construction of an ecovillage, as it is about starting a larger social discussion about the creation of new urban spaces that involves the resurrection and reintegration of a Sacred Sense of Place into our Lives.
Setting an Example
Ecological projects can help persuade mainstream folk of the vital need to change their resource intensive lifestyles. The development and refinement of the Arcosanti vision (or similar minded community) might form an important element in the creation of organizations, and corporations--or even better, a vast social movement of people who dedicate their lives to this new paradigm of socioeconomic development-- that would go around the world redeveloping, redesigning as well as building new cities. Employing alternative technologies and approaches in a more integrated and holistic way.
To be sustainable we need not deprive ourselves or descend back into some pre-industrial past. One of the wonderful aspects of the Paradox vision at Arcosanti is that it sought to balance technology with responsibility to create a balance a more appropriate use of technology. Technology when used properly is a way to empower people and this includes media technologies and the internet in particular.
Practical Idealism
A place where ideals ate put into the context of workable solutions to create a livable urban space where residents share knowledge and talents, give time and expertise, and take responsibility for themselves, their neighbors and the planet.
Buildings will be situated in patterns that will ensure a continuous belt of open space within close walking or biking distance of residents and workers will community gardens and edible landscaping.
Seeking a successful balance between the reality of living in a technologically advanced society while still retaining an awareness of nature and living in balance with natural system.
A central district will serve as a hub of commerce, entertainment and education with pedestrian and bicycle access only; a bypass around this area provides auto access to residential and other areas of the city, although public transportation, ride sharing and alternative-energy vehicles are encouraged to decrease noise and pollution created from conventional vehicle motors and exhaust systems.
Quality of Life Issues
An integrated approach to sustainable development considers not simply the technological and economic constraints to sustainable but looks at how the social and cultural constraints of society inhibit the sustainable development of the human psyche. An alternative to present socioeconomic patterns of development therefore involves organizing the "social architecture" around quality of life considerations rather than simply more growth and development as is currently the case.
cooperative ownership
environmentally responsible
short work weeks
generous pay
safe and healthy work environments,
flexible hours
child care
Common facilities might include dining rooms, health clinics, parks exercise room spas etc, and it will be understood that culture and social interactions will be the centerpiece of any project that seeks to promote itself as a alternative to existing urban and social development patterns.
The three dimensional aspect of an EdenSpace Arcology is advantageous because the community is designed to evolve so despite the growth of the community leisure, work recreational and civic activities, will remain within close proximity to each other.
Progressive educational facilities
Stimulating leisure-time activities
Fulfilling work choices
Community-oriented place where people base their actions on mutual respect and recipricosity.