Related Terms

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Background

• The terms green community, eco-community, and eco-village refer to communities founded, in part, on the principles of sustainability (where humans replenish the natural resources they use at the same rate those resources are used). Green communities often use strategies to either reduce their environmental footprints, or to reduce their negative impact on the surrounding environment. These communities often use renewable energy sources (energy that is replenished by nature) such as solar power; they may also create compact buildings that are constructed with environmentally friendly materials, they may offer alternative transportation options, and they often make an effort to preserve open space.
• Green communities may follow the particular environmental beliefs of a founding member, other members, or another philosopher. Green communities, though, are not to be confused with communes. Both communes and green communities share resources, but a commune's guiding philosophy may take many forms and is not necessarily based on principles of sustainability. A green community may combine a desire to protect the environment with strategies for improving the physical and mental health of its residents and its economic survival. It may also support many cultures and the principle of equality among its residents, regardless of race, gender, or age.
• The idea of living in harmony with nature is not a new one. For many centuries, communities as a whole had to conserve their resources and protect their surrounding environments in order to survive. Fertile soil, clean air, and clean water were necessary for a healthy existence.
• Technology has changed the way in which people interact with the environment. Modern forms of transportation, housing, and the need to find food have all put constraints on the planet's resources and polluted the environment, negatively affecting public health.
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Technique

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Theory/Evidence

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Health Impact/Safety

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Future Research or Applications

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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