Eco-inspiration: green living ideas from around the world

The latest sustainability measures from throughout the world are providing new-found hope for the planet’s future.  

“There are many people out there who are looking at a problem and, instead of letting it get them down, are asking, ‘What can I do to fix it, to contribute to the solution’?” says Dr Dominique Hes, director of Thrive Research Hub at the Melbourne School of Design.

We take a closer look at five recent initiatives helping to create a more affordable and healthy future. 

1. Rwanda bans plastic bags

The impact of plastic waste on developing African countries is difficult to overstate. Last year alone, plastic clogged drains in Ghana caused a flood that killed 150 people and led to a fuel fire. 

Despite being a post-genocide nation with a developing economy, Rwanda has taken waste management to new levels beyond those of First World countries.

In 2008, the country passed a law banning the importation and use of polythene (plastic) bags. Anyone arriving in Rwanda is ordered to give up their plastic or have it confiscated, with offenders facing heavy fines or jail time.

Do your bit by saying no to plastic when you head to the supermarket each week. BYO reusable shopping bags provide an easy solution, they’re better for the environment and reduce waste in the home.

2. Seawater Greenhouse

Seawater Greenhouse aims to lessen the burden of climate change and the rising global population on the Earth’s freshwater and food resources.

The concept provides a low-cost solution for enabling year-round crop production using seawater and sunlight.

The Saltwater Greenhouse in Abu Dhabi has been producing successful crops and supplying more water than required for irrigation since 2000.

A new approach to restorative agriculture. Photo: Seawater Greenhouse

3. France bans supermarket waste

A United Nations report says the 1.3 billion tonnes of food wasted each year causes economic losses of $750 billion and significant damage to the environment.

Helping to minimise this impact is France, which recently became the first country in the world to ban supermarkets of more than 400 square metres from throwing away or destroying food. 

Under this law, all unsold but still-edible food must be donated to a charity or food bank.

4. Zero-waste lifestyle

Advocates of the US coined “zero-waste lifestyle” aim for completely rubbish-free households, producing no more waste than can fit into a small jar each year. 

Since 2009, Bea Johnson has had zero waste “on autopilot” in her New York family home. 

One way her family significantly reduce rubbish is by making their own cleaning and beauty products. 

“Their cumulative money savings have even allowed to install solar on our roof, which saves even more … zero waste is truly a gift that keeps on giving,” Johnson says. 

Bea Johnson’s trash for 2015. Photo: Zero Waste Home

5. Eco-villages

Associate Professor Lu Aye, member of the University of Melbourne Energy Institute Energy Efficiency and Smart Grids research groups, points to the positive impact of eco-villages such as in Mildura, Victoria.

The Mildura Eco Village is a council-supported initiative aimed at educating the community about regional self-sufficiency, and how to mitigate and adapt to climate change.  

Included on the village’s four-hectare site are sustainable design elements including Eco House – a house that’s been redesigned and retrofitted with a range of energy and water-saving features. 

The Community Garden at Mildura Eco Village. Photo: Mildura Eco Village