The Belarusian Division of the International Academy of Ecology (BD IAE) has developed a successful sustainable housing program for people displaced by the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. Using wood frames and rye straw covered with stucco, they have built over 100 homes to date. Since 1998, the houses have also been equipped with low-cost solar collectors. This project was a finalist for the 2007 World Habitat Awards.

Photo from the World Habitat Awards website

Quoted: This project uses straw-bale construction methods to provide low-income households in the Chernobyl area of Belarus with healthy, low-energy and inexpensive shelter.

A great article on sustainable home design by Abigail Goldman of the LA Times, published on July 29, 2007. Goldman highlights simple and affordable ways to cut carbon emissions and lower energy bills.

Quoted: “Forty percent of America’s carbon emissions comes from buildings — almost half — and utility bills are a major factor in household bankruptcy,” said Carl Pope, executive director of the Sierra Club. “You can reduce your utility bill by 50% or 60% relatively easily. That’s one-fifth of the total carbon emissions today. It’s a huge part of what we have to do.” Making those eco-friendly changes at home has become simpler and more affordable.

Green Hammer is an innovative construction company that focuses on LEED-certified buildings. The Green Hammer website contains detailed information on the firm’s values, methods, and projects.

Photo appears on the Green Hammer site.

The World Green Building Council is an important example of global cooperation in support of sustainable building practices.

Quoted: The World Green Building Council is a union of national councils whose mission is to accelerate the transformation of the global property industry towards sustainability. WorldGBC supports member councils’ efforts to adopt and implement market-based transformation tools — such as BREEAM, CASBEE, Green Star and LEED — that meet local needs.

LivingHomes develops LEED® platinum residences that can be built rapidly based on a modular system that reduces waste and accommodates customization. This a fascinating video of a model home being installed in 8 hours.