Sustainability? What is that all about?

      Sustainability is simply another way of saying "independence", as it applies to energy and other resources. More sustainability means less dependence on external sources for "expendables" like fossil fuels, food, etc.  It also refers to the "carbon footprint" you might have, ecologically speaking.

 

      Obviously, at the design stage, if we are clear about what we need to live, work, and play, qualify what the "energy overhead" is for that package, and design the boat around that package of needs, we can design true sustainability (independence) into our lifestyle.

     For a catamaran to move, it needs energy. To meets its energy needs, we can supply it with wind in the sails and increase sail surface for more energy. We can use a variety of resources for an engine. Traditionally steam and later electricity and diesel have been used until diesel became a sort of mantra in the boating world.

    Until recently, that was a conundrum of mind-closing proportions and it is only recently that the diesel mantra has been questioned. Fuel costs can easily add up to 1000's of dollars or euros, every year! Recent technological breakthroughs now give plenty of alternatives, including energy from solar panels and wind turbines. The designs of both solar panels and wind turbines have improved tremendously and have doubled or tripled efficiency. A true revolution is taking place as we are speaking!

A transportation system which supports a sustainable society is one that:

•  Allows individual and societal transportation needs to be met in a manner consistent with human and ecosystem health with equity within and between generations.

•  Is safe, affordable, accessible, operates efficiently, offers choice of transport mode, and supports a vibrant economy.

•  Protects and preserves the environment by limiting transportation emissions and wastes, minimizes the consumption of resources and enhances the existing environment as is practicable.

Sustainability is simply another way of saying "independence", as it applies to energy and other resources. More sustainability means less dependence on external sources for "expendables" like fossil fuels, food, etc.  It also refers to the "carbon footprint" you might have, ecologically speaking.

 

Obviously, at the design stage, if we are clear about what we need to live, work, and play, qualify what the "energy overhead" is for that package, and design the boat around that package of needs, we can design true sustainability (independence) into our boat, and our lifestyle.

 

Basically sustainability is the ability to maintain the current situation.

•  The more sustainable, the less has to be retrieved from outside sources.  

•  The more sustainable, the more independent and self-reliant.

 

So the more sustainable your original design, the fewer resources.... which always cost money!.... you have to add.

 

On the other hand, if you have haven't thought through the original design well, then you will have to add resources later, sometimes at the most inconvenient times!

 

Hopefully, this page will give you a picture of what to think about, what to expect, and what to plan for.

 

It means that, if you are willing to do your homework, you get the best quality (and experience!) for the best price, and the best performance/price ratio. That does not mean that it is, necessarily, the cheapest when you buy or outfit the boat, but rather that it is the most cost effective for both the quality of life you want to achieve and the long-term costs of same, such as over 10 to 20 years. This includes things like resale price, yearly maintenance and resource fees, and a structure and parts that last and last...

 

A Happy Life for All...

Clean Living

With 7 billion people on this planet, we want to limit our personal pollution - noise, smells, oil, chemicals - to a livable minimum. So how do we do that?

A. We use Electric Power

1. A sailing catamaran with electric motors for alternative propulsion
2. All-electric cooking equipment, navigation electronics, hot water and air conditioning, water making, entertainment, computer and communications.

How do we make our electricity?

1. Solar Panels
2. Wind Turbines
3. Regenerative Sailing
4. Just in case, we can also have a back-up generator 

B. We are as Self-Sustained, and as comfortable, as is reasonable.

1. We are seasteaders, producing our own food (with a stable, non-heeling platform, hydroponics is a real option!), water, and energy.
2. We don't go 'overboard': we use moderation in buying, growing, and consuming our own food.

Experiencing life

A. We travel and share our adventures

1. We live aboard a catamaran and travel around the world to report back to you
2. We are sociable, friendly, and freely share our experiences

B. We are part of our environment and our community

1. We are globe trotters, and a part of a community of globe trotters.
2. We believe in the Golden Rule of mutual sharing.

C. We make an on-going living using our skills