Self-sufficiency

“Self-sufficiency” means being able to provide for the basic needs of food, water, clothing and shelter, without having to purchase or engage in trade to obtain these objects.

In order to achieve these goals, a physical foundation—a “community”—is required as a starting point. The initial goal of the community is self-sufficiency—not to be dependent upon society to provide the basic necessities of life. This can be achieved through organic farming and ranching (humans are, by design, omnivorous), private wells or rivers, and either naturally available energy (gas, wood) or alternative energy (solar power, wind power or zero-point modules). Structures should be designed with Feng Shui^[1] in mind, to keep a proper bioenergetic balance through the community and to account for differing needs for individuals and families.

Self-sufficient design depends strongly upon the available resources. It is always best to use what is available, but resources should only be consumed if they can be renewed. For example, if you burn wood for heat and cooking, plant trees to replace what has been used, and a little more, so you are always on a positive-surplus curve. Always create more than you consume.