The admirable and lofty mission of an ecovillage to create a common, indefinite living solution for both people and nature has inspired unattainable expectations on my part. I envision a place where hi technology meets organic growth; imperfection, the system that monitors nature, is supported by systematized perfection that allows technology to do what nature cannot. In such a place everyone and everything is satisfied. The most important aspect of an ecovillage is that there are no losers. Unlike the polluted reality in which we are currently trapped where the success of the market, politics aland human development all hinge on the degradation of other vital components of the earth system, in an ecovillage the success of one not only leads to, but supports and makes possible the success of everyone else. This is possible with a blend of technology, innovation and natural design because, after all, the natural system was self monitoring and can be once again. Food chains, including water, power, plants and animals are the prevailing theme in ecovillages. If a food chain can be sustained from start to, well, start, then an ecovillage is successful. This means allowing for ‘imperfections’ such as weeds to enrich soil, but also using solar panels to provide heat and cook food for people. The most important part of an ecovillage is that it is not a downgrade for anyone. At its best, an ecovillage should be able to maintain and improve the quality of life for everyone. This understanding of an ecovillage leads to an expectation of peace and a vision of a self-supported system.

While I do not yet have the technical background to fully articulate how an ecovillage functions I have a fairly comprehensive understanding of what does not work. The relatively closed sample of Lehigh University will be the constant in this experiment (appropriately because it shows little sign of changing). There, food chains lead to far away places and unknown chemicals. Energy is derived from systems being deleted with visible proof. Limits are being approached both in the malleable financial department and the very real purchasing office. What I will look for in the ecovillage is how to build a future. The end is on the horizon for systems as close minded and short sighted as Lehigh, but closing loops and completing cycles is possible. I expect to uncover new cycles and learn how to tighten old systems. I look forward to living proof that people are not at odds with nature, but a positive force that can help the important circles of life, growth and decay be sustained.