The micro homes movement has started to get big. So-called tiny homes are being embraced by those who are interested in living a more sustainable lifestyle, not only to create financial freedom but also to reduce the impact they make on the environment.
Those who are new to tiny homes might have a lot of questions about this housing choice. What, exactly, are tiny homes? What are they actually like to live in every day? How do they help the environment?
The definition for a micro home varies, but it typically includes homes that are anywhere from 90 square feet to 800 square feet. Some are no bigger than the shed that might be in your backyard right now. The emphasis inside a tiny home is on design, not open space. Therefore, the home takes advantage of vertical space, with loft beds, cabinets that run all the way to the ceiling, and more. Convertible furniture is a must, such as beds that pull out of the walls or desks that turn into dining spaces.
Here are a few of the many ways that these homes can help to reduce a family's impact on the environment:
Use of Fewer Building Materials
Because micro homes take up less square footage, they also naturally use up fewer building materials. In fact, many people also use recycled or repurposed materials to build these homes. Enterprising homeowners can build a tiny home for as little as $20,000 if they rely primarily on recycled materials.
Whether using new or recycled materials, you will still be consuming far fewer materials than you would with the construction of a traditional home, and that will help you save on natural resources, reduce consumption of fossil fuels, and more.
Reduced Energy Consumption
Not only do micro homes automatically require less energy to light, heat or cool, but they also typically use an "off the grid" system. This means that they aren't plugged into a standard electricity source. These homes rely on gas heat, wood burning heat, and other closed systems.
Tiny homes often use barrels to collect rainwater, and have composting toilets that reduce water use and turn some of that waste into usable fertilizer. The water and electric system in these homes is much like that of a camper or RV, so those living in the homes do not suffer any inconvenience.
Less Land Mass
Tiny homes are built to be mobile. They aren't built on a concrete slab foundation; they are built on wheels, just like a mobile home. That means that they can travel and be parked anywhere an RV can be parked. It also means they take up considerably less land.
You can buy a plot of land and build your tiny home on it if you want to create a more permanent space. You can buy pecan trees, grow apple trees, or even start an avocado tree orchard. You can start your own farm -- you'll have so much additional land that you can make much better use of the space to grow your own food and create a more sustainable lifestyle.
Small homes aren't just a passing fad. More and more people are choosing these tiny homes as they realize the benefits not only to their pocketbooks, but also to the environment. Consider looking into this alternative housing to discover the financial freedom you crave and to reduce your environmental impact.
Written by Jane Brown
