As Earthrise becomes a reality, so will our environmental goals: Building Materials: Our homes will be built with materials like locally harvested and sustainable lumber, straw bales, compressed earth blocks (adobe), cellulose insulation, compressed straw panels (replaces OSB), and natural plasters. Unlike conventional construction, using mostly natural materials is less taxing on the environment before construction, reduces the waste during construction, and minimizes off-gassing after construction. Energy: Our buildings will be designed to maximize both passive and active solar gain. Thereby significantly reducing our dependence on the oil and gas industry. Recycling: Phoenix Recycling, a very environmentally conscious company, will take care of our garbage disposal and recycling needs during and long after construction. Transportation: We intend to create a car share program that would allow our members to have access to a variety of vehicles that would best suit their daily needs. Such a program would include alternative fuel types such as electric and bio-diesel, and vehicles ranging from mopeds to commuter cars to SUVs and trucks. Bicycles are of course always encouraged. Food & Storage: Our common house will serve many functions. It will have office space, a dining hall for shared meals and other group activities, meeting rooms, food storage, and other types of recreational space. We also plan to make bulk food purchases from companies like Tuscon Cooperative. All of these spaces along with the food buying program will make it less likely for our members to have to waste time and gas commuting.