Health and environment, reading

Read the text and do the tasks.

Nowadays more than ever before people all over the planet are seeking new sustainable models for living. “Going green” – it’s a phrase that’s becoming more and more common as everyone starts to realize the enormity of the environmental challenges we all face. But what can ordinary people actually do to reduce their carbon footprint? 

1. For modern people it has become a tendency to try living in harmony with nature.

The green movements are catching on with lots of people in all parts of the world, but this is especially true in the construction industry. Purchasing an environmentallyfriendly home is a good investment for those who are concerned about their own health and the well-being of our planet. Based on this trend, entire districts, known as ecocommunities, are being designed. Their planners and builders have the environment in mind with every choice they make. They ensure proper ventilation and guarantee residents clean air indoors. Interior and exterior building materials, such as paints and wood, are natural and non-toxic. 

2. Eco-houses are built from modern building materials and equipped with high-tech appliances.

Energy efficiency is one of the top priorities in eco-communities. Not only do energy-efficient appliances and light fixtures reduce the environmental impact of heating, cooking, and lighting, they also save residents money. Each resident has his/her own individual utility metres for electricity and gas, and studies show that people use around 20% less energy when they are billed for exactly what they use.

3.People do not save energy in eco comminities

Eco-communities also take the future into account by recycling waste and reducing carbon emissions. In such communities, waste water is treated and reused on-site for flushing toilets, and a biomass gas plant converts waste wood into a renewable form of gas for hot water systems, stoves and gas heaters. The residents join the community’s car share program and use local suppliers for all their transport and utility needs.

4.Eco-communities reuse water and recycle waste to provide for themselves

Similar green communities are now found all over the world, especially smaller ones known as ecovillages or “intentional communities”. Most have 50 to 150 residents, all of whom are trying to create a future model for sensible living: in harmony with the environment, protecting vital natural systems, and fostering good relations with neighbours, both of the human and animal variety. They farm, garden and grow healthy organic food within their communities.

5.Going green means existing in a separated area, farming, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. 

Findhorn in Scotland is one such ecovillage. It is internationally known as the home of the Findhorn Foundation – a self-reliant eco-friendly community based on shared values. People there promote, and live the vision of creating a better world by starting with themselves. Findhorn is a dynamic experiment; it is home to an award-winning reforestation project, Trees for Life. This is the largest intentional community in the United Kingdom, and has been measured as having the lightest ecological footprint of any community in the country. 

6.The Findhorn ecovillage is a home for people who want to bring about change in the world, teaching others.

Findhorn in Scotland is one such ecovillage. It is internationally known as the home of the Findhorn Foundation – a self-reliant eco-friendly community based on shared values. People there promote, and live the vision of creating a better world by starting with themselves. Findhorn is a dynamic experiment; it is home to an award-winning reforestation project, Trees for Life. This is the largest intentional community in the United Kingdom, and has been measured as having the lightest ecological footprint of any community in the country. 

7.The main aim of ecovillages is to know more about environmental problems and create a positive future for themselves.

. Findhorn in Scotland is one such ecovillage. It is internationally known as the home of the Findhorn Foundation – a self-reliant eco-friendly community based on shared values. People there promote, and live the vision of creating a better world by starting with themselves. Findhorn is a dynamic experiment; it is home to an award-winning reforestation project, Trees for Life. This is the largest intentional community in the United Kingdom, and has been measured as having the lightest ecological footprint of any community in the country. 

8. The Findhorn ecovillage has received some awards for their nature protecting projects. 

9. Match the following definitions with words:

1) a group of people who have chosen to live together with a common purpose

2) an organic material that comes from plants and animals

3) the act of planting trees on an area of land that has become empty or spoiled

4) long-lasting and environmentally-friendly

5) concepts, beliefs and principles that form the culture of an organisation

a -internatinal communities

b-biomass

c-sustainable

d-reforestation

e-shared values

10. Match the following definitions with words:

1. the amount of carbon dioxide produced by the activities of a person

2. a device that measures the amount of electric energy consumed by a residence

3. small power station which produces electricity from organic material

4. using as much energy as it is needed without wasting it

a-energy efficient

b-utility metres

c-biomass gas plant

d-carbon footprint

11......destroys trees and damage buildings

12.The ...... seriously threatens the marine life around the islands.