In the article, "This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”, Peters (2016), linked us with a project titled “Motown Movement”, whereby three students purchased a house and converted it into a sustainable cost-efficient living model in Detroit. Their aim was to achieve sustainability through cost-efficient approach by transforming run-down houses into affordable and sustainable buildings. In their house, the lower level will be a “training centre” while the upper level houses a family in need. In-house systems includes solar panels, a “greywater system” and a “septic tank” as sources of renewable energy. Lukkes, one of the three students, stated that through collaboration with their university, they can ensure that their project can become universal and reach other countries. In my opinion, the students have a practical idea in implementing these changes to the Detroit community, yet these changes may be too ambitious due to the social impact and capital needed.
The ideas the students came up with for the project are practical since it utilizes various sources of such as sunlight and rain. Both are natural sources which could be further tapped into and used. Sunlight can be converted into solar energy and rainwater could be collected. Thus, it is practical and easy to sustain. The septic tank and connection of the house to waste heat from nearby industry are also practical since it reuses waste into productive materials.
Although the implementation of the solar panels may seem practical, the cost for each panel does not come cheap. The initial capital needed for the solar panels would cost an enormous amount. For example, a 5-kilowatt rooftop solar installation from “Srinergy”, a program formed by the partnership between MI Solar Works and Novi Solar, costs $14,800(CBS Detroit, 2013). The installation cost is definitely not cheap, but in the long run, it reduces the monthly electric bill by $75. It has a life span of 25 to 30 years. However, the beauty of the roofs are affected since the solar panels spoil the outlook of the roofs. An average septic tank installation cost around $5,170(Sortfix,2016). The septic tanks have to be placed at suitable locations. Environmental impacts such as odour and gas emissions as well as groundwater pollution may occur if placed at unsuitable conditions. Therefore, the students will really have to research and place the septic tank at proper locations. If not, they would cause more damage than benefits to the environment (Wikipedia, 2016).
Although this project aims to benefit the community in Detroit, it might pose a few social problems. For example, once the house is already built and given to the needy, those who did not get the house may want to take it away for self-interest purposes. Due to the high crime rate and poverty in Detroit, I would suggest more police presence around the area to make the area safer.
On the other hand, the Detroit residents’ mindsets are positive. They could accomplish a lot of things by having a positive and optimistic mind. With the never give up attitude and being handy in their skills, they can assist in the project by coaching and teaching other people. Ultimately, the most important factor in ensuring this project becomes successful is to help out in terms of financial issues. This project could come a long way in increasing awareness to other countries about sustainability and reducing environmental impacts.
References
CBS Detroit.(2013, 23 September) New Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available .
Retrieved from http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/
Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks (2016, 07 September).
Low Cost Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, MI (2016).
Retrieved from http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php
Retrieved from http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php
Michael D. Shaw. (2006, 18 September) What A Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems.
Retrieved from https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/
Retrieved from https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/
Peters, A. (2016, July 7). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas.
Retrieved from https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s