Аннотация

With frequent warnings about water and energy shortages, and the potential dangers of pesticides and genetically modified foods, many people nurture a dream of living a 'self-sufficient' lifestyle.With these people in mind, this comprehensive yet easy-to-read book examines what it truly takes to live off the fat of the land. Authors Alan and Gill Bridgewater, who themselves recently moved to a smallholding, answer all the fundamental questions that anyone considering a similar lifestyle shift might ask; from the best way to warm your home off the grid to the time and effort that go into growing your own food and raising your own animals. The book even goes so far as to describe quirkier aspects of the lifestyle, with detailed descriptions of how to make soap and candles. Both the most fulfilling aspects and the hard graft of self-sufficient living are revealed in full.Packed with informative illustrations and diagrams, and a wealth of useful advice, «The Self-Sufficiency Specialist» is the perfect guide for prospective 21st-century smallholders.

Аннотация

From the decorative to the practical, Brickwork Projects for Patio & Garden offers a range of projects for all levels of expertise. Sixteen original projects range from a simple garden wall to a beautiful raised herringbone patio. Each project has been photographed step-by-step during construction and the finished piece is shown in its garden setting. Clear construction diagrams and concise text accompany every project. A comprehensive techniques section provides expert advice and information on designing, planning, tools, materials, foundations, concrete, mortar and cutting and laying brick. This attractive and accessible DIY book is full of ideas for creating practical garden features using this simple and traditional material.

Аннотация

Worried about ever-rising fuel bills and longing for the day when you can be off-grid and independent? Anxious about the quality of the food you eat and planning to go organic? Yearning to get back to the way it was but don't know where to start? This book will show you how to achieve the eco-friendly good life. The authors cover the ecological gamut from geothermal heating to crop rotation to soap making. They answer important questions like how much land is really needed to be self-sufficient, whether or not to depend entirely on natural forms of energy, and which farm animals will best meet your needs. There’s practical information here on building an insulated flue pipe chimney, identifying edible wild plants, and composting with worms—as well as recipes for jams, rhubarb wine, cheeses, and more. Packed with full-color photographs, helpful illustrations, and diagrams, Self-Sufficiency Handbook will appeal to urban dwellers who want to adopt certain aspects of greener living and to serious adherents of back-to-basics living.


Inside Self-Sufficiency Handbook


Inspirational yet practical introduction to a greener way of living.


Essential reading for anyone considering a shift to a more self-sufficient lifestyle, no matter how small the change.


Emphasis is on the positive aspects of self-sufficiency, such as cutting living costs and eating well.


Covers everything from fitting a wind turbine to making honey from your own beehives.


Step-by-step instructions on keeping animals, growing organic food, and preserving your own produce.


Guidelines for creating a self-sufficient home and eco-friendly home improvements.


""This book shows that self-sufficiency is not only better for the planet – it's cheaper and more rewarding!"«—Green Rewards/Sustainability Advisory Panel»