Smart Homes: 10 Must-See Documentaries on Future Sustainability

March 27, 2023

"Going off-grid is not a retreat from civilization, but a return to the wisdom of our ancestors who lived in harmony with the earth." - Masanobu Fukuoka

As climate change and environmental degradation continue to threaten our planet, the concept of living off-grid has gained popularity as a sustainable alternative to traditional lifestyles. From tiny homes and eco-villages to self-sustaining farms and renewable energy, there are various ways to live off the grid.

 A digital work of an architecture with a self-sustaining cotainer

Living off-grid can take many forms, from small-scale solutions like solar panels and rainwater collection to more complex systems like wind turbines and composting toilets. The goal is to create a sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle that is not dependent on outside resources.

By producing your own energy and managing your own waste, you are reducing your reliance on fossil fuels and reducing the amount of waste that goes into landfills.

 A futuristic glass pyramid

Sustentability also provide a sense of independence and freedom. By relying on your own resources, you are not subject to fluctuations in utility prices and can control your own energy consumption.

However, living off-grid also comes with its own set of challenges, such as initial setup costs, ongoing maintenance, and adapting to a different way of life. It requires a commitment to sustainability and a willingness to learn new skills and techniques.

If you're interested in learning more about this fascinating lifestyle and the people who have chosen to embrace it, here are the top documentaries you can't miss.

From Docudramas to Docuseries: The Best Off-Grid Documentaries

 

Off the Grid: Life on the Mesa

A man with a beard and sunglasses in an abandoned place

This documentary follows the lives of a group of outsiders who have chosen to live off the grid in a remote area of New Mexico. The film explores their struggles, challenges, and triumphs as they navigate a harsh and unpredictable environment and forge a unique sense of community.

 

Garbage Warrior 

A large property made of rubbish and rubbish

Michael Reynolds, an architect, and visionary who has dedicated his life to building sustainable, off-grid homes made from recycled materials. The film follows Reynolds as he battles against zoning laws and skeptical authorities to bring his radical designs to life.

 

Minimalism two well-dressed men in front of a snowy mountain range

This film examines the growing movement of minimalism and its impact on modern society. The film follows a diverse group of people who have chosen to simplify their lives and live with less, exploring the benefits and challenges of this lifestyle choice.

 

Day Zero 

Dry land and a superimposed drop of water

In Cape Town, South Africa, water scarcity has become a harsh reality, with scientists predicting that one in four cities worldwide will face similar crises by 2050. Day Zero is a looming threat, where the city will be forced to turn off its taps and ration water to citizens.

 

Felled

 A FELLED TREE TRUNK

As the world grapples with the effects of climate change and unsustainable practices, "Felled" shows that small actions can make a big difference. Through their dedication to salvaging materials and creating something beautiful, these woodworkers demonstrate that every person has the power to contribute to a more sustainable future.

 

The Biggest Little Farm

 AN AGRICULTURAL FIELD FROM A DRONE

This heartwarming documentary follows John and Molly Chester, a couple who leave the city behind to start a sustainable farm in the foothills of Southern California. The film captures their struggles, joys, and unexpected surprises as they work to build a thriving ecosystem and a new way of life.

 

The water law

Green grass

If you're looking for a documentary that will inform and entertain, "Water Law" is the perfect choice. It's a refreshing take on a pressing environmental issue, and a reminder of the power of legislation to shape the world around us.

In this eye-opening documentary, the relationship between Brazil's water crisis and the new Forest Code is explored, with a focus on the importance of forests for water conservation. But don't worry, it's not all dry facts and figures - the film injects a healthy dose of wit and humor into the serious topic.

 

Black Line

 A humble woman drags a trap to fish in a polluted river

In this captivating documentary by Mark Olexa, a single long tracking shot immerses us in the polluted waters of a dying river. Amidst the desolation, we meet a woman who fishes in the murky depths, refusing to let the river die.

But this is not just a story of environmental degradation - it's also a portrait of human resilience. The inhabitants of a nearby village refuse to let the river go without a fight, finding ways to survive and even thrive in the face of adversity.

 

Bringing The Sun Home

A little baby

Follows a group of determined women in El Salvador as they challenge the country's patriarchal norms and work towards a sustainable future by promoting solar energy in their communities.

 

Alone in the Wilderness 

 A lumberjack in front of the wooden house he built

This documentary follows the incredible story of Dick Proenneke, who in the 1960s, left civilization behind to live alone in the wilderness of Alaska. The film showcases his remarkable skills, ingenuity, and determination as he builds his own cabin and lives off the land in one of the most remote and challenging environments on Earth.

A futuristic construction that touches the heavens and another that is underground

Living off-grid is a lifestyle choice that offers a range of benefits for those seeking to reduce their environmental impact and become more self-sufficient. With the increasing availability of sustainable technologies and resources, it is becoming more accessible to a wider range of people.

These documentaries offer a compelling look at what it means to live off the grid. So, whether you're looking for inspiration, entertainment, or education, settle in for a fascinating journey into the world of sustainable living. With so many incredible documentaries to choose from, the only question is: which one will you watch first?

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