Scott Kellogg

We will need to abolish the state and capitalism in order to live sustainably (and for some people, just to live). And collective liberation should be foregrounded at every step, as opposed to Liberal individual action, as it creates an population that doesn't need governance.

That said, I'm looking forward to implementing some of the projects in this book, not because I want to be holier than thou and more "sustainable," but because I think I can harness the unharnessed energy around me show more (wind, sunshine, water that comes from the sky) to reduce my bills and to reduce my reliance on "the grid." I plan on sharing whatever I learn with anyone who'll listen.

Dual-Power? Non-cooperation? I swear I won't be pompous about this book, or anything I implement from it. show less

Pretty good primer on a number of sustainable and alternative practices. Like others in this category, it gives you enough information to get you started but you'll probably need to dig into more complete references if you're tackling one of the bigger projects. The depth of the information provided here was a little inconsistent. Some project types get full treatment while others are passed over in a couple quick paragraphs. Those are pretty forgivable shortcomings, though, for a book that show more covers a lot of ground. The authors also inject an unapologetically political viewpoint into the book; their point being that sustainability cannot be effective if it is considered as agnostic pieces in isolation of a larger vision for rebuilding. I was fine with the tone and generally agree with their take, just be ready for that. show less

Kellogg and Pettigrew do an excellent job on several fronts. Not only do they make a good case for Urban Agriculture as a smart move, but they also describe in clear and simple language and pictures how one is to begin such activities. Lots of good source materials too. I may need to own this, and I'll definitely be re-reading the aquaculture section soon.

While this book has some really nifty projects, most are geared for the advanced sustainability guru with access to land. As I don't have a yard, don't have access to the plumbing to install greywater recycling, etc, this book is really not terribly useful for me. However, I could see it as a resource in the future if I ever own some land.

If you're interested in more small-scale sustainability projects that can be undertaken even in tiny, studio apartments, I strongly recommend reading Urban show more Homestead instead. show less