Disagreement on Iraq does not hinder work toward sustainability.

Guy Holt, an environmental and sustainability consultant just returned from a meeting of the International Energy Agencies (IEA) 28th Task Force on sustainable lifestyle homes in Prague, Czeck Republic. Mr. Holt, is a US observer and participant in this international task force that seeks to build and market affordable and sustainable housing. Mr. Holt said, Because of the many different opinions about the war in Iraq, I wasnt sure what kind of reaction the participants from other countries would have this time. Although many of the participants disagreed with US policy in Iraq, many other things were agreed upon during the 4 day meeting."

Mr. Holt collaborated and presented market strategies to bankers, developers and builders from 15 other countries including Germany, Japan and Canada about a new concept in housing called Sustainable Homes. Holt said, These sustainable homes and communities connect the homeowner to an improved lifestyle. Of course solar collectors can be a part of these homes and wind turbines can help power the community, but the main emphasis goes beyond the bricks and the sticks. This task force concentrates on strategies as well as methods to build houses and communities that connect the homeowner to beauty, learning, increased wellness and a profound sense of security"

Task 28 and Guy Holt are creating easy architectural solutions as well as marketing and communication solutions for the builder, the developer and the communities and towns where they live. Holt said, We are close to publishing the results of the work of over 35 participants for the last 3 years. Many developers and builders nation wide are showing special interest in the profit potentials from sustainable development".

Guy Holts work includes a 40 million dollar demonstration project located in Taos, New Mexico. This ecological resort hotel and spa (eco-resort) includes two housing projects that are located close to the project. The whole thing showcases sustainable technology and the Living System tm waste treatment facility which is at the heart of the project" said Holt. Kansas City also has a similar technology being demonstrated at the new Discovery Center in Kaughman Legacy Park on the Plaza which houses the Missouri Department of Natural Resources offices.

When asked about the views of people from other counties, Mr. Holt commented, There were several heated discussions and there is a lot of people worried about the actions of the US in Iraq. But we did manage to agree that there are other things just as important. Dependence on foreign oil and the freedom and security offered with sustainable technology was at the top of that list."

Guy Holt can be contacted at guyholt@coldwellbanker.com.