Sustainable Shelter: Dwelling Within the Forces of Nature March 22, 2011

'Sustainable Shelter' explores innovative home building technologies and strategies that can help restore the health and viability of natural systems. Through graphics, interactive computer games, model homes and mock shelters, visitors can explore how ordinary activities - from reading a book to drying clothes - impact the planet's carbon and water cycles. The exhibit also compares and contrasts human dwellings with those of other animals, offers a cross-cultural look at human dwellings from around the world, and looks at the changes in building methods and consumption patterns of U.S. houses over the past 150 years. Visitors will also get the chance to try out ways to make their homes more energy efficient and environmentally sustainable with hands-on exhibits.