One Planet Communities

One Planet Communities is a global network of neighbourhoods designed to help people live well whilst using fewer natural resources. Created by the BioRegional Development Group (BDG), this project supports green housing in 13 countries, including the UK, USA, China, Brazil, and Tanzania. The goal is to make sustainable living affordable, enjoyable, and practical for everyone.
Each community is built by a developer or housing provider, with BDG offering expert advice. The homes and neighbourhoods follow BDG’s 10 One Planet Living principles, covering energy, waste, water, transport, food, materials, health, culture, equity, and biodiversity.
More than 38,000 homes have been designed using this model, with projects like BedZED in London and One Brighton already completed. Others are underway, such as Sonoma Mountain Village (USA), Jinshan (China), Masdar City (UAE), and Riverside One (UK).
These communities save energy and reduce carbon emissions through solar power, car sharing, local food, and efficient buildings. For example, Sonoma aims to cut transport emissions by 82% and water use by 65%. Recycled and local materials are often used, such as reclaimed steel at BedZED.
Homes are made available to people on a range of incomes, and community spaces encourage local events and strong social ties. Online tools, free training, and annual reviews help spread the approach worldwide.
Despite challenges—like funding and international coordination—One Planet Communities show how people can live within Earth’s limits without sacrificing comfort, health, or connection. With continued support, BDG hopes to reach one million people and inspire similar efforts globally.