Climate Week NYC — kind of a precursor to December's climate treaty in Copenhagen — is a big deal. In the event that you've been busy reading about it (and reading faux issues of the NY Post) and missed developments in the world of green homes, here's your second chance.

 

As always, there's lots to report, particularly in terms of sustainable building. Check out the links below to read more about homes made from dirt, energy-efficient homes designed by students, modular homes built in eco-factories, and much more. 

 

Fast Company comes bearing news that net-zero prefab firm ZETA Communities has set up shop in "z-Fab," a 91,000-square foot production facility in Oakland, California. It's expected that the facility will pump out around 300 modular units annually. Congrats! 

The Los Angeles Times checks in with Susan Carpenter, "the Realist Idealist," as she transforms her front and backyards into edible gardens. The biggest obstacle? Dealing with soil that's been polluted with high levels on zinc and lead. 

Time tackles a fascinating, relevant topic: the creative, often altruistic repurposing of McMansions.  

TreeHugger chats with Abe and Josie, a resourceful young couple who live an off the grid, mortgage-free life in the Texas desert. That's them pictured below.

Jetson Green announces the opening of Metro Green, an affordable apartment complex in Stamford, Connecticut, that's seeking LEED Gold certification. 

Re-Nest takes a tour of the Curio House, Boston's entry in the Department of Energy-run Solar Decathlon. The 800-square foot green home was designed by students from Boston Architectural College and Tufts University. 

Natural Home reports that the EPA has proposed new lead dust testing requirements in renovated homes built before 1978. Dust from lead paint that's generated during home renovations can expose young children to lead poisoning. 

Dornob visits the Gates Co-op Houseboat Community, a village of vintage floating abodes in Sausalito, California.