Living Machine

Resembling something like a tropical forest, John Todd’s attractive solution to waste-water management uses plants to clean up water. Consisting of a series of ecosystems that work together to break down water contaminants, Todd’s approach offers a natural and eco-friendly alternative to costly traditional water treatment plants. The concept was recently awarded a Buckminster Fuller Award for its elegant application in cleaning up Appalachia’s water supply, and has been adopted and adapted by many eco-minded individuals around the country. +