Green Urban Living

In Green Urban Living, Janet Luke expertly guides readers toward a more sustainable lifestyle, even in the confines of an urban setting. As modern life becomes increasingly fast-paced and urban spaces reduce, Green Urban Living provides a beacon of hope for those wishing to grow their own food and embrace sustainable practices. Luke introduces the concept she names "Gurbing"—Green Urban Living—a method that harmonises with nature to establish a productive garden, regardless of space limitations.

The book's approach is refreshingly flexible, with no rigid guidelines, acknowledging that sustainable living can be as simple as nurturing a worm farm on a balcony or cultivating herbs in pots. It channels the ingenuity of traditional Kiwi backyards while integrating contemporary principles like recycling, organic gardening, and efficient water use. Luke demonstrates that even city dwellers can maintain chickens and bees, providing valuable insights into urban agriculture.

One of the book’s key tenets is the advocacy for re-using low-cost materials. Rather than encouraging readers to head to stores for new products, Luke inspires innovative use of existing resources, thereby reducing waste and expenditure. Green Urban Living is filled with top tips, practical advice from green community forums, and a plethora of original, easy-to-follow ideas that cater to both novice and experienced gardeners.

Readers will find a variety of step-by-step projects, each clearly explained and illustrated. These range from simple tasks like planting a tree to more complex endeavours such as constructing a chicken tractor. The book also covers imaginative projects like creating seed bombs for guerrilla gardening, building a "bug Hilton" hotel to attract beneficial insects, and making edible flower arrangements for children. Luke's approachable narrative and enthusiasm make for a compelling and informative read, helping to transform urban residential spaces into sustainable, eco-friendly havens.

Green Urban Living is not just a guide; it is a call to action for urban inhabitants to reconnect with nature, embrace sustainability, and create beautiful, bountiful green spaces in their everyday lives.