Freshwater available for human use constitutes only a tiny fraction of the Earth's water supply. It is continuously moved in the solar-powered hydrologic cycle that allows for its re-use -- as long as humans do not overload it with nondegradable wastes or withdraw it from underground supplies faster than it is replenished.

Modern buildings are characterized by one way flows of matter.  Clean water and stored energy in the form of food enter buildings. Solid and liquid wastes leave and require treatment in order to prevent harm to downstream ecosystems.  The AJLC was designed to mimic the closed cycles of natural ecosystems through restoration of native aquatic ecosystems (wetland pond) and onsite wastewater treatment and re-use.

The Living Machine is an ecologically engineered system that combines elements of conventional wastewater technology with the purification processes of wetland ecosystems to treat and recycle the building's wastewater.  The system is designed to remove organic wastes, nutrients, and pathogens, which can damage human and environmental health if discharged. Water cleaned by the Living Machine is reused in the building's toilets and landscape.  The Living Machine also serves as a valuable research laboratory and educational tool for students and faculty.  A team of student operators maintain and monitor the living machine. Countless research projects and course lessons focus on gaining insight to the complex biological processes of this system.

Next: Flow Trends