Non-Profit Organization since 2023
501 (c) (3)
Pro Nature City
Saving Planet, Lives, Energy and More
What is PLEM
PLEM™ stands for saving the Planet, Lives, Energy, and More.
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The Pro Nature City™ vision can be achieved through a simple yet transformative approach called PLEM™.
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Innovating Beyond Traditional Construction:
To construct buildings that can be seamlessly integrated with soil and vegetation, we must step beyond conventional methods and embrace innovative, out-of-the-box thinking.
Traditional construction build on a concrete foundations. PLEM™ utilizes a reinforced low-footprint concrete foundation that extends seamlessly into the exterior walls and a smooth, dome-shaped roof, forming a single, unified concrete shell.
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Once completed, reinforced low-footprint concrete shell is covered with soil and vegetation, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the natural environment while ensuring sustainability and structural integrity.
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The core principles of PLEM™ are as follows:
1. Monolithic Reinforced Concrete Shell
The first essential characteristic is that every structure must be enclosed within a monolithic reinforced concrete shell. This shell can be constructed using traditional methods or innovative technologies, such as 3D printing, as long as the outcome meets the required standards (e.g., Fox Blocks, SIPs Kit Homes, or 3D concrete pouring).​ The reinforced low-footprint concrete shell will align with the chosen layout, floor plan, and design of the structure it encloses, providing flexibility in architectural planning.
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2. Non-Flammable Materials Beyond the Shell
No wood or other combustible materials are permitted beyond the reinforced concrete shell. All exterior elements, such as window frames, doors, and garage doors, must be made of fire-resistant materials, such as metal or other non-flammable alternatives.
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3. Optimal Window Orientation for Sunlight
The placement and orientation of windows should align with seasonal sun patterns to optimize energy efficiency and indoor comfort. As per Griffith Observatory, “The tilt of Earth’s axis determines where the sun appears in the sky throughout the year. During summer in the northern hemisphere, the sun rises north of east and sets north of west.
It is high in the sky at noon. During winter in the northern hemisphere, sunrise and sunset appear farther south along the horizon.” :
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South-Facing Windows: Installing large windows on the south side to let in sunlight during winter for warmth while keeping the interior cool in summer.
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East & West-Facing Windows: Using these windows sparingly. Plant deciduous trees nearby to provide shade in summer and allow sunlight in winter.
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North-Facing Windows: Avoid them when possible, as they lack winter sunlight, making the home colder in winter and warmer in summer, both of which are uncomfortable.
PLEM Essentials
PLEM™ Benefits
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The PLEM™ approach offers transformative benefits, aligning with the Pro Nature City™ primary mission of saving Planet, Lives, Energy and More.
Saving Planet
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​​​​By adopting the PLEM™ approach, we can integrate natural elements into our buildings, replacing the vegetation removed during construction. From above, these structures blend seamlessly into their surroundings, appearing as part of nature itself. The reinforced concrete shell of PLEM™ structures supports this integration, offering strength and insulation while allowing us to restore both nature and city structures.
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​Saving Lives​​​
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​1. Earthquake Resistance
The solid, one-piece reinforced concrete shell of PLEM™ homes ensures the entire structure moves as a unified entity during earthquakes. This prevents joint separation and collapse, much like a car or RV shakes but remains intact.
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2. Wildfire Resistance
The concrete shell, combined with metal-framed windows, doors, and garage doors, creates a fireproof exterior, ensuring the safety of residents and interiors. By eliminating flammable materials beyond the shell, PLEM™ homes minimize the risk of fire spreading inside during wildfire events.
3. Resistance to Strong Storms and Tornadoes
Tornadoes and storms frequently cause severe roof damage. The unified reinforced concrete shell of PLEM™ homes resists these forces, providing complete protection. For added security, retractable metal sheets can be installed to cover windows and door openings during such events.
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Saving Energy
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​1. Superior Insulation
The combination of concrete walls, roof, and a soil-and-vegetation cover provides excellent thermal insulation. This natural layer maintains consistent indoor temperatures, leveraging the stable temperature characteristics of the Earth.
2. Strategic Window Placement
PLEM™ homes harness these sun patterns to warm interiors in winter and minimize heat gain in summer.
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Saving More​
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​1. Lower Energy Bills
Eliminating or reducing the need for heating and cooling systems due to superior insulation and strategic window placement.
2. Reduced Insurance Costs
Enhanced protection from natural disasters like earthquakes, wildfires, and tornadoes leads to lower insurance premiums.
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3. Maintenance-Free Exteriors
The concrete shell eliminates the need for exterior wall repairs, repainting, and insulation upkeep.
​4. Roof and Gutter Savings
​Roof maintenance, gutter cleaning, and replacements are eliminated.
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5. Pest Protection
The secure concrete structure reduces the need for pest control services.
6. Minimal Landscaping Costs
​Choosing natural, native vegetation for coverage can help reduce landscaping expenses.
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