The blueprint is the result of AIA architects and members working together with civic and business leaders, policy makers and active, concerned citizens. During two 24-hour (hey, it's Nevada baby) town hall meetings held last year in Reno and Las Vegas, several groups formed around key issues to brainstorm and share ideas about improving our communities and our state. The gatherings resulted in a series of presentations to community leaders, which were then translated into the "Blueprint for Nevada" book.

At the conclusion of the first presentation in Las Vegas, Mayor Oscar Goodman said the session was "The best two hours I've spent in the whole eight years I've been in office." That's not a bad endorsement coming from the happiest mayor in the universe.

Participants in the town hall meetings were encouraged to think out of the box. The interchange of ideas and sharing of knowledge was extraordinary, resulting in a sense of community-building at its best.

"Blueprint for Nevada" consists of many diverse ideas and opinions, all intended to point to a better future. Many of the ideas are already being incorporated by local governments and other agencies.

I think it is a good idea for each of us to read this document. Whether your interest is in the arts and culture, transportation or water, education or energy, there is something for everyone. It may provide you with a fresh outlook on Nevada's potential and spark an interest that causes you to become even more involved in your community. You might decide to write to your local paper, meet with an elected official or volunteer some of your time. It's all about learning, sharing and taking action.

When it comes to taking action, there are plenty of specific things we can do. The blueprint covers a lot of ground but here are just a few ideas on energy and water efficiency around the house:

* We should be using compact fluorescent lamps instead of the old incandescent ones. These new lamps save lots of energy and will save you lots of money over their lifetime.

* Many homes simply waste energy and can be improved. For example, adding extra insulation in the attic can make a large dent in those energy bills. For best results, consider a home-energy audit by an expert who can show you where to get the most bang for your buck.

* Landscapes that use more native plants can greatly reduce watering needs.

* Pool covers can dramatically reduce water loss due to evaporation, keep water warmer and reduce chemical use.

As homeowners, we can take a look at our consumptive habits, take ownership of our responsibilities as stewards of the Earth and become a part of the solution. The AIA is doing just that. Its national Web site contains a "Sustainable Architectural Practice Position Statement," which starts with this paragraph:

"The AIA recognizes a growing body of evidence that demonstrates current planning, design, construction and real estate practices contribute to patterns of resource consumption that seriously jeopardize the future of the Earth's population. Architects need to accept responsibility for their role in creating the built environment and, consequently, believe we must alter our profession's actions and encourage our clients and the entire design and construction industry to join with us to change the course of the planet's future."

In creating the Blueprint for Nevada meetings, presentations, book and an ongoing task force, the AIA chapters in Nevada have shown their leadership and commitment to standing behind that statement. They deserve our appreciation and support.

Efforts like this, repeated in communities across the globe, help transform society and our environment. Acting locally creates results that have global impact. If there was ever a time to be engaged, to speak up, to learn about our world and to take action, this is it. Architects create blueprints that others can follow, turning vision into reality. Think of it as a sort of road map that leads to a specific destination. Let the "Blueprint for Nevada" be our road map to a sustainable future. It is the only future that really matters ... and after all, we are its architects.

Steve Rypka is a green living consultant and president of GreenDream Enterprises, specializing in renewable energy, green building, alternative transportation and lifestyle choices for both residential and commercial clients. The company is committed to helping people live lighter on the planet. Rypka can be reached via e-mail at steve@greendream.biz. More information relating to this column is posted at www.greendream.biz.