The design of the Eco-Machine is a fusion of technological and ecological knowledge made up of components that mimic the genius of evolution such as self-repair, replication, nutrient cycling, and food chains (Todd and Todd, 1994).
     Living Technology projects have been licensed and are being used in ten states and in Canada to restore polluted lakes, wetlands, and rivers; to purify human, industrial, and dairy wastes; and as an educational tool to demonstrate the functions of ecosystems in schools and museums. Data shows that Eco-Machines successfully reduce biological and chemical oxygen demand, suspend solids, coliform bacteria, and even sequester metals — all without the use of sterilization chemicals.
     Additionally, Eco-Machines are environmentally and economically advantageous over conventional wastewater treatment plants. They cost less to maintain, produce safe products that can be sold, and use ecology to transform what we previously termed “waste” into valuable materials. This connection to our resources promotes a vital connection between human development and environmental sustainability.