What would you do if your energy and water supplies were turned off from the mains? How would you survive if your bins were locked, your vehicles clamped and, without warning, your family was forced to live for 24hours in an eco shutdown'?
On Eco House Challenge two suburban, Australian families are about to find out what it takes to help save the planet. Over several weeks, while still living their normal lives, the families must radically reduce consumption in four eco hot-spots, Energy Water, Transport and Waste, or face the consequences we all face.
The challenge starts with a bang. No energy, no water, no vehicles and no waste removal. After twenty-four hours one eco hotspot will be returned and a consumption level will be set based on what scientists say will help save the planet. Once that level is maintained another hotspot will be returned. The families will not get their lives back until they drastically reduce their consumption, have all the hotspots balanced and learn to live sustainably. This could takes weeks...
For the Edwards family; a large, frugal family led by logistically minded ex-commando Spike and no nonsense working Mum, Mary, it's going to be tough. With seven in the family, including their elderly grandmother, Nonna, consumption is high.
For the Shepherd family; an affluent family who love the good life, going without is not going to be easy. Headed up by financially obsessed businessman, Cam and sharp witted domestic workhorse, Shauna, this family of six are consumer addicts.
Monitoring their every eco move is Glenn, The Guy in Charge of Challenge. Ready to penalize the families when they exceed their target levels and reward the families when they pass, his unexpected arrivals at the homes are sure to bring apprehensive news.
But help is at hand. The families' Eco Coach is modern day greenie and scientific number cruncher, Tanya Ha. Together they have just weeks to do what we all must do in just a few decades. But if they can pass the Eco House Challenge and help save the planet...so can we.

Special Features:
A look at Eco Friendly products
Tanya's Tips
Shauna Shepherd's star signs come true
A little quiet time with Spike Edwards