In the cycle of nature the elements water, air, earth and fire are linked. This principle is part of traditional knowledge and should be maintained when restoring the landscape and planning the territory and the self-sustainable city. The lack of resources is the result of destruction and waste. Enormous quantities of rainwater are not collected, and valuable drinking water is used for personal hygiene. The sun's energy has always been present in tradition and today, with modern photovoltaic techniques, it could solve the energy problems of a whole nation. The mountains of refuse and the quantities of water used, which are a problem today, could become a resource. With innovative techniques, suited to the environment and to local society, it is possible to implement programmes for obtaining water from the atmosphere, energy from the sun, soil and fertilisers from recycling: a harmonious human development that is compatible with culture and nature.