Innovative News

20 June 2008

Calling all Earthships

Posted by Cecilia under: Energy; Environment .

What started as a one man mission to save us from our own garbage has grown to become a global phenomenon. Michael Reynolds, architect, creator and builder of so-called “Earthships” started with the simple concept that modern architecture wasn’t fulfilling the needs of a society on a collision course with scarcity.

His idea of “biotecture”, defined as ”the profession of designing buildings and environments with consideration for their sustainability” is spreading around the world as quickly as the old tires he uses are filling the landfills. There are now Earthship projects, or communities in at least four European countries, including France, Ireland, and the U.K. And the interest is growing.

Started in Taos, New Mexico, EarthShip construction is defined by a passive solar home made of natural and recycled materials. The structure must contain thermal mass for temperature stabilization. Finally, renewable energy & integrated water systems complete the Earthship design as an off-grid home with little to no utility bills.

Reynold’s company, Earthship Biotecture offers sustainable designs, construction drawings & details, products, educational materials, lectures, consultation & guidance toward getting people in sustainable housing. The company is available for consultation from a single home to an entire community.

The houses exterior, comprised mainly of recycled automobile tires and glass bottles may be a bit of an acquired taste, but the results are remarkable nonetheless. A properly constructed Earthship promises it’s owner true off-the-grid living. If you want to sample Earthship living, the company can also arrange for you to stay in one of the houses overnight!

If you’re considering constructing a sustainable structure, consider building yourself an Earthship