Earthships Use Recycled Materials to Foster Cozy Off-Grid Living
Imagine living in a spaceship without ever leaving the ground. Although some “earthship” structures definitely have an otherworldly vibe to them, there’s nothing extraterrestrial about their design. In fact, the entire point of them is to be as conservative as possible with the resources they take from planet Earth.
There are a few trademark characteristics that classify earthship buildings, including their ability to effectively heat and cool themselves without using energy, systems for collecting and recycling rainwater, and their reliance on solar power for the energy they do use. Another commonality among earthships is the use of recycled and natural materials in their construction processes. When combined, these features add up to ultra low-energy, eco-friendly, off-grid living.
Image courtesy of Atlas Obscura
All earthships are designed to accommodate adequate light and airflow through their interiors. This is achieved using strategically-placed glass windows, which also create a greenhouse effect that’s perfect for indoor gardening. And since sustainability is such a major goal of the earthship community, it seems like the ability to grow fresh food from greenhouse to table only makes for another welcome element.
Water conservation is also at the forefront of earthship design, beginning with rain and snowmelt collection from the roof. The water here is stored and pumped inside for use in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens...
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