Earthship Biotecture
Earthship Biotecture looks as surprising as it sounds. Even more intriguing than the unconventional exterior appearance of these buildings are the “ingredients” that make up their structure. Not dropped from space but rather indigenous to earth are the aluminum cans, tires, and glass bottles that serve as “bricks”. Earth rammed into the tires creates solid walls that aid in the thermal regulation of the interior. Glass bottles shine like jewels in backlit walls that allow the sunlight to enter the rooms in a kaleidoscope like fashion. The sound of trickling water fills the air in the buildings' indoor jungle that regulates indoor air quality, temperature, and filters grey water from the sewage treatment system that is contained within the building. Better yet, the greenhouse of a regular size single story building can produce enough food to sustain a family of four. The buildings are self-contained living and breathing cells that turn off the grid living aspirations into reality, even in harsh desert environments. Rain water is captured from the roof and recycled four times before it leaves the building to water outdoor plants while energy is produced through the buildings' own renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and geothermal systems.
Earthship Biotecture founding father, renegade Michael Reynolds, sacrificed his architecture license as a result of his trail blazing approach to build “for people” and “for the planet”. As he put it himself:
The way we’ve been living is over. And that means our rules and our regulations are over. Our rules and regulations are about things that aren’t pertinent any more – stick frame houses that you pump heat into, endless amounts of energy and water – wasteful methods of living. Those days are over due to climate change, population explosion and dwindling resources.
If you project them into the future we’ve got a problem.
This is not a moral issue, it’s not a spiritual issue, it’s not a political issue,
it is a logical issue.
(The Environment Show 2006 - 2007)
Curious to learn more? There is a plethora of videos to be found on YouTube. Here are two picks that introduce the concept and the philosophy behind Earthship Biotecture in more detail:
Earthship Biotecture has found an enthusiastic following in Seattle and surroundings. Groups from Bainbridge Island, Bellingham, and Vancouver BC are mobilizing collaboratively to bring this ground-breaking approach to sustainable living to the Pacific Northwest.
If you're ready to roll up your sleeves or have more questions, please contact Earthship Seattle.
