Is Earthship Homes the Solution We've Been Seeking?
In the heart of New Mexico's high desert landscape, a unique community thrives. For over three decades, a group of sustainably-focused individuals have been living off-the-grid in Earth-sheltered homes, known as Earthships.
Nestled into the Earth, these dwellings serve as a testament to the residents' commitment to living in harmony with nature. Yven, a long-term resident, feels a profound connection to the Earth's ecosystem, stating that living in an Earthship makes him feel closer to nature and more efficient with resources.
Technological advances have played a significant role in making off-the-grid life easier. LED lighting and fixtures, for instance, have become commonplace, providing residents with modern comforts while minimising energy consumption.
The desert mesa community of Earthship residents, a diverse group united by a shared sustainability ethos and Earthship architecture rules, serves as a symbol of belonging. Rita Colleen, initially sceptical about off-the-grid lifestyles due to misconceptions, was won over after visiting an Earthship community. In March 2020, she and her family purchased an older one-bedroom Earthship model from 1999.
Earthships address six fundamental needs: heating and cooling, solar and electricity, water harvesting, contained sewage treatment, building with natural and recycled materials, and food production. These dwellings capture rainwater, produce energy, and foster indoor plants with runoff water. Residents are keen on sharing details about their homes' energy efficiency, battery capabilities, and water harvesting capacities.
The global survey found that 60% of consumers expressed an interest in creating more sustainable choices following the Covid-19 pandemic. This shift towards sustainability is reflected in the growing number of Earthships sprouting up in various locations, from Asia to the Caribbean.
The roots of this movement can be traced back to the 1970s, when architect Michael Reynolds founded Earthship Biotecture. Reynolds, with an unfaltering commitment to sustainability, has been instrumental in popularising Earthships as a viable and desirable alternative to traditional housing.
Residents like Yven and the Colleens attest to the benefits of living off-the-grid. Yven moved into an Earthship in 2004 to show his children the effects of individual actions on climate change. He experiences low costs in running his home, with annual bills totaling around $800 for propane and occasional water fill-ups.
For the Colleens, the move to an Earthship was marked by the low cost of running their new home compared to traditional housing. They secured their Earthship vessel after following news regarding Earthship listings from their home in Wyoming.
Yann Yven, a resident of an Earthship, emphasises that living off-the-grid doesn't necessarily mean living in an Earthship. However, for those who choose to make the leap, the rewards—both for the environment and for personal wallets—are undeniable.
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