A sneak peek into future homes
By Xan Jordan
Finding ways for homes to be more sustainable and efficient is important. Earth ships are an example of sustainable homes. These homes are mostly found in Arizona and are inspired by Michael Reynolds, an American architect. Earth Ships incorporate many important ideas in sustainable housing. Recycled materials, plants, and green energy are all important aspects of construction. These homes produce a small amount of food, regulate their temperatures, create their own energy, and recycle their own water. Because of this, Earthships could be the future of sustainable housing.
One of the benefits of Earthships is their efficiency. The house itself is constructed to retain hot and cold- keeping warm in the winter, and cool in the summer. This means that along with being powered by solar panels and wind energy, the need for excessive energy towards heating and cooling is needed, thus saving capital and energy. In addition, the use of solar energy and wind energy makes it self-sustaining and green as well, powering the rest of the home.
In addition to self-sustaining energy, the homes are further made greener by their use of recycled materials. Tires, which are a huge part of landfills are made to use by their function in the foundation of the building. Recycled cans and bottles further strengthen the walls and interior of the home. The home is also structured to collect rainwater, filter it through the house plats and garden, and deliver it through the plumbing throughout the house and recycle it from there. The long term efficiency and actual cost can make them affordable. The houses themselves have many benefits: sustainability, cost, and efficiency make them very desirable.
Despite the many benefits of Earthships, there are some negative aspects. For example in some locations, these houses are not achievable in very dry areas, rough areas, or unstable areas. Thus this may not be an option for everyone. Another problem is that tires can degrade over time, which could cause issues with the foundation and concrete is also not very good for the environment. However, many of these issues can be avoided with a change in plans, and the benefits often outweigh the cons, especially in the aspect of the long term.
Earthpods could be an amazing way to have more sustainable houses and efficiency are a start to a great future for people in America. These homes could allow an important step in a greener America.
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