This summer’s extreme heat and the increased demand for air conditioning have strained electricity grids across the nation. For more than 40 years, pioneering architect Michael Reynolds in New Mexico has been offering a unique solution: Earthships, homes that can be heated and cooled without using any electricity at all. Let’s explore a recent PBS NewsHour segment about this topic.
Off-Grid Living
Empty-nesters Jess and Brian Johnson left Colorado for Taos, New Mexico, where their dollar could go further. Their two-bedroom, two-bathroom, 2,000-square-foot home is an Earthship, meaning it’s off the grid, relying on solar power and rainwater collection. Despite the unconventional setup, they maintain modern conveniences without paying utility bills.
Concept of Earthships
Michael Reynolds, who has been developing Earthships since the early 1970s, was initially driven by the growing garbage problem in the U.S. His model home uses recycled materials like aluminum cans and old tires, creating self-sustaining structures that meet six human needs: comfortable shelter without fossil fuels, electricity, water, food, waste treatment, and garbage treatment. I believe it is clear to see why his innovative designs have gained attention and respect worldwide.
Building Techniques
The walls of Earthships are made from old tires filled with dirt, creating an insulating structure similar to a cave that maintains a stable temperature year-round. The Johnsons’ home, for example, stays between 70 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit regardless of external temperatures. I really liked how Reynolds’ designs showcase that sustainable building can be practical and aesthetically pleasing, blending functionality with creativity.
Energy Efficiency
Earthships are heated by sunlight and cooled by a system of tubes and vents that circulate air. The Johnsons’ home uses 14 solar panels for electricity, with careful management of their energy usage to avoid draining the batteries. I found it interesting how the design promotes energy efficiency without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Water Conservation
The Earthship’s water system captures rain and snow, storing it in cisterns. This water is used multiple times – first for drinking and washing, then to water plants in the indoor greenhouse, and finally to flush toilets and irrigate outdoor gardens. This innovative water recycling system underscores the Earthship’s commitment to sustainability.
Cost and Accessibility
While Earthships can be expensive – costing up to $1.7 million for larger models—they offer long-term savings on utilities. The Johnsons estimate they save around $500 a month compared to their previous home in Colorado. However, the high initial investment and labor-intensive building process pose challenges for widespread adoption.
Inspirational Impact
Despite these challenges, Reynolds’ Earthships have inspired a generation of green homebuilders. Techniques like self-sustaining power, solar panels, and water reuse have become more mainstream, highlighting the growing importance of sustainable building practices.
Rethinking Traditional Homes
The Johnsons believe that rethinking traditional home construction is crucial. They see their Earthship as part of a broader movement towards sustainable living. This shift in perspective can lead to more eco-friendly building practices that benefit both homeowners and the environment.
Joining the Movement
Brian and Jess Johnson feel proud to be part of the Earthship community, contributing to a more sustainable future. Their experience shows that while the journey to off-grid living might be challenging, it is also deeply rewarding and environmentally responsible.
Biggest Barriers
What do you think? How can more people be encouraged to adopt sustainable building practices like those used in Earthships? What are the biggest barriers to widespread adoption of Earthship-style homes, and how can they be overcome? How might local governments incentivize the construction of off-grid homes to alleviate pressure on public utilities?
Explore the full insights by viewing the video on PBS NewsHour’s YouTube channel here.
