Already in the 70ies, Michael Reynolds has invented the so-called “Earthships”, but it took until now for the world to be ready for his innovative vision. The basic idea has been to build a completely self-sufficient house without water-, power- or canalisation connection from the beginning. Moreover, it should consist of waste or recycled materials like cans, glass bottles or car tyres. A sophisticated system accumulates and filters rainwater which can be reused in several iterations: first as drinking water, next for watering the plants and last as toilet water. The thick cob walls provide for a constant room temperature throughout the whole year, so that neither heating nor air conditioning are necessary. The glass front on the southern side allows to lay out a winter garden with own fruits and vegetables. Power can be generated with the in-house photovoltaic system. The Earthships are real miracles which you can even build yourself, by the way. Or you just occupy one for testing purposes during your summer vacation.
For everyone who does not only want to live sustainably, but also mobile and independently, the “Tiny Houses” are a great option! The miniature flats are mostly built of wood on a car trailer and scarcely measure more than fifteen square metres so that they are legitimate in the road traffic. That is not really big but often, it can be very delightful to focus on the essentials and thereby reduce one’s ecological footprint. Aside from that, this way of living is also perfectly suitable for people with a lower budget. However, in legal regard, there can arise some difficulties. Hence, you should get informed at the responsible authorities like the municipal administration or the MOT what is actually allowed before you start to erect your Tiny House. Yet, this hurdle is worth overcoming when you keep in mind that you will be rewarded with personal freedom and a green conscience.
If building your own Earthship or Tiny House seems too strenuous to you, but you need a change of scenery nonetheless and would like to reside sustainably, then visit our Green Bio-Hotel zur Post. We look forward to welcoming you!