Earthships In Taos, New Mexico: Sustainable Living

by Alex Braham 51 views

Hey guys! Have you ever heard of Earthships? If you're into sustainable living and unique architectural designs, then you absolutely need to check out the Earthships in Taos, New Mexico. These off-grid homes are not just dwellings; they're a statement about living in harmony with our planet. Let's dive into what makes Earthships so special and why Taos is the perfect place to find them.

What are Earthships?

Earthships are autonomous, sustainable homes designed to function completely off the grid. They were conceived and developed by architect Michael Reynolds and his team at Earthship Biotecture. The core philosophy behind Earthships is to utilize recycled materials, natural resources, and renewable energy sources to create homes that minimize environmental impact and maximize self-sufficiency. Imagine a house that heats and cools itself, generates its own electricity, collects its own water, and even treats its own waste! That's the magic of an Earthship.

The basic design of an Earthship incorporates several key elements:

  1. Tires: Used car tires are a primary building material, packed with earth to create dense, thermal mass walls. These walls act as heat batteries, absorbing and storing solar energy during the day and releasing it at night, helping to regulate indoor temperatures year-round.
  2. Earth Berming: Earthships are typically built into the earth, or bermed, on three sides. This further insulates the structure and provides additional thermal stability. The earth acts as a natural buffer against temperature fluctuations, keeping the interior cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
  3. Water Harvesting: Earthships collect rainwater and snowmelt from the roof and store it in cisterns. This water is then filtered and used for drinking, bathing, and other household needs. A greywater system recycles water from sinks and showers to irrigate indoor and outdoor plants.
  4. Solar and Wind Power: Earthships generate their own electricity using photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines. The electricity is stored in batteries for use when the sun isn't shining or the wind isn't blowing. This ensures a constant and reliable power supply, completely independent of the grid.
  5. Waste Management: Earthships have integrated wastewater treatment systems. Blackwater (toilet waste) is treated in a contained septic system, while greywater (water from sinks and showers) is filtered and used to irrigate indoor planters, which help to purify the water further. These planters not only clean the water but also provide a source of fresh produce.
  6. Passive Heating and Cooling: The design of Earthships maximizes passive solar heating and cooling. Large, south-facing windows allow sunlight to enter the building during the winter, warming the thermal mass walls. Overhangs and angled windows prevent excessive heat gain during the summer. Natural ventilation is also used to cool the building.

Earthships are more than just buildings; they are living ecosystems that provide their inhabitants with shelter, water, energy, and food. They represent a radical departure from conventional construction practices and offer a glimpse into a more sustainable future. By using recycled materials and renewable resources, Earthships minimize their environmental impact and demonstrate that it is possible to live comfortably and responsibly on our planet.

Why Taos, New Mexico?

So, why are there so many Earthships in Taos, New Mexico? Well, Taos has proven to be the ideal location for these sustainable homes for a number of reasons. The high desert climate of Taos provides ample sunshine, which is perfect for solar power. The area also has a strong community of environmentally conscious individuals who are drawn to the concept of off-grid living. Plus, the relatively lax building codes in Taos have made it easier for Earthship Biotecture to experiment and innovate with their designs.

Here’s a closer look at why Taos is such a hotspot for Earthships:

  1. Climate: Taos boasts a high desert climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. This abundant sunshine is crucial for powering the solar panels that provide electricity for Earthships. The clear skies and dry air also enhance the performance of solar thermal systems, which can be used for heating water and space.
  2. Land Availability and Cost: Compared to many other parts of the United States, land in Taos is relatively affordable. This makes it easier for people to purchase larger parcels of land, which are often needed for Earthship construction. The availability of land also allows for greater flexibility in the design and layout of Earthships.
  3. Community Support: Taos has a thriving community of artists, environmentalists, and alternative thinkers who are drawn to the concept of sustainable living. This supportive community provides a network of resources, knowledge, and encouragement for Earthship builders and residents. The community also hosts workshops, tours, and events that promote Earthship construction and sustainable living practices.
  4. Permissive Building Codes: While building codes are becoming stricter in many areas, Taos has historically had more permissive building codes, which allowed Earthship Biotecture to experiment and innovate with their designs. This flexibility has been crucial for the development and refinement of Earthship technology. However, it's important to note that building codes in Taos are evolving, and Earthship builders must now comply with stricter regulations.
  5. Earthship Biotecture Headquarters: Taos is home to the headquarters of Earthship Biotecture, the company founded by Michael Reynolds that designs and builds Earthships. This proximity provides access to expertise, training, and resources for those interested in building or living in an Earthship. Earthship Biotecture also offers workshops and internships that allow people to learn about Earthship construction and sustainable living practices.

The convergence of these factors has made Taos a hub for Earthship construction and a center for sustainable living. The Earthships in Taos are not just homes; they are living laboratories that demonstrate the potential for off-grid living and environmental stewardship. They attract visitors from around the world who are interested in learning about sustainable building practices and exploring alternative ways of life.

Visiting the Earthships

If you're planning a trip to New Mexico, you absolutely have to visit the Earthships. The Earthship Biotecture World Headquarters offers tours where you can explore these amazing homes and learn about their construction and operation. You can even rent an Earthship for a truly immersive experience. Imagine spending a night in a home that's completely self-sufficient – it's an eye-opening experience!

Here’s what you can expect when visiting the Earthships in Taos:

  1. Earthship Biotecture Visitor Center: Start your visit at the Earthship Biotecture Visitor Center, where you can learn about the history of Earthships, the principles of sustainable design, and the work of Michael Reynolds and his team. The visitor center offers exhibits, videos, and interactive displays that provide a comprehensive overview of Earthship technology.
  2. Guided Tours: Take a guided tour of the Greater World Earthship Community, where you can explore several different Earthship models and learn about their unique features and construction techniques. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer your questions and provide insights into the design and operation of Earthships.
  3. Overnight Stays: For a truly immersive experience, consider renting an Earthship for an overnight stay. Several Earthships in the Greater World Earthship Community are available for rent through Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms. This allows you to experience firsthand what it's like to live in a self-sufficient home and to appreciate the comfort and sustainability of Earthship living.
  4. Earthship Academy: If you're interested in learning more about Earthship construction, consider attending a workshop or course at the Earthship Academy. The academy offers hands-on training in Earthship building techniques, as well as courses on sustainable design, water harvesting, and renewable energy. This is a great opportunity to learn from experienced Earthship builders and to gain practical skills that you can use to build your own sustainable home.
  5. Volunteer Opportunities: If you're looking for a way to give back and learn about Earthship construction, consider volunteering with Earthship Biotecture. Volunteers assist with various tasks, such as building walls, installing systems, and maintaining the grounds. This is a great way to learn about Earthship construction and to contribute to the development of sustainable communities.

Visiting the Earthships in Taos is an unforgettable experience that will inspire you to think differently about the way we build and live. It's a chance to see firsthand the potential for sustainable living and to learn about the innovative technologies that are making it possible.

The Future of Earthships

The Earthship concept is more relevant than ever as we face increasing environmental challenges. These homes offer a practical and sustainable solution to many of the problems associated with conventional housing. With their ability to provide shelter, water, energy, and food, Earthships represent a step towards a more resilient and self-sufficient future.

Here are some of the ways that Earthships are shaping the future of sustainable living:

  1. Promoting Sustainable Building Practices: Earthships demonstrate that it is possible to build homes that are both environmentally friendly and comfortable. They showcase the use of recycled materials, renewable energy, and passive design principles, inspiring others to adopt more sustainable building practices.
  2. Addressing Housing Shortages: Earthships can be built relatively quickly and affordably, making them a potential solution to housing shortages in many parts of the world. Their self-sufficiency also makes them ideal for remote or off-grid locations where conventional infrastructure is lacking.
  3. Empowering Communities: Earthships can be built by local communities using locally available materials, creating jobs and empowering people to take control of their own housing. This participatory approach to building can foster a sense of community and ownership.
  4. Reducing Environmental Impact: Earthships significantly reduce the environmental impact of housing by using recycled materials, conserving water, and generating their own energy. This helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve natural resources, and protect ecosystems.
  5. Promoting Education and Awareness: Earthships serve as living classrooms that educate people about sustainable living practices. They attract visitors from around the world who are interested in learning about Earthship technology and the principles of sustainable design. This helps to raise awareness about environmental issues and to inspire people to take action.

The future of Earthships is bright. As more people become aware of the benefits of sustainable living, the demand for Earthships is likely to grow. With continued innovation and refinement, Earthships have the potential to transform the way we build and live, creating a more sustainable and resilient future for all.

So, if you're looking for a unique and inspiring travel destination, or if you're simply interested in learning more about sustainable living, be sure to check out the Earthships in Taos, New Mexico. You won't be disappointed!

Conclusion

Visiting the Earthships in Taos offers a unique glimpse into a sustainable and self-sufficient way of life. These innovative homes, built with recycled materials and designed to harness natural resources, showcase a commitment to environmental responsibility. Whether you're interested in architecture, sustainable living, or simply curious about alternative ways of living, the Earthships in Taos are well worth a visit. They represent a bold vision for the future of housing and a testament to the power of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. So next time you're planning a trip, consider making a stop in Taos and experiencing the magic of Earthships for yourself!