Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico: demolished homes, food and water shortages, and a decimated power grid characterized daily life for months. While millions of people began the process of rebuilding what previously existed, a couple in Puerto Rico took an unconventional approach and decided to build an Earthship. Developed 50 years ago, Earthships are sustainable structures made out of recycled and natural materials, including old tires, packed dirt, and soda cans. Hundreds of volunteers are now working to build the island’s first Earthship, which consists of five interconnected geodesic domes and an edible garden and will serve as both an education center and an outpost for relief supplies in the event of another disaster.
Climate Protection: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
Energy & Mobility: Saves energy through use of recycled materials
Resilience: Decreases destruction & speeds up recovery
Food & Water: Protects resources during and after natural disasters
Jobs & Assets: Creates teaching and management jobs
Health, Well-Being, & Safety: Offers shelter during extreme weather events
Connection: Educates community on sustainable infrastructure.
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