Earthship: sustainable and self-sufficient construction

Innovative model that transforms waste into ecological and efficient housing

In the 1970s, American architect Michael Reynolds created the Earthship bio-construction concept, a model that has been refined ever since. The Earthship approach offers a viable alternative to traditional construction methods. The name itself reflects the idea of autonomy, inspired by the concept of a self-sufficient spaceship. However, Earthship goes beyond the name, representing an ideal based on sustainable and efficient construction and energy solutions. It transcends mere construction to become a true lifestyle, thanks to its characteristics and ecological transversality.

In Portugal, Earthship Experience and Earthship Biotecture Portugal, organisations that train and build Earthships, were founded by civil engineer Mário Roriz, who was responsible for introducing this concept to the country. This is not a recent concept, as it has been around for several decades. It represents an innovative and progressively recognised alternative, being a construction method with a significantly lower environmental impact than traditional reinforced concrete and brick masonry building. Earthship is based on a logic of sustained balance, providing a clear improvement in people's quality of life. Its design incorporates reused materials that would otherwise be discarded, such as tyres. It also makes use of renewable energies such as solar and wind power, promotes the cultivation of organic food, uses passive strategies for thermal regulation and avoids dependence on heavy machinery. The utilisation of rainwater for various purposes and the sustainable treatment of the waste generated are also fundamental pillars of this model. All this integrates harmoniously with the surroundings, establishing a natural dialogue between the building and the landscape through the adoption of green technologies and the practice of upcycling.

In Portugal, there are already several Earthships at different stages of development. Some are completed, others are still under construction and many more as yet came no further than the design or municipal analysis phase, one of the biggest challenges facing their implementation. The process of creating an Earthship in Portugal follows a similar path to any other architectural project. If the client already owns a plot of land, the first step is to check with the local council that construction is feasible. Once a favourable opinion has been obtained, the licensing project is drawn up. Once approved, the construction phase begins, in which priority is given to the use of local materials, thus reinforcing the sustainability of the process. With the accumulated experience and global recognition of the concept, solutions have been found to overcome bureaucratic barriers. For those wishing to develop a project of this kind, Earthship Experience guarantees the necessary technical support and also organises courses and workshops on bio-construction, aimed at professionals in the field, such as architects and engineers, as well as the general public, allowing anyone to acquire knowledge applicable to their own Earthship project.

Page: Earthship Experience