A Better Life

The New York Times joins in the discussion of better living for the poor, and greener ideas for us all.

First:

Design That Solves Problems for the World’s Poor

By DONALD G. McNEIL Jr.

Published: May 29, 2007

The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum is honoring inventors dedicated to helping the billions of people living on less than $2 a day.

Also, check out the Video:

Tools for Better Living
Video
An exhibit at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum in New York features inventions designed to help the world's poor move out of poverty.

Is there room for style in the sustainable living movement? Butofcourse! An Earthship may be a little out of my league, but there is a blog I frequent which features lots of exciting green design. There are pre-fabbed homes, recycled furniture, and a host of other ideas which seek to help us live a life with less waste.

Introducing ... INHABITAT!

Earthships

I was watching a show about Africa, and was reminded about the same thought I had during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. I had been thinking about earth ships. I had originally seen one some years ago on a "Home" show on cable.

Earthships are made of old beverage cans, glass and plastic bottles, and old tires. I know the idea of living in a home made of trash doesn't sound appealing, but the results of such items mixed with earth, cement, and adobe can be quite amazing.

With all of the trash we make, and all of the homes that need building, an earthship may be a viable option for those who need a decent home and few resources. Even if there is no running water or electricity, an Earth Ship has the potential to provide comfortable housing. I'm sure that it would be better than this: