This enthralling documentary is not simply about the fascinating subject of Garbage recycling and bio-diversity along with the architechtural designs associated with biotechture but as much to do with the struggle against the massively obstructive US Government legislature in order to explore different mechanisms to survive against the global warming in the world.
Architect Michael Reynolds strives against the odds to develop techniques and diversity to provide self sustainability for many.
He maps the progress of his many “Earthship” communities and how each have come into being. Using solar energy and utilising garbage in his buildings (Beer bottles, plastic bottles etc) he has over the years built special buildings in New Mexico which are totally “Off-grid” using no gas, electric or water.
Reynolds shows how these remarkable buildings require no heat even in the height of winter when it can get to minus 35 degrees.
This starts as a fantastic evolutionary “Grand Design” type documentary but you then begin to be drawn into the complex and TOTALLY frustrating regime of legislating which seeks to prevent any degree of change; often to solely protect other carbon inefficient industries! The documentary is a rollercoaster of excitement for the enthusiastic followed by real dips when dealing with the politics.
It took Reynolds to take his team to a Tsunami area and build some structures there before some of the self motivated , agenda focused, politicians to grant him the opportunity to develop his radical thinking and development.
The documentary addresses:
- Thermal mass
- Wind power
- Solar power
- Rammed earth
- Garbage utilisation & recycling
- Water harvesting
- Renewable energy
- Temperature stabilization
This allows you to understand the benefits of having no mortgage, no utility bills etc….brilliant.
Read more at Garbage Warrior.
