Over half of all homes in India are constructed of mud, and this is for economy as well as preference. Even in cities people are beginning to think that their grandparents had it right. Mud houses have several advantages over modern materials, and here are 7 reasons why they better: 1. Longevity Mud brick can … Read more
Nearly 8,000 schools were destroyed in the 2015 earthquake in central Nepal, and more than 33,000 classrooms collapsed. Fortunately the quake struck on a Saturday when the schools were closed. The earthquake gave Nepali architects reason to consider stronger structures that also addressed seasonal variation in temperature, natural lighting and airiness. The Dwarpaleswor Secondary School … Read more
Jennifer Jacques’s daughter Asha came home unpectedly early when the University of Maine announced that it would close for the semester in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Jacques then had four people — herself, her oldest, her younger daughter and her toddler son, along with a dog and two cats — in … Read more
I watched a documentary video that was released for free at www.youtube.com on Earth Day. It is titled Planet of the Humans and is a sobering look at the ecological costs of industries that are touted as “clean energy.” The program was executive produced by Michael Moore. This feature length film (1 hr. 40 min.) … Read more
I recently got this email from Cato Arce in Mexico: This is Cato Arce, founder of Moradas Verdes in Mexico. We have been in touch before regarding Earthbag Building and the work I’ve been doing in Mexico. Like you, I am still busy working, promoting, and building with earthbags. I have been busy sharing and … Read more
Fair Companies has assembled a wonderful collection of video segments that offer advice from many parts of the world. For some, preparing for the unexpected has been a way of life for years. We visit (via their cameras) permaculture farmers in Tulsa, Oklahoma growing much of their food in backyard hoop houses, a rainwater harvester … Read more