Re-Using Shipping containers for building

Here is a post I saw recently on using shipping containers, with some interesting photos and explanatory text:

http://jodyforehand.wordpress.com/2011/02/11/ship-me-a-building-used-shipping-containers-as-architecture/

Its worth checking out.  Although not officially "GREEN"  it does fall into the category of recycling and helping to save the planet by re-using, upcycling items that have become waste products and no longer useful and are creating immense landfill problems.

This is the same type of concept that lies behind earthships (which are built with used types).


EXTRACT:

"....first, to use these as occupied buildings, you have to insulate them, heat and cool them, add electricity and add plumbing. All of those elements will encroach on the already cramped dimensions if you have to fit these elements within the exterior skin, but it can be done. The walls between units can also come out, and the ceilings and floors can be removed to create multiple volume spaces, but any more extensive demolition of the framing begins to break down the cost effectiveness of the system as well as the “green” benefits of reusing these containers......"

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Here are a few more useful links I found for further reading: 
Twelve amazing shipping container houses -  http://green.yahoo.com/blog/daily_green_news/8/twelve-amazing-shipping-container-houses.html
http://www.shipping-container-housing.com/shipping-container-drawing.html
http://www.greenhomebuilding.com/articles/containers.htm
http://www.fabprefab.com/fabfiles/containerbayhome.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shipping_container_architecture

Earthships

We have been investigating alternative building methods and earth ships for more than 12 years. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and use different materials usually recycled and natural.

Whilst on another site, I came across a link to this one. They claim to be the pioneers of earthships and whether or not that is true is any ones guess but they do have some good photos and info on there so take a look:

Check out http://www.earthship.net/

EXTRACT:

Begin Here:

The 6 Principles that define an Earthship:
1) Thermal/Solar Heating & Cooling
2) Solar & Wind Electricity
3) Contained Sewage Treatment
4) Building with Natural & Recycled Materials
5) Water Harvesting
6) Food Production


Heating & Cooling
Earthships maintain comfortable temperatures in any climate, with zero fossil fuels. Stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer with thermal mass and insulation.

Energy
Produce your own electricity from solar and wind modules. Use computers, microwaves, music equipment, sensitive equipment, etc. Automated, selective power sources.

Water
Catch water from the sky, use clean potable water - independent of municipal water supplies. Flush your toilet, treat your sewage, contained - onsite