An ecopod is a single container unit fabricated from and 8’ x 20’ shipping container that can be used alone or in combination with other units. The basic unit provides 160 sf of usable interior space plus another 160 sf deck area that is created when one side wall of the shipping container is lowered after it has been installed on site by two hydraulic cylinders.
The basic unit maintains its integrity as a shipping container and is easily portable. When closed, it protects against vandalism and can be left in place unused for extended periods of time. It is designed to be used on or off the grid with power provided by 80 watt solar panels for the refrigerator and wall outlets. Other off grid options include XM radio, 12V lighting and composting toilet.
The interior upgrades are factory fabricated and include recycled and environmentally friendly materials. These materials include, Ecosurfaces flooring made from recycled car tires, Magnesiacore wall panels, closed cell soya foam insulation and double-glazed thermal glass sliding doors. The wall panels and foam insulation together provide R-28 insulation value.
Project successes include portability and off grid capability resulting in a low environmental footprint and minimal operating costs. Shortcomings include limited living area unless multiple units are combined.
Sources:
http://ecopods.ca
http://tinyhouseblog.com/pre-fab/ecopods
