226

Arte Útil archive nr:

226

Initiator:

Dan Peterman

Location:

US

Category:

urban-development, economy, social

Users:

Homeless people

Maintained by:

Dan Peterman, Resource Center

Certification:

implemented

Duration:

1988

Dan Peterman
-
Chicago Compost Shelter

Description:

While working for the Resource Center, a non-profit recycling organization, Dan Peterman converted an adjacent lot into a temporary shelter for the homeless. Peterman created Chicago Compost Shelter with a Volkswagen van body, burying it in compost to retain heat. The van’s seats were removed, making the space large enough for a bed and some furniture. The compost used for the shelter was collected as part of a project to recycle organic waste in Chicago by the Resource Center. The compost consisted of a mixture of leaves, grass, clippings, and police horse manure.

Goals:

Temporary shelter for homeless in the winter, using organic material to produce heat.

Beneficial Outcomes:

Heated, temporary shelter without the danger of fire.

Images: