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.