Recently, there have been some threads concerning the intermodal shipping containers, and what to do with the apparently unneeded and excess containers in this country. Why not around the world?
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Lowe’ and Home Depot, as I recall sponsored a project to create a low cost housing alternative for the population that was rendered homeless in the wake of the Hurricane. Those ‘Katrina Cabins’ were esentially created on the footprint of the intermodal shipping container.
My thought is; since there is reportedly a building excess of these containers, specifically in this country’s ports, why not send them to the Haitians. They are strong structurally, they can be converted to an emergency shelter for a family, could comprise a structure with internals suited for occupancy by a family of several members, plumbed for sanitation, cooking, etc. Or a group could be structured around a group with common sanitary accomodations. The possibilities could be individualized for the immediate needs of the intended populations.
Surplus containers could be moved rapidly in bulk by ships to the areas of need. They could be constructed at the point of use or customized at an origin source and then sent ready to use to the needy area. Would solve the surplus and old,used container problem. Certainly the things are apparently constructed easily and relatively inexpensively at the sources in Asia. Just my thoughts. I am sure the folks here will have their own suggestions as well.
Anyway, it was just a thought ,and here is a link to a site that features BOb Vila, and some ideas abou this subject.