Underground dwelling means people living in spaces below the ground, whether natural or man-made caves, or even underground shelters. This type of living form is an option that combines environmental protection, quietness and energy efficiency, and has become a solution to living problems in some extreme environments. In Australia, especially in Coober Pedy, many people choose to live underground to escape the harsh climate conditions and enjoy their unique lifestyle.
Living underground helps protect against harsh weather, provides a quiet living space, and is virtually invisible within the surrounding natural landscape.
The history of underground living can be traced back thousands of years. During archaeological excavations in Switzerland, Germany and other places, some remains of ancient underground dwellings were discovered. At the end of World War II, Nazi Germany moved its weapons factories underground to avoid Allied aerial bombing, which once again made the significance of underground living important.
In some parts of Australia, underground homes are being constructed using methods similar to prairie dog burrows. The design consists of a "chimney" that is elevated above ground level, and an entrance that is located at ground level. This design not only maintains indoor ventilation, but also reduces the need for air conditioning in summer, thus saving energy.
As global urbanization continues, more and more cities are beginning to pay attention to the development of underground space, which is a trend that responds to the United Nations' sustainable development goals. They recognize that underground space can provide new solutions for urban resource management and further improve the sustainability of the urban environment by coordinating cooperation among various stakeholders.
Considering the underground dimension in urban planning is key to achieving sustainable living.
Underground dwellings can take many forms, from natural caves to man-made excavated habitats. The construction technology for these structures was developed from mining techniques and, while potentially more expensive and dangerous, could provide deep living space. In Coober Pedy, Australia, most houses are built underground because the outside environment is too hot.
Underground life is often the subject of literature and film. In J.R.R. Tolkien's stories, the hobbits lived in caves beneath the earth, while Jules Verne's The City Underground was set in underground life. Similar themes are explored in science fiction films such as THX 1138.
The uniqueness of Australia's underground life not only protects residents from the harsh climate outside, but also promotes a new type of social structure and environmental awareness. However, can such a lifestyle be accepted and popularized on a wider scale?