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We’re not sure what it is about the Airstream that makes it such a popular choice for restoration projects, expect perhaps that the external paint job doesn’t really need touching up and the colour never goes out of fashion.

On the Green Road is a web site that’s currently documenting one such in-progress project, whose goal is to transform a 2003 Airstream Safari and a used diesel truck into a perfectly paired, eco-friendly, off-grid home-from-home.

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Much of the 25-foot interior has been removed (with the parts passed on to other van owners) and replaced with greener alternatives, including 130 and 240-Watt solar panels, composting toilet and a water filtration system with rainwater harvester and environmentally friendly interior furnishings.

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Extensive use has been made from recycled and repurposed parts too, and anyone who’s ever contemplated taking on something similar should find the blog particularly interesting.

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More useful still is that the project has been documented in photographs throughout, which makes it all the more impressive once you see where the bloggers started (as shown above).

The whole thing has clearly been a costly exercise, but the bloggers have cleverly arranged sponsorship deals for some of the materials and equipment. Take a look and who knows? You might find some inspiration for your next bit of van DIY.

[On the Green Road]