Material used by Miyamoto International’s implementation of USAID/BHA Ecuador Building Resilience Program (EBRP) 2017-2023
Affordable housing is a multifaceted challenge, with cost and scalability being key dimensions. However, one aspect that is often overlooked and understudied is the integration of vernacular materials and techniques in contemporary building practices due to its complexity. The question arises: How can we effectively reconcile sustainable housing construction with local materials, passive design strategies, and large-scale, vertical development?
A pressing need exists for research in this field, as certain materials, like bamboo, have showcased promising attributes. Studies indicate that bamboo not only has very high performance but also boasts higher compressive strength than concrete (Bala, Gupta 2023) and high resistance to earthquakes (Hamot 2017) (Baghel 2017). While bamboo is primarily used in Asia, it is cultivated in many countries. For example, in Uganda, bamboo farming is gaining momentum, driven largely by export markets. However, its potential for local use in housing construction remains untapped despite its suitability as a sustainable and high-performance building material.
As we work towards a more sustainable future, a key focus should be on reducing the use of cement and increasing reliance on natural, locally sourced materials. This is especially important as the pressure on resources will continue to drive up the prices of materials and energy. This shift not only fosters the development of new industries and job creation but also aligns with environmental preservation and reduced CO2 emissions goals. These actions would directly contribute to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals, including responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), climate action (SDG 13), and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8).
Renowned architect Francis Kéré has exemplified the feasibility of this approach on a smaller scale in Burkina Faso. By building educational buildings using entirely bio-sourced materials, he demonstrated that sustainable practices are achievable.
Yet, several obstacles hinder the widespread adoption of this strategy. Challenges include the reluctance of local populations to embrace materials other than concrete and cement, coupled with a lack of technical knowledge and skills among industry professionals. Overcoming these hurdles will require genuine political commitment. If using bio-sourced materials poses limitations for vertical construction, alternative solutions must be explored to densify existing urban areas. The path to sustainable housing is intricate but holds the promise of not only addressing housing needs but also fostering environmental responsibility and community well-being.
About the Author
Laura Grelet is a housing expert who leverages her expertise in housing policy, finance, and development to create sustainable and inclusive housing solutions. Focusing on emerging markets, Laura integrates data analysis, market research, and innovative housing strategies to address the critical needs of affordable housing.
Graduate of Sciences Po Paris with a Master of Science (M.Sc) in Urban Policies and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Sciences, Laura is passionate about advancing housing equity and improving access to decent, affordable housing for underserved communities worldwide.
