In the lush landscapes of North Lombok, Indonesia, an ancient architectural marvel is offering modern solutions to a pressing global challenge: reducing carbon emissions in construction. Researchers, led by Rini Srikus Saptaningtyas from the Department of Architecture at Universitas Mataram, have turned their attention to Bale Mangina, a traditional residence that embodies sustainable design principles. Their findings, published in the *Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering* (known in English as *Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering*), suggest that traditional vernacular architecture could hold the key to a greener future for the construction industry.
The study reveals that Bale Mangina’s use of local bamboo and reed roofs significantly cuts down on embedded carbon emissions, reducing them by up to 45% compared to conventional materials. “The beauty of these materials lies not just in their aesthetic appeal but in their low environmental impact,” Saptaningtyas explains. “They are abundant, renewable, and require minimal energy to process, making them ideal for low-carbon construction.”
But the innovations don’t stop at materials. The study also highlights the passive cooling strategies employed in Bale Mangina, which maintain indoor temperatures between 26–29°C. These strategies, including natural ventilation and thermal insulation using organic materials, reduce cooling energy requirements by up to 35%. “These techniques are not just effective; they are timeless,” Saptaningtyas notes. “They have been honed over generations and are perfectly adapted to the local climate.”
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the world grapples with the need to reduce carbon emissions, the construction industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. The findings from this study suggest that traditional building techniques, when combined with modern technological advances, could offer a viable path forward.
“Integrating local wisdom with contemporary technology is the way to go,” Saptaningtyas asserts. “We can learn a lot from traditional architectures like Bale Mangina, but we must also innovate to meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
The study’s results are a call to action for architects, engineers, and policymakers. By embracing the principles of vernacular architecture, the construction industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to global sustainability goals. As the world moves towards a low-carbon future, the lessons from Bale Mangina could shape the next generation of sustainable buildings.
In a world where the energy sector is constantly seeking innovative solutions to reduce carbon emissions, the insights from this research offer a beacon of hope. The fusion of traditional wisdom and modern technology could very well be the cornerstone of a sustainable future for the construction industry.