In the heart of Ecuador, a traditional construction method is making waves in the sustainability arena, challenging the dominance of conventional reinforced concrete in social housing. Alid Rocha-Tamayo, from the Faculty of Engineering in Earth Sciences at ESPOL Polytechnic University, has led groundbreaking research comparing the sustainability of bahareque—a traditional construction system using Guadua cane—with reinforced concrete. The findings, published in ‘Frontiers in Sustainable Cities’ (translated as ‘Frontiers in Sustainable Urban Areas’), could reshape the future of affordable housing and energy-efficient construction.
The study, which employed a multi-criteria decision-making model called MIVES (Integrated Value Model for Sustainable Evaluation), considered economic, environmental, and social factors. “We wanted to go beyond just feasibility and really delve into the sustainability aspects,” Rocha-Tamayo explains. The results were striking: bahareque outperformed reinforced concrete with a sustainability index 17.5% higher.
So, what does this mean for the construction industry and the energy sector? For starters, it opens up new avenues for sustainable, affordable housing. Bahareque’s low environmental impact and use of local, traditional materials could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects. This is particularly relevant in the context of social housing, where government interventions are crucial to address homelessness and support vulnerable populations.
The commercial implications are substantial. As the world shifts towards sustainability, construction companies that embrace traditional, eco-friendly methods like bahareque could gain a competitive edge. Moreover, the energy sector could benefit from the reduced energy consumption associated with bahareque construction. “This framework can be adapted to different contexts and preferences,” says Rocha-Tamayo, hinting at the versatility and potential of this approach.
The research also highlights the importance of considering social impacts, such as working conditions and the use of traditional and indigenous materials. This holistic approach could pave the way for more inclusive and sustainable construction practices.
As we look to the future, the findings of this study could inspire a shift in the construction industry. By embracing traditional methods and prioritizing sustainability, we could see a rise in energy-efficient, affordable housing that benefits both people and the planet. The journey towards sustainable cities is complex, but as Rocha-Tamayo’s research shows, it’s a path worth exploring.