LET US BUILD MORE BIO-HOMES

LET US BUILD MORE BIO-HOMES

What idea could build more affordable housing, create a market for recycled materials, and enable sustainable living? The answer lies in the rise of Bio-Homes—an innovative solution that merges affordability, sustainability, and smart design.

About forty years ago, the buzzword in development circles was "appropriate technologies." Today, that has evolved into the more powerful and comprehensive term "sustainable technologies." While the older term focused on local adaptation, the newer one is part of the broader vision of "sustainable development." Personally, I favor the new term. After all, what’s the use of being "appropriate" if it’s not "sustainable"? A technology that works today but fails tomorrow does little for our future.

To start small, I'd already be pleased if we could incorporate recycled materials into housing—even just in part. But I would be even more thrilled if we could go further and integrate renewable, organic materials like bamboo. Fortunately, we’re planting more bamboo than ever. But if we don’t build a market for it, our bamboo bounty may become a burden, disappointing the very farmers we encouraged.

But wait, there's more! Bio-Homes don’t just stop at green construction materials. They also include other environment-friendly technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and biogas digesters. They even integrate systems like aquaponics, aeroponics, and classic agriculture, bringing food security right into our homes.

Design-wise, these homes support energy efficiency—not only through technology but through architecture itself. With natural ventilation and smart orientation, they reduce dependence on air conditioning. This means energy security, food security, and even climate security—all in one home.

Take the issue of glass waste. Previously, glass bottles posed a recycling dilemma—especially non-uniform, single-use ones. Now, with Bio-Homes, bottles of any size or color can be used in "glass walls." Even broken glass can be ground into sand and mixed with concrete or hollow blocks.

So, what do we get? People who build these homes not only save on construction by using recycled materials, but they also slash water and energy bills. Rainwater can be collected from rooftops. Water from nearby sources can be boiled or filtered using low-cost energy. Cooking can be powered by biogas or solar stoves. Residents can raise poultry and livestock to produce the manure needed for their digesters.

To bring this to life in the Philippines, a Technical Working Group (TWG) should be formed. It could include the DHSUD, DPWH, DOST, FPRDI, DTI, and the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP). Top architecture schools should also be involved. Companies like Envirotech Waste Recycling, Restore Company, and Trident are already creating building materials from waste. Others like Vantastic, Smarthouse Philippines, and Vazbuilt are repurposing container vans for prefab homes—ideal foundations for Bio-Homes.

A bio-home minimizes environmental impact and promotes eco-living. These houses use biodegradable or recyclable materials such as wood, clay, cork, and natural stone. They emphasize energy efficiency (via solar panels and insulation), local sourcing, and eco-friendly design. Worldwide, the movement is gaining momentum:

·       Sweden is building a "Wood City" using timber.

·       In Africa, the Burj Zanzibar is rising as the tallest timber building.

·       The UN Environment Programme is pushing for bio-based construction.

The Philippines is ripe for this. With our tropical climate and natural resources, bamboo construction is a no-brainer. Bamboo grows quickly, is earthquake-resistant, and blends beautifully with nature. It can be used for frames, floors, furniture, and even insulation. Plus, community collaboration around bamboo construction could spark jobs and pride.

Old rubber tires? They can be turned into crumb rubber concrete, waterproofing materials, or mixed into earthworks. They improve insulation and make homes more resilient.

Used glass bottles? Perfect for decorative, insulating bottle walls. Benefits include sustainability, thermal insulation, natural lighting, and affordability. Local projects can teach people how to safely and creatively use bottles in construction.

There are global precedents:

·       Earthships, started by Michael Reynolds, use recycled materials in tropical climates.

·       The Bottle School Project in Guatemala builds classrooms with waste.

·       In Canada, a glass bottle house became a tourist attraction.

How do we make this happen? We need:

·       Crowdfunding to rally public support.

·       Partnerships with NGOs and eco-conscious companies.

·       Government incentives for environmental construction.

·       Community engagement through workshops and volunteer build-days.

Top architecture schools like UST, Enderun, UE, Adamson, and UP should be engaged to innovate and educate.

In sum, Bio-Homes aren’t just homes—they’re a lifestyle revolution. They’re affordable, beautiful, eco-friendly, and practical. Let's lead the way in building a future that’s not just appropriate, but truly sustainable.

Let us build more Bio-Homes—because the future of housing should be as green as the land it stands on.

Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres

iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com

06-01-2025

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