Environmental research

Pakistan is to embark on a massive housing programme for the poor. The majority live in the rural areas. We are to build 3 different pilot projects in the rural area of Sindh (Gharo) training masons at the same time. It is to demonstrate that the psychological barrier of earth building being temporary, is false. Provided certain strict rules are followed the buildings will last 50 years and more. Identify 12 masons (4 each pilot) and train them by building the 3 prototypes. Continuous workshops explaining history and immediate examples of earth construction demonstrating clearly the technological advantages. Make sure that beneficiaries understand that to achieve sustainability for their housing needs, that this is the most economical and environmentally friendly proposal. All soils will be tested and various constituents explained to beneficiaries, how to know which soil type is best for which type of construction. To demonstrate that climatically this solution provides cool in summer and warmth in winter. Immediate objectives . Transfer of technology to beneficiaries. Training of trainers. Provide a sustainable solution to rural housing needs. Demonstrate long lasting housing solutions. Expected project deliverables Removal of misconception and technical feasibility concerning use of earth as a long lasting indeed permanent solution to housing. Beneficiaries satisfied with these 3 solutions from security and comfort perspective. Government decision makers content that earth construction can and is one of the main solutions in resolving the countries major housing problems. Masons who will be trained by experts, continue training others. Technical acceptance of material, ensuring maintenance rules are followed. Institutions make the proper understanding of this material and method of building as part of their curriculum. Description of the proposed activities required in order to realize the project s objective, clearly indicating the sequence of activity (with time frame, responsible party etc.) The 3 techniques Adobe, Rammed Earth and CEB- are being implemented to enable the appropriate system to be used as indicated by the soil specifications in each location. Masons to attend workshop where the 3 building techniques will be demonstrated showing world wide and local usage, its method of analysis so that a general understanding is ascertained as to which type of soil is best used in either of the 3 systems. Start by demonstrating to masons the method best suited to making adobe blocks, process of curing and stacking; use of mold to allow earth to be rammed by hand held damper with the correct specification and method of soil layering that gives the best result; process of mixing soil to be placed in hand operated compressor machine, method of curing and stacking. Build 8ftx4ft high walls in each method allowing masons to build these under supervision by expert. Build 3 pilot projects. Target beneficiaries in terms of socio-economics, geography and gender, should be elaborated Target beneficiaries are the rural population living in poor housing conditions throughout the country. Villages that have been identified as most in need, will be subject to building of appropriate solution as demonstrated by the pilot projects. In most areas, women mix the earth and make blocks. They will be included in all training programmes.

Pakistan