It is known that cement production is responsible for 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions highlighting the need for the construction sector to search and adopt sustainable practices, prioritizing waste elimination and maximizing material value. Therefore, engineers are experimenting with excavated soil. They argue that, when mixed with water and compacted, this soil transforms into a durable material strong enough for building walls. Indeed, it’s important to distinguish this from cement-stabilized rammed earth, which relies on large amounts of cement to achieve the necessary wall thickness.
Notably, rammed-earth construction offers scalability, combining recyclability, energy efficiency, and a low-carbon footprint. However, this construction method remains unpopular, underutilized and undervalued in the green building movement. In addition, research revealed that people choose not to construct with soil for social reasons rather than the challenges that are faced during the process. More specifically, according to the research engineers are managing to successfully surpass any problem linked with soil construction as technical challenges, wall strength, water damage, and energy performance. Societal stigma and economic barriers deter them from adopting this construction method.
Another reason that prevents people from altering the material is that earth construction is seen as labor-intensive and costly, with higher manufacturing expenses due to the lack of established supply chains. Moreover, constructors often find it economically unappealing in regions where taxes on carbon-intensive materials are low, and labor taxes are high. All the above obstacles could be managed if governments offered financial incentives, reduced certification and insurance costs, and created regulations to standardize earthen materials.
In all, building with earth is not only possible but also practical, sustainable, and necessary for a greener future. Shifting the construction industry towards this eco-friendly material requires a break from traditional supply chains and outdated perceptions. With proper design and implementation, earthen buildings can endure for decades, if not centuries, paving the way for more sustainable cities.
Sources: theconversation.com, ground.news
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