Professional Documents
Culture Documents
HS/1184/09E
ISBN: 978-92-1-132150-0
DISCLAIMER
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
ii
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
foreword
The civil war in Northern Uganda left thousands without homes and
stripped the landscape of a good part of its trees and foliage. Inspired
by UN-HABITAT’s Strategic Policy on Human Settlements and Crisis,
our response has focused on helping to speed up the return of dis-
placed persons and the process of reconstruction and recovery. Put-
ting in place critical infrastructure and services is essential to this task.
In a war-ravaged landscape, appropriate construction technologies
help to ensure the recovery of the environment which is so essential
in supporting people’s livelihoods. Darfur, Eastern Congo, and Somalia
are other examples in the region where similar approaches have been
piloted successfully and will hopefully be more widely utilized.
Anna K. Tibaijuka
Executive Director
United Nations Human Settlement Programme
(UN-HABITAT)
iii iv
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
preface
Meeting the need for adequate housing of the world’s population re-
quires sustained investment and continued innovation, particularly in
appropriate technologies that lower the cost of construction and the
cost to the environment.
vi
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
introduction
vii viii
Ta bl e o f C o n t e n t s
ix
INTERLOCKING STABILIZED SOIL BLOCKS
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
1
TYPES OF EARTH ARCHITECTURE Compressed Earth Blocks (CEB)
are construction blocks made from
a mixture of soil and a stabilizing
Over the ages, Earth Architec- agent compressed by different types
ture has always provided com- of manual or motor-driven press ma-
munities with basic protection chines. The Interlocking Stabilised
against harsh climatological Soil Blocks (ISSB) are a variation on © UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
this.
conditions. The grand mosques
of Mali and the Yemeni towns
are just two examples of rich Adobe blocks are similar to CEB’s
cultural expressions of refined and sometimes tagged as the precur-
sor of CEBs. Adobe blocks are usually
civilizations that expressed made of a compacted mixture of clay
themselves through Earth Ar- and straw, however are less uniform
chitecture. in size and shape than CEB’s.
© James Morris
Today, Earth has taken a back
seat as a material of choice for
dwelling construction. Cement Cob construction does not involve
blocks and iron sheets are now blocks or bricks. Instead a mix of clay,
signs of modernity and prog- sand and straw is made, then molded
ress even in the most remote and compressed into flowing forms
to make walls and roofs.
communities. Traditional con-
struction techniques and forms
of expression give way to new
‘global’ aesthetics, often harm-
ing the environment, and pro-
Rammed earth construction entails
ducing architecture irresponsive
the making of a mold into which the
to the climatological and cultur- soil, inclusive of a weatherproofing
al context. Overall, traditional agent, is compacted and left to dry.
construction skills to work with Subsequently, the mold is released
earth are eroding. In some cas- and the earthen form remains.
es, the over-reliance on wood, © University of Utah
which is increasingly hard to get
and the recurrent maintenance
needs, have helped to speed up Earth sheltering refers to the use
the disappearance of Earth Ar- of earth on the structure of a build-
ing; it includes Earth berming, in-hill
chitecture.
construction, and underground con-
struction.
Different contextual factors,
such as climate, have shaped
© Vetsch Architektur AG
earth construction techniques.
The predominant earth con-
struction techniques are: Wattle and Daub consists of a
wooden or bamboo frame laid ver-
tically and horizontally reinforced on
which earthen daub is packed.
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
© James Morris
ol-
of
he
h-
his
de
ks DEVELOPMENT OF ISSB TECHNOLOGY ISSB TECHNOLOGY
ess This specific machine produces blocks with a double
ng The idea of making blocks by Extensive research in appropri- interlock.
to compacting earth or mixing it ate technologies continues in re-
he with stabilizing supplements is sponse to the increasing need for
se affordable and environmentally-
an old concept dating back thou-
h- friendly shelter options. Tech-
mic sands of years. Previously, and still
customary in certain parts of the nological advances include new
ng
n- world, wooden molds are used types of interlocks, alternative
ost for making sun-dried or burned stabilizing supplements that can
earth blocks. be added to the soil and further
improvements to the press ma-
A key step in the evolution of chine. These technological devel-
this technology was the creation opments allow for ISSB technol-
ogy to become more competitive
of the CINVA-RAM press in the
due to increased productivity, a
1950s by the Chilean engineer
more user and environmentally
Raul Ramirez for the Inter-Ameri-
friendly profile, and an enhanced
can Housing Center in Bogota, SSB TECHNOLOGY
cost effectiveness. In the early
Colombia (CINVA). Since then,
1990s, Dr. Moses Musaazi, from The CINVA-RAM was developed after World War II,
the methods of producing earth
Makerere University in Uganda, in a time of shortage and need to save energy. It
blocks has progressed resulting developed a type of double inter- produces uniform rectangular blocks.
in diverse types of motor-driven locking system and curved blocks
and manual presses, and mobile for the construction of water
and industrial scale production tanks.
units.
Soil stabilization refers
Even though the CINVA-Ram and to the application of ad-
other machines of this sort pro- ditional supplements or
vided a more cost effective and forces to the soil in order
environmentally-friendly solution to make it more water-
for block-making, some disad- proof and stronger. The
vantages remained. There was quality of the block de-
still a need for masonry skills to pends on the properties
lay the blocks, as well as sig- and mix of soil types, the
nificant amounts of cement for amount of force applied ADOBE TECHNOLOGY
mortar. The Human Settlements for compaction, and the
This mold is commonly used in rural areas for mak-
Division of the Asian Institute of addition of chemical or ing of mud sun-dried or burned bricks. The fer-
natural products to further mented mud is thrown into the mold to avoid air
Technology (HSD-AIT) along with
stabilize and strengthen gaps. However, the final product is not uniform.
the Thailand Institute of Scientific
the blocks.
and Technological Research (TIS-
TR) combined efforts for the cre- The interlocks increase
ation of the first interlocking soil the structural stability of
blocks by modifying the CINVA- the wall and reduce the
RAM machine in the early 1980s. amount of cement needed
This new wall construction tech- as mortar. The different
nique reduced the use of cement types of interlocks have
drastically, hence reducing final different structural pur-
building cost considerably, and poses and architectural
enhanced the structural stability uses.
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez of the wall.
ISSB MACHINE The BLOCKS
ISSB Blocks
Depending on the machine, different type of ISSB
blocks can be produced:
Straight Double Interlocking Block: The most
commonly used block for wall creation.
Curved Double Interlocking Block: Used for mak- Straight Single Plan Elevation Section
ing water tanks and sanitation facilities. Interlocking Block
Wide Format interlocking Block: Allows for stron-
ger, thicker walls, especially useful when making
high walls.
Straight Single Interlocking Block: Contains a
larger face, hence less blocks are needed to cover
wall area. This was the predecessor to the straight
double interlocking block.
Grooved Double Interlocking Block: The grooves
of this block facilitate plastering, however, this ma- Grooved Double
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez chine is no longer produced. Interlocking Block Plan Elevation Section
PROCESS ANALYSIS for Cement-Stabilised Blocks
Divided soil
particles SIEVING
The sieving process is important
Wait 30 minutes for the soil
to settle. The heaviest parti- FIBROUS: in order to achieve good com-
cles, gravels, will settle at the pact and smooth finish. To max- Stack blocks in layers of
Stabilization can be achieved
bottom followed by sands,
silts, and clay at the top. This through the introduction of imize effectiveness allow sieved five and cover with grass
Fill a bottle with 1/4 soil fol-
lowed by 3/4 water
will give you an idea of pro-
a fibrous reinforcer into the soil to dry. or polythene paper. Full
portions of each particles in
Shake the bottle vigourosly
the soil. soil mix such as dryed grass- curing takes 28 days but
es, animal hairs, or synthetic blocks can be used before.
fibers.
SHRINKAGE TEST MIX PREPARATION REMOVING THE BLOCK
Once the cement-soil ratio is de-
termined by using the shrinkage
test, mixing can start. This ratio
is measured by the number of
4cm
60
cm wheel-barrows against one bag
CHEMICALS & RESINS: of cement.
At present there are many
chemical stabilizers being When removing the block,
produced specifically for MIXING
check its texture and quali-
4cm compressed earth block. Upon mixing the dry matter, in-
There are natural resins and ty. If unsatisfied, throw back
Make or buy a wooden box Fill the greased box with the After the soil has dried, note glues that can also be used troduce water for wet-mixing. into the mix.
with the dimension stated sieved and moist soil to be the shrinkage and record.
above and grease the inte- tested. Compact the soil har- When compared to the full for stabilization purposes. This will activate cement and in-
rior. dily into the mold. Leave the length of the mold this ratio stigate reaction. COMPRESSING THE MIX
mold to dry for a week in a will inform the amount of
shaded area. stabilizer to be introduced
into the mix.
10
HEALTH: ENVIRONMENTAL: ECONOMICAL:
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS and ADVANTAGES OF ISSB
The curved ISSBs are ide- ISSB technology pro- ISSB technology is an
al for meeting water and vides an alternative to affordable way of con-
The advantages of ISSB technology are many and even when compared to other technologies; it is affordable, sanitation needs. The the commonly used fired struction. The bricks are
environmentally sound, user friendly, performs well, versatile in use, among others. However, like with any other curved ISSB can make brick in Uganda, which weatherproof hence,
construction technology, care must be taken to ensure quality. The quality of ISSB’s depends on good and locally water tanks, lining for currently is the cause there is no need to plas-
pit latrines, and septic of grave environmen- ter the building exterior.
available soil selection, a stabilizer to compliment the type of soil, and good practices during production and imple-
tanks. There are samples tal degradation due to Also, due to its interlock-
mentation. of above-ground water deforestation, and de- ing mechanism, little ce-
tanks of up to 30,000 struction of wetlands. ment is needed between
Interlocking Concrete liters and below-ground block joints and wall
Properties Sun-dried Mud Block Burned Clay Brick Stabilised Soil Blockb of up to 200,000 lts. The construction goes up
Stabilised Soil Block Masonry Unit
final cylindrical shape quickly allowing for la-
GENERAL INFO of the structure and bor savings. The machine
the block interlocking itself weighs 140kg,
mechanism resists well making it in cases, easy
against water pressure. to transport and work
11 12 with onsite construction.
Block
Apperance
CREEC ENVIRONMENTAL
EC
ON
TH
Wall
AL
OM
HE
Apperance
ICA
(not rendered)
E L
E
D
TO US
UCATION
EASY
Dimension 25 x 15 x 7 cm to
26.5 x 14 x 10 cm 20 x 10 x 10 cm 29 x 14 x 11.5 cm 40 x 20 x 20 cm
( L x W x H ) (cm) 40 x 20 x 15
AL
STR
TIC UC
Weight (kg) 8-10 kg 5-18 kg 4-5 kg 8-10 kg 12-14 kg ESTHE TUR
AL
A
rough and rough and EASY TO USE:
Texture Smooth and flat smooth and flat coarse and flat
powdery powdery EDUCATIONAL:
The ISSB machine is
Blocks needed to easy to use and to main- As a new technol-
35 10 to 30 30 21 10 tain. After long use, ogy, this construction
make up a sq.m.
repairs can be made method can increase
PERFORMANCE locally through scrap local skills and become
material and welding. an income-generating
Wet Compressive
1-4 0-5 0.5 - 6 1-4 0.7 - 5 opportunity for various
Strength (mps)
Due to the interlock- populations. It is easy to
Thermal Insulation ing mechanism of the AESTHETIC: STRUCTURAL: learn and can stimulate
0.8 - 1.4 0.4 - 0.8 0.7 - 1.3 0.8 - 1.4 1 - 1.7 blocks, wall construc- educational dialogue re-
(W/m C)
tion is much easier and ISSB technology is ISSB technology has garding environmental
quicker. growing in popular- proven to be strong and issues due to its nature.
Density (kg/m3) 1700 - 2200 1200 - 1700 1400 - 2400 1700 - 2200 1700 - 2200
ity due to its aesthetic durable when compared
qualities, and has been with traditional method
AVG. PRICE (2009) successfully embraced of construction. It is
by many communities suitable for multistory
Per Block (UgS) 350 50 150 400 3000 trained on it. Also, in building, has a good
view that it is an earth compressive strength
Per Sq Meter technology, as most of and in many examples
35000 10000 55000 45000 75000 the common and tradi- has been used for the re-
tional methods used in taining wall of buildings.
Uganda, it is not foreign
Information for this chart gathered from Craterre publication: “Compressed Earth Blocks :Manual of Production” and GET
to local communities.
11 12
Clay Extraction
CONSTRUCTION IN UGANDA: Burned Bricks Adobe
Burned bricks are some of the most common construc- Adobe or sun-dried mud blocks
tion methodologies used in urban areas. In rural areas, are a common method of con- Economy: Considering that
struction in the rural areas and are the main raw material is mud,
wattle and daub still dominates rural construction in this type of construction is very
particular for the poor. For many people, a house made also used in camps for displaced affordable. Final cost varies de-
of burned bricks is accorded higher status than one people. They are environmentally pending on the plaster used.
made of sun-dried mud blocks or through wattle and friendly. The final aesthetic qual-
daub. ity of using sun-dried mud blocks Durability: If well maintained
© Manuel Scrima is however considered unpleas- and plastered, the building can
Clay Extraction ant. In addition, there is a need have a long life.
to plaster to extend building life.
Unmonitored soil extraction is damaging to the environ- Plaster techniques are, amongst Environment: There is little
ment and nearby communities. Burrows left unattend- others sand with mud and a spe- waste or energy involved mak-
ed create pools of stagnant water, providing breeding cial cassava mix with sand. Direct ing it an environmentally friend-
Deforestation grounds for mosquitoes, fuelling the spread of malaria. plastering with cement is expen-
ly technique..
Large scale clay extraction also decreases usable land sive and degrades quickly due to Resistance to Elements: Weak
for agriculture. the weak adhesion between clay to medium
to cement.
Deforestation and Firing © UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
15 16
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
TEACHERS’ HOUSING LIRA
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
The mission of UN-HABITAT is machines. The use of sun-
to promote socially and envi- dried clay soil blocks is a com-
ronmentally sustainable human mon practice in the area.
settlements and to work to- » Tender documents developed
wards adequate shelter for all. for use of ISSB by the private
sector allowing further stan-
Project Abstract: dardization.
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
three ISSB demo buildings were Lesson Learned
constructed in the area.
» Intense supervison is needed
Structure: at the start of the project to
ensure block quality.
» 16 ISSB buildings each con- » Use of better quality murram
taining four unit housing taken from more remote loca-
blocks tions instead of using local soil
» 16 ISSB two unit VIP-Toilet increases final cost.
blocks » Incorporating indigenous con-
» 32 unit kitchens made by the struction knowledge leads to
benefiting community innovations and sustainability.
» 3 demo offices, one contain-
ing an ISSB water tank Promoting the Technology
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
Type of Block Used: (local contractors and ma-
sons).
» Single Interlock » Developed a system of lending
» Double Interlock the ISSB machines and provid-
» Grooved Double Interlock ing training to interested local
community and private devel-
Contextual Innovations opers based on an agreement
guaranteeing the use of the
» The use of ISSBs at founda- machine.
tion level in form of a double » The construction of ISSB demo
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
wall. buildings as resource centers.
17 18
© ARUP
PAJULE SECONDARY SCHOOL
ARUP
Contextual Innovations
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
work is characterized by inno- Challenges
vative and sustainable design
solutions, and value-engineer- » No.2 type machines used to
ing projects. Through the Arup produce wider blocks needed
Partnership Worldwide, there more maintenance and repairs
are over 10,000 staff working » At the start, block production
in more than 90 offices in 37 was slow as a result of the fol-
countries. lowing:
• Due to the rainy season, the
Project Abstract murram soil used was wet,
making it difficult to sieve.
The school is located near Pajule • Labor force was new to the
town in Pader, Uganda. This technology however, speed in-
area currently houses one of the creased with time and practice.
largest IDP camps in the country. • Availability of suitable soil for
block making.
The purpose of the project is to • Lack of design and technical in-
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
provide a school building and a formation.
campus for the Pajule Secondary
School which currently shares Lesson Learned
its premises with the primary
school. The new school campus » Block production is slow when
will decongest the existing situ- murram is wet.
ation and provide the students » No.2 type machine needs to be
with a quality environment con- made more robust.
ducive to learning. » Well made blocks have a good
finish.
Structures: » Wall construction is quick.
» More design information is re-
Phase I: quired for more complex struc-
tures.
» Two classroom blocks
» Two Latrine blocks Other appropriate technologies
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
Upcoming Phases: » Rain water harvesting from
the roof.
» Classroom blocks
» Library Promoting the Technology
» Admin Building
» Employing local labor force for
Type of Blocks Used: block making and wall con-
struction.
» Wide Format Double Inter- » Donating ISSB machines to the
lock local community for further use.
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
19 20
WATER TANKS in Luwero
Contextual Innovations
Challenges
CARITAS Kasana-Luwero CKL:
» Receiving unsuitable raw ma-
CKL is the regional branch of a terial from the benefiting par-
faith-based organization “aim- ties.
ing at contributing to the social, » Devising methods of increas-
political, and economic devel- ing individual and/or organi-
opment of the masses through zational ownership of project.
various programs and projects Lack of technical data.
that lead to self-sustained devel-
opment of the individual house- Lesson Learned
hold in our communities. Since
the adoptions of ISSB technol- » Over the years, ISSB technol-
ogy by this organization eight ogy has proven to be a sound
years ago, they have proactively method of construction for
constructed over 600 water water tanks.
tanks in their region, residen- » Benefiting parties must be
tial quarters within their com- sensitized regarding raw ma-
plex, and a number of homes terial quality.
through a self-developed home » If well made, the blocks are
financing pilot program. weather-proof, hence do not
require plaster.
Project Abstract:
Promoting the Technology
CKL developed a regional pro-
gram for the provision of water » Promotion through project
tanks for the local communities. implementation.
This organization practices cost » Providing ISSB training.
sharing mechanisms with the
» Loan machines to aid regional
household or institution inter-
development.
ested in a water tank. The in-
terested party is required to pay
20% of the tank price as well as
provide the raw materials (mur-
ram, sand, cement), which the
CKL provides the trained ma-
sons and technical advice.
Structures:
» Water tanks
21 22
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
CONNECT AFRICA RESOURCE CENTERS
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
providing local residents with ap- Challenges
propriate technologies and training
to create sustainable communities. » Lack of design and technical data
» Transportation of machines.
Project Abstract: » Re-use of the cavity after soil ex-
cavations.
Connect Africa’s activities revolve
around “Connect Africa Resource Lesson Learned
Centers” (CARCs) that serve as a
base for training and technologi- » Need to plaster building up to
cal dissemination. At these ISSB window level to avoid block wear
community-constructed centers, » Ensuring a good structural con-
Connect Africa teams teach local nection between the roof and
the wall to avoid collapse due to
leaders how to use sustainable tech- strong winds.
nologies that in turn help raise the » Need for design and technical
local residents’ quality of life. Cur- data to aid in construction.
rently there are four CARCs, all lo- » It is cost effective to build with
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
cated in strategic areas in Northern ISSB technology.
Uganda including Kigumba, Opit, » Local communities can be easily
and Atiak; the recently constructed trained in block production.
‘hub’ located near Kampala.
Other appropriate technologies
Structures:
» Each CARC contains on-site an
» Each CARC holds a confer- ISSB Eco-San toilet. This technol-
ence room and living quarters ogy provides an alternative to ‘pit-
for volunteers latrines’ which contaminates the
» ISSB water tank(s) & water filters underground water tables. This
» ISSB production unit toilet contains an above ground
» ISSB Ecological Sanitation toilet collection tank to turn waste into
(Eco-San) compost and fertilizer.
» The CARCs in Northern Uganda
Type of Blocks Used: manufacture and distribute the
Bio-Sand Water Filters for treat-
© Connect Africa
» Double Interlock ing harvested water.
» Curved Double Interlock Promoting the Technology
Contextual Innovations
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
HYT works with communities to block made, helped students
improve quality of life by meet- to pay school fees, buy sup-
ing humanitarian needs, such plies, or mostly served as ex-
as housing, education, and ac- tra spending money.
cess to clean water in an en-
vironmentally friendly manner. Challenges
HYT provides training programs
and advocates ISSB technolo- » Coping with community
gies. HYT has been involved skepticism regarding the new
in over 20 ISSB projects in the technology.
Jinja area building water tanks, » Developing ways to increase
affordable teachers’ housing, individual or community own-
classrooms, perimeter walls, ership of the projects.
dormitories, and schools.
Lesson Learned
Project Abstract:
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
» Introduction of ISSB voca-
The most comprehensive proj- tional training into a school’s
ect taken upon by this orga- curricula is a successful way
nization is the development of achieving adoption of new
and expansion of Lord’s Meade technology and ensuring its
Vocational School containing use in the future.
within its campus samples of » Technology skepticism can be
reduced through constructing
all the previously mentioned
visible community structures
structures.
such as benches.
Structures: Promoting the Technology
© HYT
(bottom left) » Promoting the technology
» Double Classroom Block through project implementa-
» Store tion.
» Bench (top left) » Dissemination of information
to relevant stakeholders.
Type of Blocks Used:
» Double Interlock
» Grooved Interlock
» Curved Double Interlock
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
25 26
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY Sports field
Contextual Innovations
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
National Council of Science left un-plastered. The retain-
and Technology UNCST: ing wall is made using a dou-
ble layer of ISSB blocks with
The UNCST Vision is “to be steel reinforcement, both
the centre of excellence for horizontally placed along the
the management and integra- interlock and vertically tying
the two walls together, pro-
tion of science and technology
viding added strength to the
into the national development wall.
process. » The conventional concrete
lintel was substituted by re-
The UNCST Mission is “to pro- bar at that level.
vide effective and innovative
leadership in the development, Challenges
promotion and application of
science and technology and its » The main challenge was to
integration in sustainable na- make the wall strong enough
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
to serve as a retaining wall.
tional development”.
Lesson Learned
Project Abstract
» ISSBs can be made strong
The project objective was to enough for use in more struc-
use ISSB Technology to help turally demanding situations.
transform the Rugby pitch
into a quality field site, com- Promoting the Technology
plete with toilets, seating area
(stands) and a club house with » Visibility- identifying institu-
tions and places where peo-
locker rooms, dining area and
ple can see the technology.
VIP area.
Structures:
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
» Toilets
» Stands- seating area
» Retaining Wall-
Perimeter wall
» ISSB Water tank
» Double Interlock
© GET/Lisa Baumgartner » Curved double interlock
27 28
© Manuel Scrima
St. KIZITO PRIMARY SCHOOL
Challenges
© Manuel Scrima
futures for African youth through and error solutions.
educational support and community » The two machines hired for block
development. The construction of making produced blocks that
St. Kizito Primary School is the first varied in quality and size.
ISSB project completed by BULA. » The machine required constant
maintenance with regards to lin-
Project Abstract: ing of PVC and oil to prevent the
soil from sticking.
St. Kizitio Primary School is located
in the outskirts of Kampala in Ggan- Lesson Learned
da. The vision and execution of the
project was a collaborative effort of » Need for close supervision at the
the school management, local lead- early stages to ensure quality
ers, and BULA. By engaging the lo- control.
cal community, BULA initiated and » Building with ISSB technology is
managed the reconstruction of this time-effective; the project was
school. Supplies and labor were completed in 5 months
provided by the community. The » A good use of the cavity left
© UManuel Scrima
purpose of this project was to firstly after soil excavation as an un-
provide the children with proper derground water tank and pit
educational facilities for learning latrine
and additionally, to strengthen the » Using mostly local labor increases
ties and organizational skills of the community pride and ownership
community. of the project
Structures: Other appropriate technologies
» 8 ISSB classrooms; Nursery to P7 » The light of this complex is pow-
(150 Students)
» Two ISSB teacher offices and a ered by solar panels on the roof.
staff room » All of the harvested rain water is
» A 30,000 gallon underground treated through the use of Bio-
water tank and a 5000 L above Sand water filters. The school
ground tank has developed a system for wa-
» Solar powered lighting ter treatment using color-coded
» Toilet facilities containers: yellow for untreated
© Manuel Scrima
» A kitchen water, blue for clean water.
Contextual Innovations
© GET/Lisa Baumgartner
The goal of CREEC is to create
capacity in all fields related to Challenges
energy with a special focus on
energy management, solar pho- » The main challenge was en-
sure quality control of the
tovoltaic, hydropower, and bio-
blocks
mass.
Lesson Learned
The aim is to develop technolo-
gies and systems that have a di- » There was an easy skills trans-
rect, positive impact on people’s fer in terms of masonry skills.
everyday lives. » There was a cost savings of
30%
Project Abstract:
Promoting the Technology
To strengthen CREEC’s efforts
© Manuel Scrima
in the field of biomass energy » Promotion of the technol-
and to improve their research ogy through project imple-
facilities, this new laboratory mentation
space was constructed. It will
be called the Biomass Research
Centre. In addition to tests
with biomass and fuel-efficient
stoves, the facility will be used
to test and validate electrical
materials and equipment for lo-
cal markets, in conjunction with
the Uganda National Bureau of
Standards.
Structures:
© GET/Lisa Baumgartner
» Laboratory Facility
» ISSB Water tank
» Double Interlock
» Curved Double Interlock
© GET/Lisa Baumgartner
31 32
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
LESSON LEARNED
33 34
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
LESSONS LEARNED
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
standards for ISSB technology fol- es is changing the mentality of the Alternative stabilizers and soil Need for adaptable blocks
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
lowing the Kenyan example. This companies and individuals already mixtures The interlocking mechanism re-
is expected to be finalised in 2009. manufacturing and using the con- The most common method of mak- duces the necessary time for wall
In order to ease the integration of ventional methods of construction ing the blocks is through the mix of construction. However, for corner,
ISSB technology into more dense- such as burned bricks and con- cement or lime (stabilizer) and mur- intersecting and Y wall connec-
ly-populated urban areas, there crete blocks. Due to their popular- ram soil, compressed in the ISSB tions, there is a need to break the
is a need to produce more tech- ity, graduates of different educa- machine. However, in areas where block. By making a machine mold
nical data including quality tests tional programs are being trained insufficient amounts of murram are with additive pieces to change final
and appropriate building codes to suit the needs of the industry at available and cement or lime proves block shape, there ceases to be a
and standards. Standardizing and hand. As a new technology, ISSB is to be to expensive, affordability can need to break the blocks after cur-
publicizing technical data is essen- therefore at a disadvantage due to be a problem. There are several ing. Alternatively, a block-slicing
tial to promote use amongst pro- the lack of trained professionals. other potential stabilizers and soil apparatus could be developed for
fessionals in the building industry. In order to increase and ensure fu- mixes, which after compression can breaking the block before the cur-
Sufficient technical data should ture use of ISSB technology, espe- produce structurally-sound, cost-ef- ing process in order to maintain a
also help to promote building cially in urban areas, more young fective, and environmentally-friend- neat final finish.
techniques maximizing the advan- professionals need to be trained ly soil blocks. Compression itself is
tages of ISSB, instead of using ISSB in its use. In addition, introducing already a stabilizing agent. Need for alternative plastering
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
in conventional ways (e.g. with ISSB education into the curricula techniques
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
mortar instead of a fitted joint). will encourage further research. Facilitating transport of ISSB In Uganda, it is common to plas-
machines ter the building walls with cement,
The ISSB manual machine is the which is expensive and unafford-
3.2.3 Education able for low-cost housing. More re-
most cost-effective and accessible
way of making soil blocks. None- search is needed to provide popula-
Ignorance, lack of access to information, and education on environ- tions with effective, affordable and
theless, there is potential for further
mental topics, especially those related to sustainable construction, are environmentally friendly techniques
decreasing its costs and facilitating
present at all levels. Raising public awareness on environmental and to protect walls against wear and
its use. In rural areas with limited ac- tear.
equity issues is indispensable for sustainable development. For success-
cess, transportation of the machine
ful implementation of comprehensive and appropriate development
was challenging due to its weight Using ISSB for other building
issues, it is essential to educate the public, governments, social and
(140kg) mostly necessitating mo- elements
technical institutions and business groups about comprehensive sus-
torized transport. Some have man- Currently, the use of ISSB technol-
tainability issues. Just as an individual understands the implications of
aged to transport it by bicycle, us- ogy is mostly restricted to building
his daily financial decisions, similarly he should be cognisant of the so-
ing a number of people to slowly walls and water tanks. In customary
cial and environmental implications of his actions.
guide the bike to the construction shelter construction in Uganda and
Two main problems exist in the current education system. The first
site. Ways need to be explored to
© UN-HABITAT/Peter Donde
and most important one is a lack of integration of these efforts within other countries, the wall is not the
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
LESSONS LEARNED
Further improving affordability Need to consider timing More networking amongst Further promoting the technol-
stakeholders ogy with different stakeholders
Compared to other construction Avoid the rainy season
methods such as burned brick Some seasons will be better There are a variety of groups us- There is a need to elevate the
and concrete block construction, than others to produce blocks. ing ISSBs in Uganda, each build- profile of the technology, It is
ISSB technology has proven to During the rainy season, the wet ing up their own experience with increasingly categorized as a
be less expensive if implemented soil makes it harder to sieve, re- the ISSB technology. There is building material for low-cost
correctly. quiring additional measures. a need to develop information housing and consequently mis-
» Most savings are attributed to Sieving is an important process sharing mechanisms in order to taken as low-quality. Using the
the reduced use of cement mor- in the production of ISSB. It fa- facilitate further improvements technology in more ostentatious
tar needed between the block cilitates compression and ulti- and the further spread of the projects will help to challenge
joints due to their interlocking mately makes for more compact technology. A database of ISSB these assumptions.
© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
could help to further reduce with respects to the successful immediate local and more en-
the cost. The cost per square integration of the technology. vironmentally friendly resources
meter for ISSB is still too expen- An area assessment evaluating are most suitable in this context.
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
sive if compared with the tra- local resources and traditional ISSB technology has proven suc-
ditional techniques used in ru- construction techniques should cessful with respect the recov-
ral areas. However, the use of be performed before new tech- ery and reconstruction efforts in
compressed soil blocks without nologies are introduced, look- post-conflict areas of Uganda. It
additional stabilisers already ing at the raw materials avail- also provides an opportunity for
provides improved construc- able, local skills, and indigenous job creation in the affected re-
tion techniques. methods of construction. gions.
37 38
© UN-HABITAT/Adrian Perez
WAY FORWARD
39 40
WAY FORWARD
STANDARDIZE » Finalize the creation of National Standards and generic tender EDUCATE » Increase levels of awareness amongst the community at
documents, allowing diverse use of the technology taking into large with respests to appropriate technologies and sus-
account affordability. tainable living.
» Produce a maintenance and construction manual. » Teaching through project implementation such as demo
» Liaise with Ugandan Ministry of Education for the introduction projects,
of ISSB technology into vocational training colleges and tertiary » Build capacity at all levels.
educational institutions. » Introduce ISSB technology into the educational curricula.
» Development of educational modules to aid in the teaching of
ISSB technology in vocational and tertiary insitutions.
RESEARCH Encouraging further research and experimentation in the MONITOR » Increase efforts to monitor the various projects using ISSB
following areas: technology in order to ensure correct implementation and
to record best practices for furthering the technology’s de-
» Alternative environmentally friendly plasters. velopment.
» Alternative stabilizers for soil mixture.
» Increasing transportability of the machine.
» Use of ISSBs in other building elements such as roof and
foundation.
» Develop ISSB specific architectural details.
CONTEXTUALIZE
» Develop a standard method of assessing an area prior to ISSB
technological deployment.
PROMOTE » Develop culturally responsive promotional approaches in-
cluding manuals in the local languages, and establish re-
source centers in strategic locations.
» Increase awareness of alternative stabilization processes
to make the technology more contextually flexible, easily
implementable in a range of diverse settings and making it
more affordable.
» Promote the use of ISSB technology in more ostentatious
projects to showcase its qualities.
» Augment promotion efforts of the technology in urban ar-
eas through the private sector.
» Develop business models for the development of income
generating activities using ISSB technology.
» Create special programsmes for the conversion of the burnt
brick producers.
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© UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong © UN-HABITAT/Caylee Hong
FURTHER READINGS
INTERLOCKING STABILISED SOIL BLOCKS
Books and Publications Maïni, Satprem. Earthen Architecture for Appropriate earth technologies in Uganda
Sustainable Habitat and Compressed
Andabati, D. (2009). Construction Manual. Stabilized Earth Block Technology.Re-
Double Interlocking Rectangular Blocks trieved March 2009 from www.aurovile. Interlocking Stabilised Soil Block (ISSB) technology has been
for House Construction. Good Earth info/ACUR/documents/envi_urb_pres/sat- gaining recognition, particularly in East Africa. This material
Trust. prem_cpdc.pdf. and method of construction has the advantages of low cost
and minimal environmental impact, while providing compa-
CIB & UNEP-IETC. (2002). Agenda 21 for Practical Action. Alternative to Portland Ce- rable quality to conventional fired brick construction. With a
Sustainable Construction in Develop- ment, A technical brief.Retrieved March, growing number of organisations using the technology there
ing Countries, A discussion document. 2009 from www.practicalaction.org is a need to improve communication and knowledge-sharing,
Pretoria: CSIR Building and Construction to quantify and verify the benefits, and to develop efficient
Technology. Practical Action. Mud as Mortar, A technical brief. approaches for its promotion and adoption.
Retrieved March, 2009 from www.practica-
Guillaud, H., Joffroy, T. & Odul,P. (1995).Com- laction.org The purpose of this publication is to promote the use of ISSB by
pressed Earth Blocks :Manual of Design sharing some case studies of successful adoption and adapta-
and Construction. CRATerre-EAG, Aus Weinhuber, K. (1995). Building with Interlock- tion to local contexts. It also highlights some of the challenges
der Arbeit von GATE. Germany:Braunsch- ing Blocks. German Appropriate Technol- faced in developing and promoting the technology with some
weig Vieweg. ogyExchange. Retrieved March 2009 from
www.fastonline.org key lessons learned from projects in northern Uganda. This
Rigassi, V. (1995).Compressed Earth Blocks : document provides stakeholders interested in the sustainable
Manual of Production. CRATerre-EAG, development of human settlements with a reference tool for
Aus der Arbeit von GATE. Germany: Other an innovative construction method in practice.
Braunschweig Vieweg.
Good Earth Trust. (2009). Good Earth Trust
UN-Habitat.(1992). Earth Construction Technol- ISSB Project Database. Uganda.
ogy. Nairobi: UN-Habitat.
Perez, Adrian.(2009). Mission Report, ISSB
Yager, T. (2004), The Mineral Industry in Ugan- Technology in Uganda. Disaster Manage- HS/1184/09E
da. U.S. Geological Survey, National Cen- ment Programme. UN-Habitat ISBN: 978-92-1-132150-0
ter:Virginia.
UN-Habitat Regional Office Lira (April 2009). UN-HABITAT
ISSB Workshop Lira. Uganda P. O. Box 30030
Articles
00100 Nairobi
Prussian, Labelle. (1974). An Introduction to GPO KENYA
Indigenous African Architecture. The Tel: 254-020-7623120
Journal of the Society of Architectural www.unhabitat.org
Historians, Vol. 33, No.3, 183-205.
Printed in Nairobi
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