Slum Upgrading

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Slum upgrading, on microlevel in a

Slum upgrading, on microlevel in a global perspectiveglobal perspective Dissertation, Copenhagen Technical Academy Dissertation, Copenhagen Technical Academy Autumn 2009 Autumn 2009 Troels Vejby, 7I Troels Vejby, 7I

List of content

Acknowledgements ...2 Acknowledgements ...2 Preface...3 Preface...3

Analysis - Defining the slum...5

The term “slum”...5

Where to find slums...6

Who is affe Who is affected...cted...7..7

What was the beginning of slums? What was the beginning of slums?...8...8

Housing...9

Water and sanitation...11

Describing the UN-HABITAT definition of Describing the UN-HABITAT definition of “ad-equa equate te housihousing”...ng”...13...13

Discussion – Upgrading of today...16

Housing construction...16

“War “Warm humid regions” and “m humid regions” and “dry hot regions” .dry hot regions” . 1616 V Ventilatientilation on through roof through roof constconstruction...17ruction...17

Using the wall and the floor for ventilation and Using the wall and the floor for ventilation and light...18

light...18

Improvi Improving building materials...ng building materials...1919 Wood ...19

Wood ...19

Adobe...20

Bricks by Bricks by wastwastepaper...epaper...22...22

Plastic bottl Plastic bottles as es as masonrymasonry...23..23

ecoBUILD...23

Concrete...25

In general...25

Decentr Decentralized alized sanitatisanitation on solutionssolutions...26...26

Simple improved pit latrines...27

Ven Ventilattilated improved pits ed improved pits (vip)...28(vip)...28

Pour-Pour-flush flush latrine...latrine...28...28

Compos Composting dry ting dry latrine...latrine...29...29

Locati Locating the latrines...ng the latrines...3030 Decentr Decentralized water alized water solutions ...30solutions ...30

Instant micr Instant microbiologicobiological purifier ...al purifier ... ...31...31

SQflex...31

Centr Centralized toilet and alized toilet and watewater solutions...r solutions...32..32

Community Community-designed toilet blocks ...-designed toilet blocks ...32...32

Problems on administration and political level. Problems on administration and political level. ...35

...35

Designing a realist Designing a realistic building code ...ic building code ...35..35

Fire preca Fire precaution in the slum...ution in the slum...36...36

Using Using communicommunity ty contrcontractoractors...s...3737 Review – Towards a better future...39

Review – Towards a better future...39

Evaluating discussion...39

Building methods and mat Building methods and materials...erials...3939 Water and sanitation...40

T Towards a better owards a better future for the slum future for the slum dwellers42dwellers42 Economical solutions...43

Economical solutions...43

Microfinance...43

T Technologiechnological and building cal and building method solutionsmethod solutions.. ...44.44 The IKEA concept...44

The IKEA concept...44

Energy supply solutions...46

Educati Educational onal solutionssolutions...47...47

Conclusion...49

Page 1 Page 1

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Acknowledgements

1.

1. HenHenrierietttte Noe Nobilbili Ci Chrihrististiansansenen 2.

2. JøJørrgegen En Eskskememososee 3 3.. KKaatt 4 4.. FFaaddeerr 5 5.. OOllee 6.

6. KKiriran an SaSandndhuhu 7.

7. MMirironona a MMototococ

Thank you so much. Thank you so much.

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Preface

This dissertation will be a report describing how to upgrade slum areas, on a micro level, but in a This dissertation will be a report describing how to upgrade slum areas, on a micro level, but in a global perspective. Simple and basic ideas for how to improve or build housing, water and global perspective. Simple and basic ideas for how to improve or build housing, water and sanita-tion for the poorest people all over the world. All written in a perspective of the overwhelming tion for the poorest people all over the world. All written in a perspective of the overwhelming urbanization and the about one billion people living in the slum.

urbanization and the about one billion people living in the slum.

The slum issue of

The slum issue of today is a two folded issue, that pretty much divides itself today is a two folded issue, that pretty much divides itself at equatorat equator. The prob-. The prob-lematic of slum that occurs in the northern part of the world, are of a completely different state, lematic of slum that occurs in the northern part of the world, are of a completely different state, then the slum in southern

then the slum in southern countries. It is important to underline, that this dissertation only relatescountries. It is important to underline, that this dissertation only relates to the slum on the southern globe.

to the slum on the southern globe.

The dissertation takes its beginning, at the UNhabitat defined, minimum requirements for The dissertation takes its beginning, at the UNhabitat defined, minimum requirements for dwell-ings. These requirements defines the minimum standards that all homes or dwellings should ings. These requirements defines the minimum standards that all homes or dwellings should provide.

provide.

Based on the UNhabitat requirements and common building knowledge, deferent materials and Based on the UNhabitat requirements and common building knowledge, deferent materials and methods will be

methods will be examexamined.ined.

In the end the end, the examined materials and methods, will be evaluated and finally different In the end the end, the examined materials and methods, will be evaluated and finally different possible solutions to

possible solutions to the problem will be the problem will be skesketched.tched.

Troels vejby Troels vejby

Page 3 Page 3 Question: How can we improve life of slum dwellers around the world with help from

Question: How can we improve life of slum dwellers around the world with help from already knowns methods and materials? And how can we make future improvements? already knowns methods and materials? And how can we make future improvements?

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Slum upgrading, on microlevel in a global perspective Slum upgrading, on microlevel in a global perspective Dissertation, Copenhagen Technical Academy Dissertation, Copenhagen Technical Academy Autumn 2009 Autumn 2009 Troels Vejby, 7I Troels Vejby, 7I

Analysis - Defining the slum

The term “slum”

Defining the term slum has been done, various Defining the term slum has been done, various ti

timemes s anand d in in vvararioious us wawaysys. . ThThe e arareaeas s cacalllleded “slums” are different all over the globe. The word “slums” are different all over the globe. The word has different meanings depending on which has different meanings depending on which coun-try you go to. Sometimes the are called “slums”, try you go to. Sometimes the are called “slums”, some

sometimes times “inf“informal ormal setsettlemetlements”nts”, , “fa“favellvellas”as”,, “chanty town

“chanty towns”s”, “skid , “skid rows”rows”, etc, etc11_..

Defined by the United Nations agency Defined by the United Nations agency UN-habit-at, the slum is, a “run-down area of a city at, the slum is, a “run-down area of a city charac-terized by substandard housing and squalor and terized by substandard housing and squalor and lacking in tenure security”

lacking in tenure security”22_..

The characteristics associated with slums vary from place to place. Slums are usually The characteristics associated with slums vary from place to place. Slums are usually character-ized by urban decay, high rates of poverty, and unemployment. They are commonly seen as ized by urban decay, high rates of poverty, and unemployment. They are commonly seen as "breeding grounds" for social problems such as crime, drug addiction, alcoholism, high rates of "breeding grounds" for social problems such as crime, drug addiction, alcoholism, high rates of mental illness, and suicide. In the slums of the poor countries that this dissertation is about, mental illness, and suicide. In the slums of the poor countries that this dissertation is about, people exhibit high rates of disease due to

people exhibit high rates of disease due to unsan-itary condit

itary conditions, malnutritions, malnutrition, ion, and lack and lack of of basicbasic health care. Low socio-economic status of its health care. Low socio-economic status of its res-idents is another common

idents is another common charactcharacteristic of slumseristic of slums ..33

Although slums exist in both the developed and Although slums exist in both the developed and the undeveloped world, there is a fundamental the undeveloped world, there is a fundamental difference betw

difference between them. Ishøj and een them. Ishøj and Albertslund inAlbertslund in

1

1 http://en.wikipedia.orhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slumg/wiki/Slum

2

2 htthttp://wwp://wwww.un.or.un.org/millenng/millenniumgiumgoals/poals/pdf/mddf/mdg2007g2007.pdf .pdf

3

3 http://en.wikipedia.orhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slumg/wiki/Slum

Page 5 Page 5

Ill. 1:Slum in Rio de janairo. Ill. 1:Slum in Rio de janairo.

Ill. 2:Slum in Mumbai Ill. 2:Slum in Mumbai

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Denmark are of course of

Denmark are of course of a completely different standara completely different standard than d than the poorest slum areas in the poorest slum areas in Mumbai.Mumbai. The fundamental difference between the “northern” and “the southern” slum is the great The fundamental difference between the “northern” and “the southern” slum is the great differ-ence in income or the massive economicalal poverty and the great infrastructurure needs in the ence in income or the massive economicalal poverty and the great infrastructurure needs in the third world.

third world.

Where to find

slums

The worst kind of slums are to be found in South America, south of Sahara and South-east Asia. The worst kind of slums are to be found in South America, south of Sahara and South-east Asia. Countries

Countries like India, Melike India, Mexico and Nigeria have become known for there giant slum districtxico and Nigeria have become known for there giant slum districts. Slumss. Slums also occurs on the northern

also occurs on the northern hemisphere. China, Russia and Turkhemisphere. China, Russia and Turkey house millions of ey house millions of slum dwellers,slum dwellers, although the conditions of these

although the conditions of these slums offer a higher staslums offer a higher standard, and therefore not to be clasndard, and therefore not to be classifiedsified as poorly, as the slum on the southern

as poorly, as the slum on the southern hemisphere.hemisphere.

Ill. 3:30 bi

Ill. 3:30 bi ggest slums in the world. Soggest slums in the world. So urce: Mike Durce: Mike Davis: “Planet of the slums”avis: “Planet of the slums”

Ill. 4:Source: UNhabitat 2003 Ill. 4:Source: UNhabitat 2003

China China India India Brazil Brazil Nigeria Nigeria Pakistan Pakistan Bangladesh Bangladesh Indonesia Indonesia Iran Iran Philippines Philippines Turkey Turkey 0 0 2200 4400 6600 8800 11000 10 1220 10 1440 10 16600 11880 20 20000 Number of slum dwellers by country

Number of slum dwellers by country

Ill. 5:Source: UNhabitat 2003 Ill. 5:Source: UNhabitat 2003

South Asia South Asia East Asia East Asia Sub

Sub-sahara Afri-sahara Afri caca Latin America Latin America North & West Africa North & West Africa Europe & Cen Europe & Central Asitral Asi aa

North Ame North Ameriri caca

0

0 5500 110000 115500 220000 225500 330000 335500 Number of slum dwellers by region

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Urbanization today seems to have exploded

Urbanization today seems to have exploded..44 _{In 2006, a tipping point was reached: more then}_{In 2006, a tipping point was reached: more then}

half of the worlds population was living in cities

half of the worlds population was living in cities55_{.. As a consequence cities like Mumbai, Sao Paulo,}_{As a consequence cities like Mumbai, Sao Paulo,}

and Lagos have reached the status of mega cities. Cities with more then 10 million

and Lagos have reached the status of mega cities. Cities with more then 10 million inhabitants.inhabitants.

Massive cities are rising around the actual city cores, with millions of people, desperately trying Massive cities are rising around the actual city cores, with millions of people, desperately trying to make a living. They seek the cities,

to make a living. They seek the cities, looking for a better life than the looking for a better life than the rural areas can provide. Butrural areas can provide. But in the Third

in the Third World the migration towards the city often many times has World the migration towards the city often many times has a completely different anda completely different and more crucial character. Dreams of working in a factory or behind a desk often become an illusion. more crucial character. Dreams of working in a factory or behind a desk often become an illusion. And instead of house, car and education it ends in poverty and unemployment. But still, it is a bet And instead of house, car and education it ends in poverty and unemployment. But still, it is a bet --ter life then the rural life. In the city it's easier to make a living. Selling chewing gum, corrugated ter life then the rural life. In the city it's easier to make a living. Selling chewing gum, corrugated iron sheets, or other accessories at street corners is often seen, but too often the city dream also iron sheets, or other accessories at street corners is often seen, but too often the city dream also ends in

ends in prostitution, prostitution, drugs and drugs and crime.crime.

Who is

Who is affectaffecteded

According to the UN, one billion people According to the UN, one billion people world-wide live in slums and

wide live in slums and the figure will likely grow tothe figure will likely grow to 2 billion by 2030

2 billion by 203066_{, and often the numbers are un-}_{, and often the numbers are}

un-derestimated

derestimated77_{. That makes one of every six}_{. That makes one of every six person}_person

in this world a slum dweller. The proportion of in this world a slum dweller. The proportion of urban dwellers living in slums decreased from 47 urban dwellers living in slums decreased from 47 per

percencent t to to 37 37 perpercencent t in in the the devdeveloelopinping g worworldld between 1990 and 2005

between 1990 and 200588_{. However, due to rising}_{. However, due to rising}

population, the number of slum dwellers is rising. population, the number of slum dwellers is rising. Since the fundamental problem of the slum cities Since the fundamental problem of the slum cities is

is the the povpovertertyy, , the the oveoverarall ll desdescricriptiption on of of sluslumm dwellers is poor people. In 2008

dwellers is poor people. In 2008 the World Bank defined the absolute poverty as an income less of the World Bank defined the absolute poverty as an income less of

4

4 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urbanizationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urbanization

5

5 UnitUnited ed NatioNation Hun Human man SettSettlemenlements ts ProgProgram. ram. 20032003

6

6 UnhUnhabiabitat 20tat 2007: ”S07: ”Slum Dwlum Dwelleellers to dors to doubluble by 20e by 2030”30” 7

7 2005, 2005, UN miUN millennllennium ium projeproject. ct. p.15p.15

8

8 htthttp://wwp://wwww.un.or.un.org/millenng/millenniumgiumgoals/poals/pdf/mddf/mdg2007g2007.pdf .pdf

Page 7 Page 7

Ill. 6:Source: The world

Ill. 6:Source: The world bank; Poverty overviewbank; Poverty overview.. $ $11 $$11..2255 $$11..4455 $$22 $$22..55 $$1100 0% 0% 20% 20% 40% 40% 60% 60% 80% 80% 100% 100%

People in the world at People in the world at

dif-ferent poverty levels ferent poverty levels

Inc

Income ome per dayper day

B

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1.25 dollar a

1.25 dollar a day per person, and moderate poverty when a person lives below 2 day per person, and moderate poverty when a person lives below 2 dollars a daydollars a day99_..

Other characte

Other characteristics of the urban poor ristics of the urban poor are a minimum educational level and a very young demo-are a minimum educational level and a very young demo-graphic distribution.

graphic distribution.1010

What was the beginning of slums? What was the beginning of slums?

One can wonder why some local authorities and One can wonder why some local authorities and ci

city ty adadmimininiststraratiotion n seseem em to to do do vevery ry lilittttle le - - oror choose to ignore the problems concerning slums choose to ignore the problems concerning slums altogether. All cities with slums also have large altogether. All cities with slums also have large numbers of beggars, thieves and pavement numbers of beggars, thieves and pavement dwell-ers in the city center. People that make a living ers in the city center. People that make a living from crime or street sale. The Danish artist Jørgen from crime or street sale. The Danish artist Jørgen Leth made a description from Haiti: “They (the Leth made a description from Haiti: “They (the rich) solve the problem with devastated roads, by rich) solve the problem with devastated roads, by b

buuyyiinng g hhuummmmeerrss, , huhugge e hhuummmmeerrss, , ffoorr themselves”

themselves”1111_{. This is how the leading class in Haiti solves the infrastructural problems of their}_{. This is how the leading class in Haiti solves the infrastructural problems of their}

country: They buy themselves a better car. This is the ignorance the slum dwellers are left dealing country: They buy themselves a better car. This is the ignorance the slum dwellers are left dealing with. Mostly the city administrations have only cared about providing the most basic with. Mostly the city administrations have only cared about providing the most basic infrastruc-ture, such as limited water supplies, or a little street light, enough infrastructure to keep people ture, such as limited water supplies, or a little street light, enough infrastructure to keep people from rioting. Sometimes the city administration has done nothing at all. Not just roads, water, from rioting. Sometimes the city administration has done nothing at all. Not just roads, water, electricity, but also security is a matter for the inhabitants. This has left the space open for gangs electricity, but also security is a matter for the inhabitants. This has left the space open for gangs and clan leaders. Several times it has come to great clashes between military police and gangs in and clan leaders. Several times it has come to great clashes between military police and gangs in the slums around Sao Paulo and Rio

the slums around Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. The gangs have been growing through their powerde Janeiro. The gangs have been growing through their power bases in the unstable slum.

bases in the unstable slum.

The ignorance has left the inhabitants of the slums with a great feeling of alienation. For The ignorance has left the inhabitants of the slums with a great feeling of alienation. For in-stance, they are often left with a lack of the most basic attribute of citizenship, the street stance, they are often left with a lack of the most basic attribute of citizenship, the street

ad-9

9 The The world world bank: bank: “poverty “poverty overview”overview”

10

10 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slumhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slum 11

11 ”Esman og Leth”, www.dr”Esman og Leth”, www.dr.dk/Podcast/A-G.htm.dk/Podcast/A-G.htm

Ill. 7:The

Ill. 7:The borderline between the very rich and borderline between the very rich and the very poor,the very poor, have a great potential for conflicts.

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dress

dress1212_{. This does not make people feel like they belong and therefore does not inspire a common}_{. This does not make people feel like they belong and therefore does not inspire a common}

responsibility for the area. In areas with no building codes, no regulations and no cadastral responsibility for the area. In areas with no building codes, no regulations and no cadastral num-ber, you can not own anything and there will be no legal consequences if somebody harms or ber, you can not own anything and there will be no legal consequences if somebody harms or takes your property.

takes your property.

Even if the city helped solve the deficiencies of the urban poor, it would be dealing with a rather Even if the city helped solve the deficiencies of the urban poor, it would be dealing with a rather difficult group. People with very little education and, after often two or three generations in the difficult group. People with very little education and, after often two or three generations in the highly dense slum, a strong sense of group mentality. Convincing these people to move to better highly dense slum, a strong sense of group mentality. Convincing these people to move to better standards is hard. Clean and open spaces often creates a feeling of xenophobia, because the standards is hard. Clean and open spaces often creates a feeling of xenophobia, because the dense, dirty areas are such a great part of there life. Further more it would

dense, dirty areas are such a great part of there life. Further more it would require massive inverequire massive invest- st-ments.

ments.

Housing

Slum dwellers in countries like Mozambique have Slum dwellers in countries like Mozambique have during the last 20 years made a great leap in during the last 20 years made a great leap in terms of improving their housing standards.

terms of improving their housing standards.1313 _The_The

move from thin straw walls, to concrete masonry, move from thin straw walls, to concrete masonry, changed many things:

changed many things: structure, durabilitystructure, durability, private, private security and removed the

security and removed the constant fear of fire.constant fear of fire. Afr

Africaican n sluslum m shesheltelters rs arare e oftoften en alialikeke. . Not Not be- be-cause of common family or social structures, but cause of common family or social structures, but because building materials are very similar. A because building materials are very similar. A typ-ical African slum dwelling is about 40 m2 and is ical African slum dwelling is about 40 m2 and is often used by the whole greater family. In the often used by the whole greater family. In the case of Maputo, Mozambique, the houses are case of Maputo, Mozambique, the houses are of-ten divided into rooms of 6 m2 and the average ten divided into rooms of 6 m2 and the average family size is about 5. Leaving less then a couple family size is about 5. Leaving less then a couple

12

12 United NaUnited Nation Human Settion Human Settlements Prtlements Program. 2003ogram. 2003

13

13 Source: Jørgen EskemSource: Jørgen Eskemoseose

Page 9 Page 9

Ill. 8:Plan and section of

Ill. 8:Plan and section of a typical slum dwelling in mozam-a typical slum dwelling in mozam-bique.

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of square meters per person

of square meters per person1414_{. Sometimes with a dividing pathway and constructed with a mono,}_{. Sometimes with a dividing pathway and constructed with a mono,}

one direction,

one direction, pitched roofpitched roof..

The most common wall construction is created The most common wall construction is created from a 150mm concrete brick(

from a 150mm concrete brick(Ill. 9Ill. 9), for external), for external wall

walls, s, and and 100mm concret100mm concrete e brick for brick for inteinternal.rnal.1515

The bricks are made of factory-produced cement The bricks are made of factory-produced cement and gravel or sand, found locally, for aggregate. and gravel or sand, found locally, for aggregate. The

The conconcrcretete e bribrickcks s are are fleflexibxible le in in the the builbuildindingg process and easily produced on the site. The process and easily produced on the site. The fact-ory produced cement requires a demanding and ory produced cement requires a demanding and costly preliminary work. Besides it has a costly preliminary work. Besides it has a signific-ant negative environmenta

ant negative environmental impact. l impact. As mentioned. As mentioned. it provides the it provides the dweller with security, structure,dweller with security, structure, durability and prevents against fire. The concrete block has, because of its density, a rather high durability and prevents against fire. The concrete block has, because of its density, a rather high heat absorption. The bricks are connected with mortar.

heat absorption. The bricks are connected with mortar.

Alternatively the walls can be created from the same iron Alternatively the walls can be created from the same iron sheets as used f

sheets as used for or roof constructroof construction, wooden boards or froion, wooden boards or fromm random waste. Also burned clay blocks and other masonry random waste. Also burned clay blocks and other masonry materials can be used. Choice depends

materials can be used. Choice depends on local materials, tra-on local materials, tra-ditions and income.

ditions and income.

The external walls are often left without any openings. If The external walls are often left without any openings. If there are openings, they are protected with bars. Glass are there are openings, they are protected with bars. Glass are rarely seen because of security related issues. The only opening is the door. An expensive but rarely seen because of security related issues. The only opening is the door. An expensive but se-cure door that when closed leaves the inside pitch dark. In general inhabitants in these buildings cure door that when closed leaves the inside pitch dark. In general inhabitants in these buildings do not care about

do not care about the darkness. Protecthe darkness. Protecting oneself against burglary and other crime has firting oneself against burglary and other crime has first pri-st pri-ority

ority1616_..

14 Source: Jørgen Eskemose 14 Source: Jørgen Eskemose 15 Source: Jørgen Eskemose 15 Source: Jørgen Eskemose

16

16 SourSource: Jørgce: Jørgen Esken Eskemoseemose

Ill. 9:Concretebricks are vastly used as a building material. Ill. 9:Concretebricks are vastly used as a building material. Photo: Eskemose

Photo: Eskemose

Ill. 10:Concrete bricks are to be constructed Ill. 10:Concrete bricks are to be constructed

on site. Photo: Eskemose on site. Photo: Eskemose

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It's not only the light, but also the indoor climate, that has It's not only the light, but also the indoor climate, that has second priority

second priority. In many places, all . In many places, all around the world, the around the world, the roof roof is almost always one layer of a corrugated iron sheet. The is almost always one layer of a corrugated iron sheet. The length of the sheet determines the width of the house. The length of the sheet determines the width of the house. The sheets is very cheap, easy to produce and

sheets is very cheap, easy to produce and sold on sold on every streetevery street co

cornerner r in in the the sluslum m citcitiesies. . SomSometietimes it mes it is is supsupportported ed witwithh lathes, sometimes it is left with stones on top to keep it in lathes, sometimes it is left with stones on top to keep it in place (

place (Ill. 12Ill. 12).).

The metal has a negative impact on the indoor The metal has a negative impact on the indoor climate. It conducts the heat, when it should climate. It conducts the heat, when it should pro-tect against it. Underneath the roof, temperature tect against it. Underneath the roof, temperature can reach 60°C in the middle of the day

can reach 60°C in the middle of the day1717_{. Often}_{. Often}

no space or openings are left open for ventilation. no space or openings are left open for ventilation. The heat, combined with indoor cooking, The heat, combined with indoor cooking, over-crowded sleeping facilities and no ventilation, crowded sleeping facilities and no ventilation, cre-ates a great potential for infections to be

ates a great potential for infections to be spread.spread.

Wa

Water and

ter and sanitation

sanitation

Travelling through India by train gives a great Travelling through India by train gives a great im-pre

pressission on of of the the dimdimensension ion of of the the prprobleoblem. m. FoForr lack of better sanitation facilities people often

lack of better sanitation facilities people often useuse

the “no man's land” along the rail tracks for toilet the “no man's land” along the rail tracks for toilet purposes.

purposes. The

The levlevel el of of sansanitaitatiotion n is is difdiffefererent nt frfrom om com com--munity to comcom--munity. Often it depends on the munity to community. Often it depends on the local community leaders engagement, local local community leaders engagement, local initiat-ive

ives s or or a a NGONGO´s ´s loclocal al assassististancance. e. HarHardly dly nevneverer does the the toilet facilities do

does the the toilet facilities do not connect to the official not connect to the official sewer systsewer system. Sometimes, in a few interem. Sometimes, in a few

inter--17

17 Source: Jørgen EskemSource: Jørgen Eskemoseose

Page 11 Page 11

Ill. 13:Mumbai. The no-mans land between tracks and Ill. 13:Mumbai. The no-mans land between tracks and

hous-ing are often used as toilets. Pho

ing are often used as toilets. Pho to from Mumbai.to from Mumbai. Ill. 12:Corr

Ill. 12:Corrugated iron sheets holded down ugated iron sheets holded down by stones and by stones and cartires. Also wall construction executed in corrugated iron cartires. Also wall construction executed in corrugated iron sheets. Photo from Soweto, Johannesburg.

sheets. Photo from Soweto, Johannesburg. Ill. 11:Concrete bricks in constructions.

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esting cases, “islands” of toilet blocks have been executed for common use. In those cases, esting cases, “islands” of toilet blocks have been executed for common use. In those cases, con-nection to municipality

nection to municipality sewer line, has often sewer line, has often been executbeen executed.ed. As already mentioned, water is almost always

As already mentioned, water is almost always in-accessible for the poor. In most cases the water accessible for the poor. In most cases the water fa

facilcilitiities es arare e loclocatated ed fafar r frfrom om whewhere re thethey y araree needed. Sometimes water are only available few needed. Sometimes water are only available few hours a day. This forces people, mostly women, to hours a day. This forces people, mostly women, to spend hours daily to bring water. Time that would spend hours daily to bring water. Time that would have been much better spend with their families have been much better spend with their families or at jobs.

or at jobs.

In many cases there is no clean water. The wells In many cases there is no clean water. The wells can be poisoned or polluted or simple dried out can be poisoned or polluted or simple dried out because of low ground water. If the water supply because of low ground water. If the water supply is connected to the local sewer line, the piping is connected to the local sewer line, the piping can be poor or

can be poor or the quality of the quality of the water bad. In cases of inaccessible water supplies, people have tothe water bad. In cases of inaccessible water supplies, people have to cope with surface water only.

cope with surface water only.

Without clean water and descent toilet facilities, Without clean water and descent toilet facilities, diseases, bacteria and viruses can spread easily, diseases, bacteria and viruses can spread easily, especially in hot areas. Often there is only little especially in hot areas. Often there is only little awareness of basic hygiene. Simple hand washing awareness of basic hygiene. Simple hand washing would make a giant leap in terms of improving would make a giant leap in terms of improving hy-giene.

giene.

It is estimated that 2.5 billion people live without It is estimated that 2.5 billion people live without proper water or sanitation in the world

proper water or sanitation in the world1818_..

Ill. 14:A hole in

Ill. 14:A hole in the ground used for toilet purpose. Photothe ground used for toilet purpose. Photo from Mumbai.

from Mumbai.

I

Illll. . 15:15:WWomomen en quequeuinuing g to to geget t wawateter r at at a a wewellll. . PhoPhoto:to: Eskemose.

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Describing the

Describing the UN-HABIT

UN-HABITA

AT definition

T definition of “adequate housing

of “adequate housing””

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN–HABITAT) is the United nations agency The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN–HABITAT) is the United nations agency for human settlements. Its mandate is to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns for human settlements. Its mandate is to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of

and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all.providing adequate shelter for all.

As a part of the UN defined “millennium development goals”, the UN-Habitat is working to As a part of the UN defined “millennium development goals”, the UN-Habitat is working to “halve, by 2015, the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and “halve, by 2015, the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation

basic sanitation1919_{” and “have achieved, by 2020, a significant improvement in the lives of at least}_{” and “have achieved, by 2020, a significant improvement in the lives of at least}

100 million slum

100 million slum dwellers”dwellers”2020_..

Central for the UN-HABITAT is characterizing the personal relation to adequate housing as a Central for the UN-HABITAT is characterizing the personal relation to adequate housing as a “right”. This element has been adopted by all UN members in the habitat agenda. The agenda “right”. This element has been adopted by all UN members in the habitat agenda. The agenda defines “adequate shelter” as “more then just a roof over one´s head. Adequate shelter also defines “adequate shelter” as “more then just a roof over one´s head. Adequate shelter also means adequate privacy, adequate space, physical accessibility

means adequate privacy, adequate space, physical accessibility, adequate , adequate securitysecurity, security , security of ten-of ten-ure, structural stability and durability, adequate lightning, heating and ventilation; adequate basic ure, structural stability and durability, adequate lightning, heating and ventilation; adequate basic infrastructure, such as water supply, sanitation and waste management facilities, sustainable infrastructure, such as water supply, sanitation and waste management facilities, sustainable en-vironmental quality and health- related factors and adequate and accessible location with regard vironmental quality and health- related factors and adequate and accessible location with regard to work and b

to work and basic facilities; all of asic facilities; all of which should be which should be available at an affordable cost.available at an affordable cost.””2121

Since this dissertation is about issues relevant for constructing architecture, the following terms Since this dissertation is about issues relevant for constructing architecture, the following terms will be fundame

will be fundamental fntal for or the assignment:the assignment: 1.

1. “a“adedequaquate sete secucuririty”ty”,, 2.

2. “s“structutructural ral stabstability ility and and duradurability”bility”,, 3.

3. “a“adedequaquate lite lighghtntning”ing”,, 4.

4. “he“heatating aing and vnd vententilailatiotion”n”, and, and 5.

5. “w“watater suer supply apply and sand sanitnitatiation”on”,,

. The terms “waste management” and “heating” carry less relevance. The professor at the . The terms “waste management” and “heating” carry less relevance. The professor at the Copenhagen school of architecture, Jørgen Eskemose, has experience in working with upgrading Copenhagen school of architecture, Jørgen Eskemose, has experience in working with upgrading

19

19 United United Nation Nation Human SeHuman Settlements ttlements Program. Program. 20032003

20

20 United NaUnited Nation Human Settion Human Settlements Protlements Program. 2003gram. 2003 21

21 United NaUnited Nation Human Settion Human Settlements Prtlements Program. 2003:ogram. 2003:

Page 13 Page 13

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slums over decades. According to him only a few per cent of the urban poor have problems with slums over decades. According to him only a few per cent of the urban poor have problems with heating, therefore heating is not a problem with dealing with. Neither are waste management. heating, therefore heating is not a problem with dealing with. Neither are waste management. Since people are poor they do

Since people are poor they do not produce very much waste, and what they produce they reuse.not produce very much waste, and what they produce they reuse. The term “security of tenure” is, in my perception too peripheral for a constructing architect, to The term “security of tenure” is, in my perception too peripheral for a constructing architect, to deal with.

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Discussion – Upgrading of today

Housing construction

“Warm humid regions” and “dry hot regions” “Warm humid regions” and “dry hot regions”

Establishing a decent lightning and indoor climate in the slum, without compromising security is Establishing a decent lightning and indoor climate in the slum, without compromising security is possible. Doing the same with a small, relative increase in expenses and no help from electrical possible. Doing the same with a small, relative increase in expenses and no help from electrical suppliers is a little harder, but feasible. Sometimes it does not even mean an increase in money, suppliers is a little harder, but feasible. Sometimes it does not even mean an increase in money, but is only

but is only a matter of understanding basic building physics.a matter of understanding basic building physics.

Slum areas are all different geographically and vary all in their climate. Generally speaking, slum Slum areas are all different geographically and vary all in their climate. Generally speaking, slum areas can be divided into two categories: hot dry regions and warm humid regions

areas can be divided into two categories: hot dry regions and warm humid regions 2222_{. The principal}_{. The principal}

elements that should be taken into consideration when examining an area, are: solar radiation, air elements that should be taken into consideration when examining an area, are: solar radiation, air temperature, relatively humidity

temperature, relatively humidity, rainfall and , rainfall and wind.wind.

Hot dry regions:

Hot dry regions: Defined by very hot days and a remarkable decrease in temperature duringDefined by very hot days and a remarkable decrease in temperature during night. The basic aim for the building is to protect against the solar radiation and heat transfer night. The basic aim for the building is to protect against the solar radiation and heat transfer dur-ing the day

ing the day. The building should, if p. The building should, if possible, store the heat, to release it during night.ossible, store the heat, to release it during night.

Warm humid regions:

Warm humid regions: Defined by a high humidity and high temperature during night and day. AsDefined by a high humidity and high temperature during night and day. As a consequence, the building can not cool down during night. The aim is in this part of the world to a consequence, the building can not cool down during night. The aim is in this part of the world to 22

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Slum upgrading, on microlevel in

Slum upgrading, on microlevel in a global perspectivea global perspective Dissertation, Copenhagen Technical Academy Dissertation, Copenhagen Technical Academy Autumn 2009 Autumn 2009 Troels Vejby, 7I Troels Vejby, 7I

reduce heat storage and improve air movement. reduce heat storage and improve air movement.

Since the slum mostly is emerging on the southern hemisphere, the highest amount of solar Since the slum mostly is emerging on the southern hemisphere, the highest amount of solar radi-ation is towards north (compared to south as

ation is towards north (compared to south as in Denmark).in Denmark).

Ventilation through roof construction Ventilation through roof construction

The strongest thermal impact will occur across the roof, as it receives the greatest amount of The strongest thermal impact will occur across the roof, as it receives the greatest amount of sol-ar radiation and is the most difficult to protect. The easiest solution is a mono pitched composite ar radiation and is the most difficult to protect. The easiest solution is a mono pitched composite roof. The roof is executed with a ventilated cavity between ceiling and roof, and enough overlap roof. The roof is executed with a ventilated cavity between ceiling and roof, and enough overlap from external wall to end roof to protect against rain. Depending on geographical placement, a from external wall to end roof to protect against rain. Depending on geographical placement, a overlap of 200 to 400mm should be enough. Various other solutions of a higher technological overlap of 200 to 400mm should be enough. Various other solutions of a higher technological standard are of course available. But it is important to stress that the complexity of many of these standard are of course available. But it is important to stress that the complexity of many of these solutions would be impossible or too costly to implement in areas such as these.

solutions would be impossible or too costly to implement in areas such as these. The direction of the roof pitch, should be

The direction of the roof pitch, should be considered. To minimize the solar radiation considered. To minimize the solar radiation on

on the roofthe roof, , the pitch the pitch should point towardshould point towardss south. In some cases, where the roof are south. In some cases, where the roof are well ventilated and the external walls are well ventilated and the external walls are constructed poor, the roof pitch can point constructed poor, the roof pitch can point north.

north.

In the warm humid areas, the roof In the warm humid areas, the roof con-struction should first of all protect against struction should first of all protect against th

the e susun. n. BuBut t alalso so veventntililatate e anand d crcreaeate te aa proper air movement inside the house. By proper air movement inside the house. By using a air penetrable material, such as using a air penetrable material, such as per-forated plywood in the ceiling the forated plywood in the ceiling the compos-ite roof can play a greater role in a total ite roof can play a greater role in a total housing ventilation. A cheap version would housing ventilation. A cheap version would be using fabric or perforated plastic instead be using fabric or perforated plastic instead

Page 17 Page 17

Ill. 17:Ventilation in hot dry areas. The ventilation in the composite Ill. 17:Ventilation in hot dry areas. The ventilation in the composite

roof and the walls are separated. roof and the walls are separated.

Ill. 16:Ventilation in hot dry areas. The composite roof and the walls Ill. 16:Ventilation in hot dry areas. The composite roof and the walls

are integrated in a overall ventilation system. are integrated in a overall ventilation system.

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of plywood. This has some of the same qualities, of plywood. This has some of the same qualities, although it can be argued that it has a larger life although it can be argued that it has a larger life cycle cost.

cycle cost.

In the hot dry areas the composite roof can be a In the hot dry areas the composite roof can be a so

solutlution ion as as wewellll. . BuBut t sisincnce e it it gegets ts cocold ld durduringing night, it will be necessary to limit the heat loss. By night, it will be necessary to limit the heat loss. By using ordinary plywood (not perforated), the roof using ordinary plywood (not perforated), the roof can be

can be constconstantly ventantly ventilatilated. But ed. But it will not it will not be in-be in-tegrated in a overall ventilation and will therefore tegrated in a overall ventilation and will therefore help limit the heat loss during night.

help limit the heat loss during night.

If wooden boards are not available, two layers of corrugated iron sheets can also create a If wooden boards are not available, two layers of corrugated iron sheets can also create a com-posite roof. If all these solutions are too expensive. Small ventilation shafts, or air tunnels, can be posite roof. If all these solutions are too expensive. Small ventilation shafts, or air tunnels, can be created in the top of the wall.

created in the top of the wall. Al

Alteternrnatativivelely y roroofofing ing cacan n be be exexececututed ed in in ththee sa

same me mamattereriaial l as as ththe e eextxterernanal l wawallll. . AnAncicienentt Midd

Middle le EasEast t builbuilding ding metmethodhods s preprescrscribe ibe a a roroof of con

constrstructuctionions, s, dondone e witwith h a a rourounded nded or or curvcurveded shape.

shape. By usinBy using the roundeg the rounded shape, the sold shape, the solar ra-ar ra-diator decreases to a minimum. Since the roof diator decreases to a minimum. Since the roof construction are executed in materials of a high construction are executed in materials of a high den

densisityty, , ththe e ababsosorberbency ncy anand d heaheat t ststororagage e in- in-cr

creaeasesses. . ThiThis s tetechnchniquique e rereququirires es a a rarathther er de- de-veloped know-how

veloped know-how, but, if using cheap , but, if using cheap basic materials, not more expensive then the metal boards.basic materials, not more expensive then the metal boards. If using clay, the rounded roof sets high

If using clay, the rounded roof sets high requirements to the surfaces treatment, to requirements to the surfaces treatment, to protect againstprotect against rain and wind (see the adobe chapter)

rain and wind (see the adobe chapter)2323_..

Using the wall and the floor

Using the wall and the floor for ventilafor ventilation and lighttion and light

Using the composite roof system, as part of a total housing ventilation, requires other entrances Using the composite roof system, as part of a total housing ventilation, requires other entrances

23

23 Byggeriets udviklingsråd. 1993Byggeriets udviklingsråd. 1993

Ill. 19:Rounded roofing constructing minimize the solar Ill. 19:Rounded roofing constructing minimize the solar

radi-ation. Adobe construction. ation. Adobe construction.

Ill. 18:Pvc pipe, max 120mm, used for light and air tunnels. Ill. 18:Pvc pipe, max 120mm, used for light and air tunnels.

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for the incoming air. These holes could also be used for the incoming light. The holes have to be for the incoming air. These holes could also be used for the incoming light. The holes have to be constructed so, that thieves, including kids, and insects can not enter. By using PVC or concrete constructed so, that thieves, including kids, and insects can not enter. By using PVC or concrete pipes, diameter 120mm or smaller with insect screens, the light and air can enter through the pipes, diameter 120mm or smaller with insect screens, the light and air can enter through the tun-nels. The majority of ventilation shafts should be placed in southern façade, were the impact of nels. The majority of ventilation shafts should be placed in southern façade, were the impact of the sun is lowest. To optimize the ventilation, the shafts they should be placed as low as possible. the sun is lowest. To optimize the ventilation, the shafts they should be placed as low as possible. The lower the shafts get, the colder the air are and the longer the air has to travel to get out. The The lower the shafts get, the colder the air are and the longer the air has to travel to get out. The opposite goes for the lightning canals. The higher they are placed the more useful are the opposite goes for the lightning canals. The higher they are placed the more useful are the incom-ing light. By usincom-ing relatively long pipes the direct sun will be excluded and the indirect light can ing light. By using relatively long pipes the direct sun will be excluded and the indirect light can enter.

enter.

A combination of very low and very high placed tunnels are therefore recommended. The low for A combination of very low and very high placed tunnels are therefore recommended. The low for the incoming air and the top ones for light and outgoing air(

the incoming air and the top ones for light and outgoing air( Ill. 16Ill. 16).).

Improving building materials Improving building materials

Most housing is made

Most housing is made of concrete bricks masonry in slum-cities today. It is a popular building ma-of concrete bricks masonry in slum-cities today. It is a popular building ma-terial popular because; they the easy to use for inexperienced house-builders, they are produced terial popular because; they the easy to use for inexperienced house-builders, they are produced loca

locallylly, and , and they provithey provide both de both secursecurity and structuraity and structural stabilitl stability y to the to the dweldwelling. But it is ling. But it is neitheneitherr cheap or sustainable.

cheap or sustainable.

Finding an alternative to the concrete bricks is big challenge. First of all criteria for a successful Finding an alternative to the concrete bricks is big challenge. First of all criteria for a successful material is needed. A successfully material should be: affordable, sustainable, flexible and provide material is needed. A successfully material should be: affordable, sustainable, flexible and provide security and

security and structural stabilitystructural stability..

Wood

Wood is properly one of the best materials to Wood is properly one of the best materials to build from. But it can also be one of the worst. build from. But it can also be one of the worst. Great because it is sustainable. Bad because it can Great because it is sustainable. Bad because it can re

resusult lt in in dedefoforereststatatioion n anand d exexpapandnding ing of of ththee desert.

desert.

The best scenario would be using wood from The best scenario would be using wood from areas where new trees are planted, when others areas where new trees are planted, when others are fell. Trees that gowns fast and straight, are fell. Trees that gowns fast and straight,

simil-Page 19 Page 19

Ill. 20:Ill. 17:The

Ill. 20:Ill. 17:The south american organissouth american organisation "Un ation "Un techotecho para pais" making house of wood. Photo: “Un techo para mi para pais" making house of wood. Photo: “Un techo para mi pais”

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arly to our pine trees. This could create a building industry that is CO2 neutral and secure a lot of arly to our pine trees. This could create a building industry that is CO2 neutral and secure a lot of jobs. Especially in counties like Brazil, where logistics based on illegal logging, that threatens the jobs. Especially in counties like Brazil, where logistics based on illegal logging, that threatens the existence of the rainforest. A restructuring of the forest industry in this area could prove very existence of the rainforest. A restructuring of the forest industry in this area could prove very pos-itive.

itive.

If no such structure is in place, and the If no such structure is in place, and the trans-portation and cutting up of the wood requires portation and cutting up of the wood requires massive amount of preliminary work, then it is a massive amount of preliminary work, then it is a very bad building material.

very bad building material.

Successful projects have been carried out with Successful projects have been carried out with wo

woodod. . The The SoSoututh h AmAmeriericacan n ororgaganinisasatition on “Un“Un techo para mi pais” (“A roof for my country”) have techo para mi pais” (“A roof for my country”) have executed no less then 42.000 transitional houses executed no less then 42.000 transitional houses in 15 South American counties. The transitional in 15 South American counties. The transitional houses are made of wood and are designed to be houses are made of wood and are designed to be

low-cost, easy to construct and mobile. A typical house is 18 m2 (6x3) in size and costs low-cost, easy to construct and mobile. A typical house is 18 m2 (6x3) in size and costs approxim-ately US $1,500, of which the beneficiary family contributes 10 percent. It is built in two days by a ately US $1,500, of which the beneficiary family contributes 10 percent. It is built in two days by a team of eight to

team of eight to ten volunteers working alongside the beneficiary ten volunteers working alongside the beneficiary familyfamily2424_..

Adobe

Using sunburned clay for building material is a Using sunburned clay for building material is a ancient method. Recently the tradition was widely ancient method. Recently the tradition was widely spread all over the world, and are still used in spread all over the world, and are still used in some parts.

some parts.

In Denmark it was used to half timbered houses In Denmark it was used to half timbered houses until the second world

until the second world warwar. The Danish . The Danish productionproduction of burned clay bricks are somehow similar to the of burned clay bricks are somehow similar to the adobe methods. Instead of using the sun for adobe methods. Instead of using the sun for dry-ing, the clay would be burnt in a kiln. This makes ing, the clay would be burnt in a kiln. This makes

24

24 http://wwwhttp://www.untechoparam.untechoparamipais.org/ipais.org/

Ill. 21:Housing construction in wood. Photo:”Un techo para Ill. 21:Housing construction in wood. Photo:”Un techo para

mi pais” mi pais”

Ill. 22:Industrialized adobe production. Photo: Ill. 22:Industrialized adobe production. Photo:

eartharchitec-ture.org ture.org

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the brick more durable, but it is also a more costly method than using the

the brick more durable, but it is also a more costly method than using the sun for drying.sun for drying. Because the clay is

Because the clay is very easy to get hold of, It is avery easy to get hold of, It is a very easy basic material to

very easy basic material to get hold of. Tget hold of. To use o use it asit as a building material, one only need low technology a building material, one only need low technology methods. This can open up for varies local methods. This can open up for varies local suppli-er

ers s anand d cacan n crcreaeate te smsmalall, l, nenew w ininduduststriries. es. TheThe abode bricks are shaped to a small square and left abode bricks are shaped to a small square and left to dry in the sun. It can also be shaped in the to dry in the sun. It can also be shaped in the hand and build while it still carries vapour, but hand and build while it still carries vapour, but then the construction will scrimp while drying. then the construction will scrimp while drying.

To improve the durability and the structure, straw or other fibres can be added before drying. To improve the durability and the structure, straw or other fibres can be added before drying. The mix should carry at least 15-25 per cent of clay and straw around 20-30 per cent, in pieces of The mix should carry at least 15-25 per cent of clay and straw around 20-30 per cent, in pieces of maximum 5cm. Other materials, such as concrete or bitumen can be added to create a more maximum 5cm. Other materials, such as concrete or bitumen can be added to create a more flex-ible or durable stone

ible or durable stone2525_..

Clay can be used in multiple storey buildings and is therefore usable in denser cities too. A great Clay can be used in multiple storey buildings and is therefore usable in denser cities too. A great example of this what have been b

example of this what have been build in Yemenuild in Yemen2626_..

25

26

Page 21 Page 21

Ill. 23:Multible adob

Ill. 23:Multible adob econstructions in yemen.econstructions in yemen.

Ill. 24:Adobeconstruction in Brazil. Ill. 24:Adobeconstruction in Brazil.

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T

To prevent that the o prevent that the clay get washed away by the rain, a surface mixture cover by clay get washed away by the rain, a surface mixture cover by lime and sand lime and sand oror lime, cement and sand, depending on the durability, can be added. Like we know it from plaster. lime, cement and sand, depending on the durability, can be added. Like we know it from plaster. Afterwards lime, combined with various colours, can be used as a very beautiful and very cheap Afterwards lime, combined with various colours, can be used as a very beautiful and very cheap paint. This could add a charm to the of

paint. This could add a charm to the often depressing neighbourhoods.ten depressing neighbourhoods.

Although the adobe technology have been used since the ancient time, the general know-how in Although the adobe technology have been used since the ancient time, the general know-how in this area is not that great. But often people would only have to look a few generations back to this area is not that great. But often people would only have to look a few generations back to re-trieve the traditions. This could make the technology easy to re-implement.

trieve the traditions. This could make the technology easy to re-implement.

Bricks by wastepaper

Various projects have been carried out by using Various projects have been carried out by using waste paper as aggregat

waste paper as aggregate in cement e in cement bricks. Laid asbricks. Laid as normal concrete bricks, they have proved capable normal concrete bricks, they have proved capable for one storey housing constructions, what most for one storey housing constructions, what most slum cities are build in.

slum cities are build in.

They can solve the problems of getting rid of They can solve the problems of getting rid of pa-per waste. But as they still are cement based, they per waste. But as they still are cement based, they are expensive and not a sustainable solution. are expensive and not a sustainable solution.

Acc

Accordording ing to to fafaststeninening g of of winwindowdows s and and doodoorsrs,, the

they y hahave ve the the samsame e proproperpertieties s as as conconcrecrete, aste, as

they are to be screwed in. Ventilation and light tunnels are integrated similar as in concrete they are to be screwed in. Ventilation and light tunnels are integrated similar as in concrete blocks

blocks2727_..

In cases where alternatives is not reachable and paper waste is overwhelming, this could be a In cases where alternatives is not reachable and paper waste is overwhelming, this could be a possible method. But in most cases poor people do not produce very much paper waste or any possible method. But in most cases poor people do not produce very much paper waste or any waste at all

waste at all2828_..

27

27 ByggByggerieteriets udviklingss udviklingsråd. 1993råd. 1993

Ill. 25:Brick by wastepaper. Photo: Mads Kristiansen. Ill. 25:Brick by wastepaper. Photo: Mads Kristiansen.

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Plastic bottles as masonry

The “United Bottle” project by Instant Architects The “United Bottle” project by Instant Architects solve a two folded demand in emergency solve a two folded demand in emergency situ-ations. The demand of water and shelter. The ations. The demand of water and shelter. The wa-ter bottle is designed so that it, afwa-ter being ter bottle is designed so that it, after being emp-tied for water, can be filled with gravel or sand tied for water, can be filled with gravel or sand and used as a brick for walls and roofs. Since the and used as a brick for walls and roofs. Since the bottle construction does not create a waterproof bottle construction does not create a waterproof roof, a plastic tarpaulin must be tightened up on roof, a plastic tarpaulin must be tightened up on the roof construction.

the roof construction.

There have been no real experiments with the There have been no real experiments with the “United bottle”. So weather the plastic can resist “United bottle”. So weather the plastic can resist the impact of the sun is not known. Also there is the impact of the sun is not known. Also there is no solution for how to fasten doors; screws does no solution for how to fasten doors; screws does

not seem like an option. Since the construction are not windproof, it will be self ventilating

not seem like an option. Since the construction are not windproof, it will be self ventilating 2929_..

Neither does flooring or foundation seem

Neither does flooring or foundation seem to have a prober solution.to have a prober solution. It does not seem like the United b

It does not seem like the United bottle projects can be a solution to scale.ottle projects can be a solution to scale.

ecoBUILD

The South African architectural office MMA won The South African architectural office MMA won the

the ““curcurry ry ststone one foufoundandatiotion n priprize” ze” 20082008, , witwithh their interpretation of the ecoBUILD system. The their interpretation of the ecoBUILD system. The assignment was to built low income housing in assignment was to built low income housing in the dimens

the dimension 10x10 metion 10x10 meters. Thers. The ecoBUILe ecoBUILD D sys- sys-tem, are created from sandbags, executed in a tem, are created from sandbags, executed in a aluminium and timber frame construction

aluminium and timber frame construction3030_..

The

The builbuildinding g sysyststem em begibegins ns witwith h conconvenventiotionalnal

29

29 http:http://w//wwwww.un.united-bited-bottleottle.org/.org/

Page 23 Page 23

Ill. 27:Sandbags cre

Ill. 27:Sandbags create the ate the filling and filling and aluminiualuminium the m the super super-- structure in ecoBUILD. Photo: ecoBUILD..

structure in ecoBUILD. Photo: ecoBUILD.. Il

Ill. l. 26:H26:Housousing ing conconstrstructuction ion frfrom om UniUnited ted bottbottle. le. PhotPhoto:o: United Bottle.

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concrete footings and foundation brickwork, or with sand bagged footings depending on local concrete footings and foundation brickwork, or with sand bagged footings depending on local to-pography and founding material. The floor may be conventional concrete, or sand bagged with pography and founding material. The floor may be conventional concrete, or sand bagged with screed over

screed over, or timber fl, or timber floor boards on timber oor boards on timber joists.joists. The superstructure is built in a timber

The superstructure is built in a timber frame con-frame con-struction and consists of vertical beams struction and consists of vertical beams approxim-ately one meter apart to form the stud work with ately one meter apart to form the stud work with sand bags roughly 300x200x100mm packed neatly sand bags roughly 300x200x100mm packed neatly in between. The external and internal wall in between. The external and internal wall sur-faces are clad with plaster or planks laid ship-lap. faces are clad with plaster or planks laid ship-lap. The

The comcomplepleted ted wawall ll sysyststem, em, proprovidviding ing acoacoustusticic and thermal insulation, wind and impact and thermal insulation, wind and impact resist-ance. Window and door frames are incorporated ance. Window and door frames are incorporated as in conventional timber frame building, and the as in conventional timber frame building, and the roof construction may be of beams and rafters or roof construction may be of beams and rafters or truss

trusses es supporsupporting sheeting or ting sheeting or tiles. Accordintiles. According g toto the suppliers directions, the wall are both fire the suppliers directions, the wall are both fire res-istant (dos

istant (dos not say how not say how much) much) and bullet proof and bullet proof 3131_..

Construction can take place at locations to which Construction can take place at locations to which roa

road d acceaccess ss or or eleelectrctriciticity y is is not not proprovidvided, ed, onlonlyy minimal amounts of water and cement are minimal amounts of water and cement are re-quired. 1500 bags fit into the boot of a small car quired. 1500 bags fit into the boot of a small car and weigh only a few kilograms(

and weigh only a few kilograms( Ill. 29Ill. 29). This is the). This is the equiva

equivalent of 3000 lent of 3000 brickbricks over the s over the same area in asame area in a cavity wall

cavity wall3232_..

The only "wet" trade required is the plasterer. The only "wet" trade required is the plasterer. The plaster adheres easily to the sandbags and The plaster adheres easily to the sandbags and chicken wire that covers the walls. The ecobags chicken wire that covers the walls. The ecobags

30

30 http://wwwhttp://www.ecobuildtechnologies.c.ecobuildtechnologies.com/products.htm#bagom/products.htm#bag 31

31 http://wwwhttp://www.ecobuildtechnologies.c.ecobuildtechnologies.com/products.htm#bagom/products.htm#bag

Ill. 29:Bags can easily be transported to site site. Photo: Ill. 29:Bags can easily be transported to site site. Photo: eco- BUILD.

BUILD.

Ill. 28:Vertacal section of the ecoBUILD structure. Drawing: Ill. 28:Vertacal section of the ecoBUILD structure. Drawing:

ecoBUILD. ecoBUILD.