In the vast tapestry of nature's offerings, bamboo stands as an extraordinary marvel despite being considered a “poor man’s material” in the Philippines. With its versatility and countless applications, it possesses a remarkable combination of strength, flexibility, and sustainability that has captivated human ingenuity throughout history.
Known for its inherent properties and versatility, bamboo has slowly emerged as an efficient and intelligent choice for construction project development services. What used to be a seemingly unassuming plant is now widely used as an alternative building technology due to its durability and comprehensive strength. This wondrous plant has the power to reshape the architectural landscape, paving the way toward a more sustainable future.
The Poor Man’s Material
With the goal to turn what once was referred to as “the poor man’s material” into a sustainable building material, BASE Innovation Center (BIC), the socialized housing group Base Bahay Foundation, Inc., was founded to lead the country’s research and development efforts on bamboo.
Luis Felipe Munoz, Base Bahay’s head of technology, emphasizes how bamboo is an ideal material as it is freely available in the Philippines and grows faster than any other type of wood, which could lessen building costs. Maricen Jalandoni, president of the foundation, also wants to prove that bamboo can be just as durable as any construction material when used properly and with the right technology.
According to Mr. Lopez, cement-bamboo frame technology (CBFT) is also disaster-resilient, making it the perfect choice for a disaster-prone country like the Philippines.
Base Bahay Foundation has successfully built over 1,500 homes nationwide with their esteemed local partners. They have also successfully trained more than 300 civil engineers and architects on utilizing bamboo in construction. The foundation looks forward to building 10,000 cement bamboo houses by 2024 to address the pressing need for affordable and secure homes in disaster-prone areas in the country.
The Wonders of Bamboo
Bamboo has slowly become popular as a construction material due to its versatility. Unlike other materials like steel and timber, it can be easily harvested and cultivated, making it a perfectly sustainable and durable option for construction firms. Its tensile and comprehensive strength can resist up to 10 to 15 tons of compression, and it’s also pest-resistant if treated and used properly.
Due to its fast growth rate and low maintenance requirements, bamboo is also very cost-efficient. This economic efficiency arises from the minimal inputs required for bamboo cultivation and its ability to undergo processing using straightforward techniques. Moreover, the lightweight nature of bamboo, coupled with its wide availability across various regions, contributes to reduced transportation costs for bamboo products.
Moreover, it is also very flexible, not only in its nature but also in functionality. Bamboo can be used as an alternative material for floorings, tilings, paneling, interior aesthetics, furniture, etc. Truly, there is no denying that bamboo is the future of sustainable construction.
From Humble Beginnings to Sustainable Brilliance
Bamboo transcends its humble origins as a “poor man’s material” and emerges as a brilliant solution for sustainable construction. Its inherent strength, flexibility, and sustainability have captivated human ingenuity, transforming it into an intelligent choice for construction management firms. It has been harnessed to reshape the architectural landscape and pave the way for a more sustainable future through the help of local foundations like Base Bahay Foundation, Inc.
As we continue to explore innovative solutions for a greener future, bamboo stands tall as a testament to nature's ingenuity. It is not merely a construction material but a symbol of harmony between humans and Mother Earth. Embracing the brilliance of bamboo is an investment in a future that values resilience, affordability, and environmental stewardship.
As a WELL, BERDE, and LEED consultant in the Philippines, JCVA is at the forefront of the sustainable construction movement in the country. Ready to build better and greener businesses? Email us at info@jcvassociates.ph or visit www.jcvassociates.ph/well-leed-berde-consultancy to learn more about our sustainable construction services.
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