1. Overview and Significance of Session
Sustainable Architecture
Sustainable Architecture or Green Architecture is an architectural design approach or philosophy that aims to minimize negative impacts on the environment. Green Architecture promotes efficiency or moderation in the use of energy, building materials, and other resources in the design of the built environment. It deals mainly with the following:
o Sustainable Energy Use,
o Resource and Waste Management; and
o Sustainable Building Materials.
Sustainable Building Materials
Conventional building materials are often sourced and utilized based on demand, supply, and international market forces. Wood was a favored building material in the Philippines until the mid-20th century because of its availability and relative affordability. Increased demand of hardwoods as a building material and poor forest management (uncontrolled logging and inadequate reforestation programs) led to shortage and eventual logging ban by the end of the 20th century. Other indigenous materials (e.g. nipa, bamboo, rattan) have also been traditionally used for vernacular architecture but have somehow never evolved or been widely accepted outside of their generally rural use.
Building materials that are considered sustainable include sustainably harvested woods, bamboo (a strong and fast-growing grass with wood-like properties), waste materials such as rice husk/straw that are pressed into panels, rammed earth, and clay. The recycling of materials is also encouraged wherein materials (e.g. old tires, plastics, bottles) are reused for new applications in the construction of a building. Building materials recovered or “reclaimed” from dismantled old buildings is also a widely accepted practice extending the use of woods, stones, etc.
Manufacturing “Home-grown” Building Materials
Manufacturers who subscribe to sustainable technologies also strive to process and manufacture products using as little energy or resources as possible. Building materials today are examined not only in the manner of its fabrication but also in the packaging and delivery of the final product. Hence, it is always preferred that materials are sourced close to the location of the construction. It is advantageous to the country and more beneficial for the environment if building materials are manufactured locally.
The Philippines has a projected 3.6 million housing backlog by 2016. For many Filipino households, owning a house has remained an elusive dream because of the high cost and the inability to pay for it. The housing backlog should be viewed as a challenge to Architects to design more affordable housing and for manufacturers to develop sustainable materials that are less costly. The construction industry and the production of high quality sustainable building materials both have the added value of providing employment and livelihood opportunities for thousands of Filipinos.
2. Outline of Sessions (Part I)
a. Introduction by Arch. Michael V. Tomeldan (UP College of Architecture): Introduction to the Panel Discussion (dialogue), issues, proposed topics, and presenters (20 minutes)
b. Bamboo in Architecture by Arch. Ning Encarnacion: Applications of bamboo in architecture (20 minutes)
c. The Future of Bamboo as a Building Material by Department of Forestry, Department of Science and Technology (TBA): Beyond the Bahay Kubo… Gusaling Kawayan? Propagation of Bamboo and other indigenous building materials (20 minutes)
d. Rice Husks Panel Boards by Arch. Nestor David: Experiences in the manufacturing and utilization of the building material; Challenges in convincing its use (20 minutes)
e. Panel Discussion Discussion of 3 Panelists, (30 minutes)
1st Panel Discussion requires moderator 1, Audience can participate