Low-cost housing in underdeveloped countries : simple strategies for a more sustainable construction

Abstract

This paper pretend to show how simple intervention strategies, using minimal resources, can be applied to low-cost residential buildings in underdeveloped countries in order to reduce environmental impact. Malawi was chosen as a case study, consequence of a research project conducted at the University of Minho (Portugal), in partnership with a construction company. On a visit to Malawi some low-cost houses were analyzed and functional and environmental problems were detected. Proposed strategies were based on the optimization of the constructive system. One problem found was associated with the burning of bricks for construction; thus it was proposed to replace these by Compressed Earth Blocks. Another problem was related with the lack of acoustic and thermal insulation on roofs, composed of a single metal sheet. It was proposed to build a false ceiling with local straw and cardboard as insulation, under ventilated attic.