Page 29 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 33
P. 29
The Environment
energy consumption.
Simulations are also being Old Wisdom, New
incorporated to optimize
energy efficiency without Solutions: How
compromising comfort.
Traditional Building
Why It Matters: With the
rising energy demands of Methods Are
modern cities, passive climate
control reduces dependency Shaping Modern
on non-renewable energy
sources, making our homes Sustainability
and commercial spaces more
resilient and energy-efficient. RONALD MBIU, NAIROBI, KENYA
2. Earthen Construction
techniques are seeing a resurgence in eco-friendly projects, as
Ancient Practice: Clay, mud,
and rammed earth have long the method not only provides a natural aesthetic but also meets
been staples in construction, stringent energy performance requirements.
with examples such as the
Great Wall of China and Why It Matters:
African huts demonstrating
durability and climatic • Earthen construction reconnects us to local materiality.
suitability. • Thermal Performance: Earth-based materials are excellent
at regulating temperature, keeping interiors cool in summer
and warm in winter. This minimizes the need for artificial
Modern Revival:
Contemporary architects
are utilizing rammed earth
and clay bricks, not just
for their aesthetics but for
their thermal properties and
low carbon footprint. The
development of standardized,
quality earthen materials,
like Rwanda’s rukarakara
bricks, shows this approach’s
economic and environmental
viability. Rammed earth
ISSUE 33 | JAUNUARY 2025 29
