Safiul Azam :
Urbanization and industrialization have revolutionized human life, providing comfort and convenience that were unimaginable a century ago. However, these advances have come at a significant cost to the environment. With the ever-increasing global population, the demand for housing and infrastructure has skyrocketed, leading to a growing reliance on materials such as cement, bricks, and concrete. These materials, while indispensable to modern construction, have severe environmental consequences. Their widespread use contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, depletes natural resources, and accelerates environmental degradation.
In Bangladesh, one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, the impact of environmental degradation is particularly acute. The country experiences frequent natural disasters, including floods, cyclones, storm surges, and river erosion. These events not only disrupt lives and livelihoods but also highlight the urgent need for sustainable and disaster-resilient housing solutions. Current construction practices often exacerbate environmental challenges, making it crucial to rethink how we build shelters, particularly in disaster-prone areas.
Globally, there is growing recognition of the need for eco-friendly construction practices. In Bangladesh, this need is especially pressing given the country’s vulnerability to climate change. Shelter construction must evolve to incorporate sustainable materials that are affordable, locally sourced, and resilient to disasters. Environmentally friendly shelters can provide safe havens for vulnerable communities while minimizing the adverse effects of traditional construction practices.
The environmental impact of conventional building materials cannot be ignored. For instance, Bangladesh produces approximately 17.2 billion bricks annually, consuming about 240 tons of coal per million bricks. This production process not only contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions but also depletes fertile agricultural land, further straining the country’s already limited resources. Additionally, repeated reconstruction after disasters often relies on unsustainable material sourcing, compounding environmental degradation and increasing economic burdens.
To address these challenges, sustainable alternatives such as bamboo, mud, and wood must be prioritized. These materials are not only environmentally friendly but also culturally appropriate and affordable. Bamboo, in particular, stands out as an ideal option for eco-friendly construction. It is renewable, grows quickly, and has structural properties that make it suitable for disaster-resilient housing. Similarly, mud and cane can serve as durable and low-impact construction materials, reducing reliance on environmentally harmful resources like cement and concrete.
The importance of eco-friendly shelter construction was a key focus of a recent roundtable discussion organized by Islamic Relief Bangladesh. The event brought together environmentalists, construction experts, and policymakers, including Syeda Rezwana Hasan, a prominent environmental advocate. Participants emphasized the need for sustainable materials in disaster-prone areas, highlighting their potential to create cost-effective, resilient, and environmentally responsible shelters.
In regions like coastal areas, haors (wetlands), and northern Bangladesh, where natural disasters are frequent, eco-friendly shelters are especially critical. These areas face unique challenges, including vulnerability to cyclones, floods, and storm surges. Building shelters with locally available, sustainable materials not only reduces costs but also aligns with local traditions and cultural practices. Such shelters offer long-term safety while minimizing their environmental footprint.
Despite their numerous benefits, eco-friendly construction methods face significant barriers. Limited awareness, inadequate access to sustainable materials, and a lack of policy support often hinder their adoption. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Governments, NGOs, and civil society must collaborate to strengthen regulations promoting green construction. Community empowerment is equally important, as local knowledge and skills are crucial for the successful implementation of sustainable housing initiatives.
Investing in research and innovation is another critical step. For example, improving the structural strength of bamboo and enhancing the durability of mud and cane can make these materials even more viable for large-scale construction projects. Establishing innovation hubs to pilot new technologies in the construction sector can accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly practices.
Reconstruction after disasters presents a unique opportunity to incorporate sustainable materials and practices. Rapid rebuilding efforts often prioritize speed over sustainability, leading to environmental harm and wasted resources. By integrating eco-friendly materials into post-disaster recovery plans, we can ensure that reconstruction efforts are both swift and sustainable.
Moreover, eco-friendly shelter construction plays a vital role in mitigating the effects of climate change. As climate change intensifies, the frequency and severity of natural disasters are expected to increase. Using sustainable materials in shelter construction can help communities withstand these challenges while reducing their environmental impact. For instance, bamboo’s rapid growth and carbon sequestration properties make it an excellent choice for combating climate change.
To scale up these efforts, the government must take a proactive role in promoting eco-friendly construction. This includes providing incentives for sustainable building practices, ensuring the availability of natural materials, and developing policies that prioritize green construction. Training programs and awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in encouraging communities to adopt sustainable housing solutions.
Integrated efforts from all stakeholders are essential for the success of eco-friendly construction initiatives. Community-led projects showcasing affordable green housing solutions can serve as models for replication. These projects not only demonstrate the feasibility of sustainable construction but also empower communities to take ownership of their housing needs.
The economic aspect of eco-friendly construction cannot be overlooked. Sustainable materials like bamboo and mud are often more affordable than traditional options like cement and concrete. For low-income households, this affordability is a significant advantage. Additionally, the durability of natural materials can reduce long-term maintenance costs, making eco-friendly shelters a cost-effective solution for vulnerable communities.
Beyond immediate benefits, eco-friendly construction contributes to broader goals of sustainable development. By reducing reliance on resource-intensive materials, these practices help preserve natural ecosystems and combat environmental degradation. They also align with global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to climate action and sustainable cities.
Bangladesh’s unique challenges demand innovative solutions. With only 12 decimals of cultivable land per capita, the country cannot afford to continue losing fertile land to brick production and other environmentally harmful practices. Transitioning to sustainable construction methods is not just an environmental imperative but also a socio-economic necessity.
(The writer is Advocacy and Communications Coordinator).
