Restoring Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site

Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site near La Junta, Colorado has been closed to the public due to safety issues with the structure. The current fort building was constructed in 1976 on the footprint of the original mid-1800s trading post that was a meeting place and major settlement along the Santa Fe Trail for trappers, … Read more

Japanese 3D Home Printed with Earthen Materials

The Japanese company Lib Work is using earthen materials to 3D print homes. House Model B is a 1,076-square-foot, single-story residence built mainly from earth, lime, and natural fibers. Lib Work says improvements to the overall manufacturing process have lowered its carbon emissions and the building itself is about five times stronger than their previous design … Read more

Recycled Glass Found to Strengthen Compressed Earth Blocks

Scientists have found that recycled glass and lime can strengthen compressed earth blocks. This could be a sustainable alternative to cement for eco-friendly, durable construction materials. Compressed earth blocks are produced by mixing soil with water and compacting the material under high pressure. Cement is commonly added to improve the blocks’ mechanical properties, but its production … Read more

Rainforest Tree House in Malaysia

As temperatures rise across Malaysia, highland refuges are warming too. Yet a small forest-based initiative is quietly showcasing resilience. “Gunung Pulai used to feel cooler while hiking, but now it’s no different from the lowlands,” said a clerk at the neighborhood convenience store. Villagers say the weather has become increasingly unpredictable, affecting crops, water access, … Read more

A Natural Bench Building Workshop in New Mexico

Using locally sourced and some imported resources, participants at an earthen bench building workshop worked together to create three benches during the 2025 Silver City CLAY Festival. “Benches or pizza ovens are such a great way to get your hands dirty, to learn more easily, because it doesn’t take a lot of material, unlike building … Read more