“Mycocrete” May Eventually Replace Foam, Timber and Plastic

Researchers from Newcastle University have crafted a new bio-based material called “mycocrete”. Using mycelium combined with additional natural materials, the team can grow a tightly wound substrate stronger than previous mycelium materials. The knitted design can create 3D shapes without seams or waste. “Our ambition is to transform the look, feel, and well-being of architectural … Read more

Dry Stone Walls in Croatia

In the heart of Croatia stretches a network of kilometers-long dry stone walls and magnificent stone huts—using stones without any binding material. The significance of these walls is more than just as structures. For instance, in vineyards people can live for months during the cultivation process or while tending to livestock. Stone by stone, these … Read more

Amory Lovins Claims that Renewable Energy Can Supply Our Future Needs

You often hear that fossil fuels are phasing out, and solar and wind power can’t produce enough electricity to meet the demand in coming decades, so some advocate the use of nuclear energy to fill the gap. But that’s not the thinking of Amory Lovins, the 76-year-old co-founder of the Rocky Mountain Institute in western … Read more

How Deconstruction Now Flourishes in Portland

There are several benefits to deconstruction versus mechanical demolition: environmental benefits, historical preservation and job creation are the big three. Shawn Wood, a construction waste specialist for the city of Portland, Oregon shares how its deconstruction ordinance came about. Wood said around 2013-2014 the country was coming out of a recession, and the city saw … Read more

16 Essential Steps to Straw Bale Success

If you go to strawbale.com you can download a free subscription to “16 Essential Steps to Straw Bale Success” e-course.  For over two weeks you’ll receive a daily and information-packed lesson about straw bale construction in your inbox. Over 50,000 people have read it so far! Everything from  Design, Choosing Best Bales, Creating Custom Bales, Creating Niches, Prep … Read more