Many years ago it was easy to recognize Mong villages and hamlets with traditional earthen houses, but now, many households have replaced earthen houses with modern architecture; the unique features in the traditional houses of the Mong people are gradually fading away. Ms. Trang Thi Sang still lives in a traditional earthen house. She said … Read more
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
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
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
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
Belton High School in Texas has won more championships in tiny home construction than any other school in the country. Could a team of rookies defend the title? The plumber, the mason, the electrician and the carpenter arrived a full hour early to collect their blueprints. They had two days in June to build an … Read more