Yesterday I wrote to the two largest industry associations that are related to earthbag building — the Geosynthetics Society and the Textile Bag and Packaging Association. The Geosynthetics Society is the professional organization that represents engineers who design large earthbag projects for highways, railroads, erosion control, mining, marine facilities and many other industrial applications. The Textile Bag and Packaging Association represents manufacturers of bags and tubes that in addition to earthbag building are used for many purposes such as grain and feed bags, cement, etc. Both of these industries are poised to capitalize on a rapidly emerging new market in earthbag building.
natural building
Sindhupalchok’s Sorrow
“The hard-hit district is losing hope despite being so close to the capital. The Arniko Highway coils eastwards from Kathmandu towards the Chinese border at Kodari. Every settlement, every bazar, every village along the way has been flattened.
Another Earthbag Structure Survives Nepal Quake
“Hello All,
Our earthbag shelter in Badhikhel (image attached) held up beautifully during the earthquake. The government and aid agencies should consider this building technique in places where manpower / volunteers can be found.”
Free Earthbag Training for NGOs May 23/24
Free earthbag workshop in Thailand for NGOs and building professionals who are going to help rebuild Nepal. Dates for first 2 day workshop: May 23, 24, 2015 (hurry, that’s only one week from now!) Trainer contact information: Owen Geiger at naturalhouses [AT] gmail.com *Email me for workshop details. Hotel: $12/person Meals: $1-$3 Emphasis is on … Read more
First Steps Himalaya planning to rebuild schools in rural Sindhupalchok
“First Steps Himalaya constructed an earthbag Education and Training Centre just prior to the massive earthquake that hit Nepal on 25th April 2015. The building was constructed using proven earthbag construction methods utilizing polypropylene sacks, barbed wire, steel rebar and earth. The building stood up to the 7.9 magnitude earthquake as well as a 6.5 magnitude local earthquake that followed soon after.
Grand Designs Les Gets
“300 year old chalet. This home is an incredible mix of old and new. The video also shows how difficult remodeling and building can be.”