In West Africa, deforestation and climate change have dramatically decreased the supply of straw and wood. This has caused Africans to use imported sheet metal. This material is inefficient because it makes homes cold in the winter and extremely hot in the summer. The Nubian Vault Association (La Voute Nubienne) has taken action on this inefficient housing.
According to their website, AVN is using a simplified version of a 3,000-year-old technique used by the ancient Nubian civilization. This method uses only earth bricks and earth mortar. These vaults are ecologically sustainable, carbon neutral, economically viable, comfortable, and durable. This method can be applied to schools and hospitals.
Not only is AVN fighting climate change, but it calls for community involvement and relief to people living in poverty. These homes are built in the dry season, which is when there is little agricultural work. Many men in African villages are available during this time to help as an apprentice or an unskilled laborer.
According to CNN, this association plans to house one million people by 2030. AVN can aid in the fight to end climate change and bring an end to poverty. For more information about the technique of their building process, visit their website.
