In a world grappling with the effects of climate change and natural disasters, innovative solutions are emerging to address urgent housing needs. One such solution comes from Finland, where a company called Block Solutions is revolutionizing the construction industry by utilizing plastic waste to create interlocking Lego-like building Blocks. Let’s dive into how these eco-friendly Blocks could have us rethinking the way we look at construction and sustainability.
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The concept behind Block Solutions
Founded by Markus Silfverberg in 2017, Block Solutions aims to provide a rapid, low-cost construction method that is both sustainable and efficient. The Blocks are made from recycled polypropylene and other plastics, combined with organic fibers like wood byproducts. This unique biocomposite material is not only lightweight but also features a load-bearing strength that surpasses traditional cinder blocks.
Credit: Block Solutions
Credit: Block Solutions
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Rapid assembly using Blocks for disaster recovery
The construction process is remarkably simple: it requires no heavy machinery or skilled labor. With just a rubber hammer, a water level, and a ring wrench, two people can assemble a 323-square-foot structure in approximately two and a half hours. This efficiency is crucial in disaster recovery scenarios, where time is of the essence.
Credit: Block Solutions
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Real-world applications of building with Blocks
Block Solutions has made significant strides in disaster recovery, particularly following the 2018 earthquake in Lombok, Indonesia. In collaboration with Classroom of Hope, the company constructed a five-room school in just six days, at a cost significantly lower than traditional building methods. This project not only provided immediate shelter but also helped remove tons of plastic waste from the environment, demonstrating the dual benefits of their approach.
Credit: Block Solutions
The lightweight nature of the Blocks also enhances safety in earthquake-prone regions, as they are less likely to cause serious harm during seismic events. As Block Solutions expands its operations globally, including plans for factories in Asia and potentially the U.S., the demand for these innovative Blocks continues to grow.
Credit: Block Solutions
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Environmental impact of using Blocks in construction
The environmental implications of using plastic waste in construction are profound. With only 1% of plastic ever being recycled twice, the majority ends up in landfills, contributing to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By repurposing this waste into building materials, Block Solutions not only addresses housing shortages but also helps mitigate the environmental crisis.
Credit: Block Solutions
The company says it is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, claiming that the carbon impact of their Blocks is “close to zero.” As they explore new materials, such as bamboo and rice husks, they aim to further enhance the sustainability of their products.
Credit: Block Solutions
Kurt’s key takeaways
By turning plastic waste into building Blocks, Block Solutions is not only providing affordable housing solutions but also addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution. As climate change continues to challenge communities worldwide, the need for such creative and effective solutions will only grow. The future of construction may very well lie in the hands of companies like Block Solutions, paving the way for a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable world.
What role do you believe government policies should play in promoting the use of innovative construction methods like those developed by Block Solutions? Let us know in the comments below.
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4 comments
Hello!
I read your article on the plastic and wood fiber blocks construction and I wanted to know if the toxins in the plastic is constrained in the processing of the blocks.
From Consumer Reports: Jan 2024
Researchers have cataloged thousands of chemicals found in plastic. Many have been linked to health hazards, according to Tracy Woodruff, PhD, a professor of reproductive sciences at the University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine. Many are used widely but have yet to be adequately studied or tested for safety, Maffini says. What’s more, tiny bits of plastic, known as microplastics, break off plastic all the time and are now found in food, water, and air. And these tiny bits of plastic not only can leach chemicals but also may present risks all their own.
The widespread use of plastics means they are so ubiquitous that national biomonitoring surveys by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention find some plastic chemicals—including BPA and phthalates—in pretty much everyone in the U.S., according to Maffini.
Gerry
I have the same concern re containment of toxins in plastic. But the government should play NO role in promoting these technologies and methods. The government seems to almost always get it wrong. And to the extent they get it wrong they are putting roadblocks in front of other new technologies and methods that might be far better.
My fear would be that if there is a fire you would face toxic gases from the melting/burning plastic that would kill you faster than the fire would.
You are correct. Plastic + wood fiber is an excellent fuel for fires. this combination will burn very hot, will be difficult to extinguish and will be very toxic.