A pioneering construction initiative in Colombia is repurposing discarded plastic and rubber into
The innovation relies on an extrusion process where various types of industrial and consumer-grade plastics are melted and poured into moulds to create durable, interlocking blocks. By mixing different plastic compositions, the developers can adjust the structural properties of the material, ensuring the resulting blocks provide the necessary rigidity and flexibility for one and two-storey buildings. The design is specifically engineered for ease of use, requiring only basic tools like a hammer and a wrench for assembly.
Modular Design and Social Impact
The efficiency of the system is a primary feature, with the company noting that a 40-square-metre home can be constructed by a four-person team in just five days. The modular nature of the blocks also allows for structures to be dismantled in approximately three days, making the homes highly portable. This mobility has proven particularly valuable for providing emergency housing to populations displaced by violence, such as the 2015 project in Guapi, Cauca, which provided shelter for 42 families.
Beyond emergency relief, the technology is being utilised for permanent residential projects in regions like Valle del Cauca and Cartagena. Architect Oscar Andres Mendez, who leads the initiative, emphasises that the project serves a dual purpose: addressing the environmental impact of plastic waste while simultaneously tackling social housing deficits. By sourcing plastic from local businesses and recycling groups, the company aims to demonstrate a tangible link between responsible waste management and the provision of decent, affordable housing.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Addressing potential public concerns regarding the use of recycled waste in residential construction, Mendez clarifies that the material undergoes rigorous processing. The plastic is cleaned, ground, and subjected to temperatures exceeding 300 degrees Celsius during production, a process intended to eliminate microorganisms and ensure the safety of the final product. Furthermore, the blocks are treated to be fire-resistant and are designed to withstand seismic activity, providing a robust alternative to standard rural construction methods.
The economic and environmental benefits are significant, with the company reporting that its construction method is approximately 30 per cent cheaper than traditional rural building systems. By diverting plastic from landfills and reducing the energy and water consumption associated with conventional construction, the project seeks to lower carbon emissions. As the company continues to expand its reach, including international exports to countries like Costa Rica, it remains focused on its core mission of closing the plastic cycle by turning environmental waste into essential infrastructure.
