Lego-like construction bricks made from plastic waste can stand up to nature’s fury
The blocks are made from recycled polypropylene and other plastics, combined with organic fibers like wood byproducts.
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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Lego-like building blocks. (Block Solutions)
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.
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People holding Lego-like building blocks. (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.
A woman holding a Lego-like building block. (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.
Five-room school in Indonesia constructed of Lego-like building blocks. (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.
Five-room school in Indonesia constructed of Lego-like building blocks. (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.
Classroom in Indonesia constructed of Lego-like building blocks. (Block Solutions)
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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.
People using Lego-like building blocks on a construction project. (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.
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