Enhancing Sustainability in Building Construction in Developing Countries : Enhancing Sustainability in Building Construction in Developing Countries

Abstract: This master's thesis was conducted in collaboration with Engineers Without Borders Sweden and Tumaini Open School in Tabora, Tanzania. Tumaini Open School, located on the outskirts of Tabora, is a school under construction expected to host 450 students and to be completed by 2025. The study aims to investigate and propose technical solutions to enhance the sustainability of the school construction. The thesis involved understanding the current needs and conditions in Tabora related to building design and construction. Climate and cost calculations were performed for an existing reference building at Tumaini Open School, to assess the economic and environmental sustainability of the proposed solutions.The study was conducted through an 8-week field study in Tabora, Tanzania, utilizing observations, interviews, and existing research. Traditional construction methods in Tanzania rely on local resources but lack durability, while the increased use of burnt mud bricks leads to deforestation and emissions. The demand for more durable and modern materials, such as concrete sand blocks and iron sheets, presents challenges due to their high cost and carbon footprint. Thus, there is a great need for affordable and durable alternatives. The study examines four key aspects: Interlocking Earth Blocks (IEB), hidden roof constructions, waste management, and water harvesting.The potential of interlocking earth blocks (IEB) as an alternative for wall construction offers cost-effective and climate-friendly buildings by reducing the need for mortar, labor, and materials. Additionally, IEB supports local communities and traditional construction techniques, fostering skills development, employment, and income generation. The "hidden roof" concept is based on the principle of a low-sloping roof hidden behind extended exterior walls. Hidden roofs with a lower slope are proposed to minimize material usage and enhance economic and environmental advantages. Comparative analysis reveals that hidden roofs have the greatest potential for reducing carbon footprint and construction costs, with the combination of IEB and hidden roofs providing the most significant reductions. The findings from the study demonstrate that using IEB and hidden roofs for the constructed building at Tumaini Open School would decrease the cost of wall and roof construction by nearly 19% and reduce the Global Warming Potential (GWP) by 21% compared to the original building.The study also identifies deficiencies in waste management and water harvesting, with suggestions to improve self-sufficiency, plastic recycling, and implement rainwater harvesting systems. While smaller waste management improvements can be implemented within the project, the issue is part of a larger, nationwide problem. However, rainwater harvesting is suggested as an economically favorable, simple, and sustainable solution to ensure a stable water supply for the school.Important to mention is that the presented results are specific to the project, and all calculations and analyses have been performed on an actual constructed building at Tumaini Open School. Furthermore, successful implementation and maintenance are crucial for the long-term sustainability of all the proposed solutions.