Knowledge Hub
The Potential of Bamboo Construction
Bamboo is light, very strong in tension and grows back quickly. Yet in modern construction it plays only a minor role. We talk about where it grows, which standards exist, its advantages and disadvantages and how to use it best in development cooperation.
Bamboo Construction in Practice
Before bamboo becomes a building material, it has to be cut, dried and treated. We show different construction methods and joints and talk about how to maintain bamboo buildings. The examples range from simple houses in Myanmar to complex buildings on Bali.
Project preparation
The most important factors to analyze in order to determine whether a construction project is truly needed and feasible. In development cooperation, preparation goes beyond design and materials — it’s often the questions of needs, roles, communication, and partner dynamics that matter most.
Background Knowledge
Thorough on-site research is crucial before starting any construction project. Every project is shaped by factors like climate, local materials, infrastructure, and the risk of natural disasters. This session offers an overview, with special emphasis on understanding the local context and material availability.
Design
What aspects should be considered and what strategic decisions (e.g. typology, location, fencing, number of floors, wall openings, exterior design) can be made when planning the building, even if no architects are involved.
Budget
Rising construction costs and limited funding opportunities call for efficiency and creativity. This presentation looks at construction costs and provides advice on how to prepare effectively, plan budgets, and keep expenses under control throughout the building process.
Sustainability
Sustainability in construction is about more than just alternative materials. With the construction sector contributing significantly to global CO₂ emissions, other key issues are also explored — including WASH, long-term maintenance, scalability, and the shortage of local professionals. The presentation offers a look at both
Construction Execution
The construction process of a simple building – from laying the foundation to the roof – is explained in an easy-to-understand way. It helps non-experts gain a better understanding of the process and provides professionals with a basis for comparing different building conditions.
WASH
WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) plays a key role in improving health and living conditions and is closely tied to the development of infrastructure.This presentation explores different strategies for toilet planning and for handling human waste, depending on local conditions and other relevant factors.
WASH Case Studies
The presentation features a range of projects that highlight alternative approaches to toilets and sanitation, helping to raise awareness around this often overlooked issue.Examples include facilities in Ghana, Malawi, Sierra Leone, and Ethiopia, developed by different organizations.