Page 35 - Demo

The EnvironmentISSUE 39 | JULY 2025 35Construction began in 2024, with completion anticipated in 2025. This project exemplifies the potential of natural materials like straw in urban, multi-story construction, challenging traditional perceptions and paving the way for more sustainable building practices.Similarly, in V%u00e4ster%u00e5s, Sweden, an eight-story residential building has adopted straw sandwich panels, proving that strawbased construction is viable for high-rise urban developments. These panels, which consist of compressed straw encased in fire-retardant, weatherproof materials, boast superior insulation properties while being lightweight and easy to install.Global Adoption of StrawBased InnovationsBeyond Sweden, straw is being embraced for its sustainability benefits:Hastings Pier, UK %u2013 Incorporates straw bales as structural insulation, demonstrating durability even in marine climates.Popincourt School, France %u2013 Uses prefabricated straw insulation panels to meet Passive House standards.Carson Straw Home Project, USA %u2013 Showcases how modern engineering enhances straw%u2019s thermal and moisture-regulating properties.Straw in Kenya: Thatched (Makuti) Roofing InnovationsStraw isn%u2019t just transforming walls%u2014it%u2019s revolutionizing roofing techniques in Kenya. Traditional thatched roofing using grass or makuti (palm fronds), typically lasting 15 years, is being extended to 30 years by using long dried straws with improved treatment methods. These roofs provide excellent thermal insulation, keeping interiors cool in hot climates while reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems. This revival of thatching traditions highlights how indigenous knowledge, combined with modern enhancements, can create sustainable, durable solutions.The Longevity of Long Dried Straws in Thatched Roofing: A Technical PerspectiveWhile grass and makuti are more commonly used, long dried straws are proving to be a far superior option in terms of longevity, durability, and sustainability. Here%u2019s a look at why long dried straws last longer and why they are harder to source:1. Structural Integrity and DensityThe Rise of Straw in Sustainable Building: From Skepticism to SuccessRONALD MBIU, NAIROBI, KENYA