Approximately 30 percent of the urban population in Asia-Pacific, which accounts for 570 million people, lives in houses declared as inadequate. This basically means that millions of families are living in unsustainable housing conditions.

Over the past few years, the Asia-Pacific region has also consistently witnessed a high frequency of natural disasters, adversely affecting millions of people by causing loss of life, property, and livelihoods. These recurring calamities underscore the pressing need for resilient housing solutions that can mitigate the devastating impacts of such events.

BASE, as a non-profit organization initiated and supported by the Hilti Foundation, elevates the standard of socialized housing through the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT), an Accreditation of Innovative Technologies for Housing (AITECH) accredited prefabricated frame system.

This technology employs conventional mortar in conjunction with locally sourced bamboo to construct buildings that cater to the requirements of local communities living in regions susceptible to natural disasters.

One of the main objectives of BASE is to provide durable and sustainable housing for communities all over the world using renewable materials.

Application of Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology

The Philippines is known to be one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world and is highly susceptible to seismic risks and frequent typhoons. Consequently, it is crucial that construction technologies employed in the country need to be reliable, durable, and in compliance with the implementing rules and regulations.

To ensure that the housing technology is disaster-resilient, BASE initiated by the Hilti Foundation has worked hand in hand to develop the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT). This alternative building technology has undergone multiple tests in materials, connections, and systems to prove its reliability as a building technology.

This led to a structurally performing, reliable, and durable construction method that is used in housing projects within the Philippines and Nepal. 

Development of the Bamboo Value Chain

Effectively incorporating this innovation, BASE is delivering sustainable, eco-friendly, and disaster-resistant homes to marginalized communities. In collaboration with its partners, BASE has constructed over 1,200 houses in the Philippines. Furthermore, it has extended its global reach through collaborative efforts in Nepal, aimed at constructing environmentally advantageous housing as it currently built over 400 homes.

Currently, BASE has achieved yet another significant milestone by building disaster-resilient structures that yield a greater economic impact, thereby benefiting more individuals with opportunities to support their families.

BASE also provides support to local farmers and bamboo suppliers through this initiative. Previously reliant on seasonal crops, local farmers now engage in year-round bamboo harvesting. In addition, supply partners across the Philippines have received training on bamboo pole treatment for construction purposes.

Due to the ongoing demand for sustainable and resilient housing in Asia-Pacific, the most recent bamboo construction technology holds a promising potential for creating a positive social, environmental, and economic impact. Learn more about cement-bamboo frame technology here at Base.

Base Bahay Foundation, Inc (BASE) is the pioneer of the Cement-Bamboo Framework in the Philippines. BASE builds affordable and disaster-resilient structures using bamboo-based technology. Through continuous research in the Base Innovation Center (BIC), BASE is optimizing the technology and looking for new applications outside its standard model. BASE also offers training courses under its Bamboo Academy program to share alternative building technologies and provide further knowledge on bamboo construction. Learn more about BASE projects and initiatives!

Millions around the world continue to face a significant challenge in obtaining safe and affordable housing due to increasing urbanization, population growth, and environmental issues. Families are compelled to live in substandard conditions in many areas, particularly in developing nations. The Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology seeks to change this narrative by providing a scalable and low-cost solution.

This technology allows for the construction of sturdy and resilient homes at a fraction of the cost of conventional methods. Bamboo, a rapidly renewable resource, serves as the primary building material for the framework, complemented by the structural strength of cement.

The Impact of Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology

The impact of this technology is already being felt in communities around the world. The housing initiatives in Nepal and in the Philippines have adopted the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology. This has resulted in notable improvements in the quality of life for families and communities. In addition to their economic benefits, these homes also showcase impressive architectural aesthetics, demonstrating the versatility of bamboo as a building material.

The main component of this technology is a prefabricated and sustainable frame system made from treated and load-bearing bamboo. The bamboo is reinforced with metal connections and finished with a mortar-cement plaster. Houses built using this technology demonstrate exceptional durability and resilience, especially in countries susceptible to frequent natural disasters, such as the Philippines.

Benefits of this technology include:

Affordability: The technology focuses on providing cost-effective housing solutions. The widespread availability of bamboo in many regions makes it a cost-effective alternative to traditional building materials such as steel and concrete.

Durability: Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology provides resilient structures. The combination of properly treated bamboo and cement’s compressive strength resulted in buildings that can withstand natural disasters, making them an ideal choice for building resilient communities. Moreover, the technology has been tested rigorously, meeting international safety and quality standards.

Rapid Construction: Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT) enables faster construction when compared to conventional methods. Using prefabricated bamboo frames and panels allows for easy on-site assembly, reducing labor costs and construction time.

Sustainable Development: This technology supports sustainable development goals by promoting eco-friendly building materials and practices, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of urbanization. In addition, it also promotes livelihood to the communities.

Community Empowerment: Local communities are also empowered through the creation of jobs and skills development. As the technology becomes more widely adopted, Base Bahay, one of the pioneers of Cement Bamboo Frame Technology, has established the Bamboo Academy. This academy provides training programs and certifications for individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge of CBFT.

The Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology extends beyond a single region. It could transform housing situations in different areas across the globe. Organizations such as BASE Bahay are essential in spreading knowledge about this technology and assisting communities in its effective implementation. Through ongoing research, promoting development, and encouraging the widespread adoption of the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology, they can empower communities and create a brighter and more sustainable future.

Base Bahay Foundation, Inc (BASE) is the pioneer of the Cement-Bamboo Framework in the Philippines. BASE builds affordable and disaster-resilient structures using bamboo-based technology. Through continuous research in the Base Innovation Center (BIC), BASE is optimizing the technology and looking for new applications outside its standard model. BASE also offers training courses under its Bamboo Academy program to share alternative building technologies and provide further knowledge on bamboo construction. Learn more about BASE projects and initiatives!

When we talk about affordable and disaster-resilient structures, we also think of alternative building technologies that are not only affordable but also durable. BASE promotes the use of bamboo as the main construction material in their bamboo-based technology called Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT). Bamboo is one of the most abundant natural products that can be considered sustainable in the Philippines. Its attractive mechanical strength performance and stable supply paved the way for it to be considered the main structural component of CBFT.

The challenge of fire

According to the data released by the Bureau of Fire Protection, it was observed that the recorded fires in the Philippines increased by almost 40 percent last April 2023, compared to the same period the previous year. Houses made of bamboo are also susceptible to this challenge.

Bamboo, the same as other natural-based construction materials, is flammable and can catch fire. Based on the studies by Lu and Chen (2015), bamboo can be burned at a range of 250 °C to 300°C temperature. However, based on a separate study by Gutierrez and Maluk (2020), it was observed that bamboo’s mechanical strength is already affected at 200 °C, losing 80% of its compressive strength, and 30% of its modulus of elasticity. The change in strength due to temperature can be critical when bamboo is used as a structural component of housing or any construction. 

Some existing studies recommend different techniques to protect bamboo against fire. One example is using borax as the fire retardant on bamboo (Yu et al. 2017) and others use charring or the method of partially burning to help extend the burning time of bamboo (Fitriana and Tsai 2017).

Although there are already studies done over the past few years, there is still much to learn to improve the fire resistance of bamboo. As this situation becomes detrimental to the community, BASE is constantly doing research to improve the fire resistance in their CBFT Homes.

BASE’s approach to improving the fire-resistive performance of CBFT

BASE along with the Department of Architecture, SAPPD, Institut Teknologi Bandung, and the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universitas in Indonesia, collaborated to do their research on enhancing bamboo fire resistance. According to their comprehensive article, houses with plastered flattened bamboo is one of the most affordable construction methodologies that can be used in socialized housing (Tambunan et al. 2022). With the emerging use of CBFT in socialized housing, determining its fire-resistive performance rating is found crucial for research.

Upon assessing the best materials to use, a composite bamboo frame with flattened bamboo (Tad-tad) covered with mortar plastering is one of the best possible options. Mortar made of cement and sand mixture is known to withstand high temperatures. This mortar can be used as protective plastering for the bamboo, to produce the composite cement-bamboo framework of the CBFT. BASE along with institutions in Indonesia tried to test the performance of the mortar layer in protecting bamboo against fire and increasing the fire resistance of the composite bamboo shear wall through actual fire testing. It is observed that one of the main causes of the fire affecting the bamboo inside a composite shear wall is the presence of penetrating cracks in the mortar plastering. If there are no penetrating cracks, and with the optimum plastering thickness of 25 mm to 30 mm, the fire resistance of the tested sample walls can reach up to a 2-hour rating.

Continuous Research and Development

The effectiveness of CBFT in improving the overall performance of bamboo as the main structural component of socialized housing can still be improved by continuous research and development. Exploring how to maintain good quality mortar plastering, as well as consistent workmanship, can play key roles in answering the challenge of fire.

As the pioneer of the Cement-Bamboo Framework in the Philippines, Base Bahay Foundation, Inc (BASE) is dedicated not only to providing affordable and disaster-resilient structures using bamboo-based technology but also to protecting the lives and the properties these structures hold. Through continuous research in the Base Innovation Center (BIC), BASE is determined to optimize its technology and look for new applications outside its standard model. BASE also offers training courses under its Bamboo Academy program to share the alternative building technologies and provide further knowledge on bamboo construction. Learn more about BASE projects and initiatives!

The importance of being eco-friendly has never been more pressing, and Base Bahay Foundation, Inc. (BASE) is an outstanding model of sustainable housing and construction. As an initiative of the Hilti Foundation, BASE is dedicated to providing alternative building technologies that produces quality socialized homes that are comfortable, affordable, disaster-resilient, and environment-friendly with social impact. The use of bamboo-based technology, combined with unique approach to engineering and community building, is a crucial part of BASE’s commitment toward sustainability.

Base Bahay – Revolutionizing Sustainable Housing

BASE’s mission is centered on developing sustainable housing solutions that meet the needs of local communities. It also emphasizes the use of locally grown and renewable materials, making every project environmentally responsible and community-centric. BASE is redefining sustainable housing in the Philippines and beyond by bridging the gap between traditional building techniques and modern innovations.

Sustainable Building with Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology

At the heart of BASE’s sustainable construction lies the cement-bamboo frame technology. This groundbreaking approach combines bamboo’s strength and versatility with cement’s durability, resulting in eco-friendly and structurally sound buildings. The use of bamboo-based technology not only reduces construction carbon footprint but also contributes to the revival of traditional building practices in the Philippines.

BASE’s unwavering commitment to bamboo research and development has positioned the foundation as a leader in the field. It strives to deliver sustainable solutions that benefit the environment and local communities by continuously exploring new ways to optimize this construction marvel.

EDGE Green Building Certification – Raising the Standard for Sustainability

In the quest to further promote sustainable construction, BASE sought to validate its efforts through EDGE Green Building Certification. EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) is a globally recognized certification system developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. EDGE focuses on making buildings more resource-efficient, thus supporting emerging markets like the Philippines.

The EDGE certification aims to reduce energy and water consumption and energy footprint in constructing buildings. By obtaining EDGE certification, BASE has demonstrated its adherence to rigorous sustainability standards. This certification not only enhances its credibility but also attracts investors and partners who share its vision for a greener and more sustainable future.

BASE’s EDGE Certified Experts and Current Projects

BASE has six (6) EDGE Certified Experts: Dr. Pablo Jorillo, Engr. Vembee Gohetia, Ar. Luigee Castillo, Ar. Sheila Mendoza, Ar. Jonalyn Nacino, and Engr. Carlo Cacanando. These professionals play a vital role in ensuring that BASE’s projects meet the stringent requirements of sustainable construction set forth by EDGE.

One notable project that showcases BASE’s commitment to sustainable housing is its collaboration with Linkbuild and Reall. This partnership aims to build 20 housing units in Albay, addressing the region’s housing needs while promoting environmentally friendly practices. Aside from this project, BASE has also constructed community houses and supply and treatment facilities, showcasing its dedication to empowering communities and sustainable housing solutions. 

The Benefits of EDGE Certification

EDGE certification has a multitude of benefits, both for BASE and the communities it serves. By adhering to EDGE’s sustainable design principles, BASE can optimize resource use, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste. This approach benefits the environment and results in cost savings, making every project more economically viable in the long run.

For homeowners, EDGE-certified homes are built to last for decades, ensuring a wise and long-lasting investment. Beyond financial advantages, these environmentally friendly homes contribute to a greener planet, positively impacting your finances and the environment.

Moreover, EDGE certification sets BASE apart in the competitive construction market, opening doors to potential partners who prioritize sustainability and social impact.

BASE’s dedication to sustainable housing and construction is evident through its innovative use of bamboo-based technology and its commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Its decision to pursue EDGE Green Building Certification further solidifies its role as trailblazer in the industry. With a vision of creating a greener and more sustainable future, BASE is an inspiration to architects, housing advocates, and communities alike.

Base Bahay Foundation, Inc (BASE) is the pioneer of Cement-Bamboo Framework in the Philippines. BASE builds affordable and disaster-resilient structures using bamboo-based technology. Through continuous research in the Base Innovation Center (BIC), BASE is optimizing the technology and looking for new applications outside its standard model. BASE also offers training courses under its Bamboo Academy program to share alternative building technologies, provide further knowledge about bamboo, and engage other institutions in sustainable construction. Learn more about BASE!

In the pursuit of a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach in the construction industry, alternative building technologies have emerged, challenging traditional norms. Among these innovations that is now gaining recognition and acclaim is the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT).

CBFT is an innovative construction method that combines bamboo and cement to create a durable and sustainable building material. This technology aims to revolutionize the construction industry, particularly the residential landscape, by providing a cost-effective, environmentally conscious, disaster-resilient, and robust solution for building homes.

In this blog, we will explore the profound benefits of Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology as a construction material and how it is transforming the way we build homes.

Strength and Durability

Bamboo, as one of the key components of CBFT, is a natural wonder that has long been underestimated as a building material. Contrary to popular misconception that bamboo is weak and flimsy, it is actually a viable building material. When properly treated and engineered, it exhibits impressive compression properties and tensile strength, surpassing traditional materials. Homes that are made from Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology are ensured to be sturdy, and resilient against seismic forces and extreme weather conditions, providing homeowners with durable and reliable housing solutions.

Resilience Against Pests and Decay

Critics often argue that bamboo is susceptible to pest infestations and decay. However, CBFT addresses these concerns head-on. Through intensive research and continuous testing, BASE has developed a treatment process to make bamboo resistant to pests, decay, and fungal attacks. With proper preservation techniques, this innovation assures that homes built with the CBFT remain robust and resilient for years to come.

Energy-Efficient Homes

Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology’s exceptional insulation properties contribute to energy-efficient homes. The natural thermal regulation of bamboo-cement composites reduces the need for excessive heating or cooling, cutting down energy consumption and utility costs for homeowners. Embracing CBFT supports eco-conscious living by reducing the overall carbon footprint of residential properties.

Affordable and Accessible Solution

CBFT offers affordable and accessible housing solutions, particularly in regions where traditional construction materials are scarce or costly. With its simplified construction process and the availability of bamboo in various regions, this technology provides an opportunity to build disaster-resilient and sustainable housings that are within reach for many communities.

Sustainable

Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource, known for its quick growth and minimal environmental impact. As a result, bamboo is a carbon-negative material, absorbing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it emits. By using bamboo as a primary building material, CBFT actively contributes to carbon sequestration, making it a greener and more sustainable alternative to conventional construction methods.

Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology as a building material changes the game in the construction industry, offering a myriad of benefits to both humans and the environment. By embracing this innovation we are closer to a better tomorrow, one house at a time. Learn more about cement-bamboo frame housing here at Base.

Base Bahay Foundation, Inc (BASE) is the pioneer of Cement-Bamboo Framework  in the Philippines. BASE builds affordable and disaster-resilient structures using bamboo-based technology. Through continuous research in the Base Innovation Center (BIC), BASE is optimizing the technology and looking for new applications outside its standard model. BASE also offers training courses under its Bamboo Academy program to share the alternative building technologies and provide further knowledge on bamboo construction. Learn more about BASE projects and initiatives!

Base Bahay Foundation Inc. brings in five bamboo experts from Virginia Tech, ETH Zurich, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), International Bamboo and Rattan Organization (INBAR), and De La Salle University in the upcoming second session of Bamboost: Upscaling Green Construction on September 15, 2023, at The Loft at Manansala, Makati City.

This year’s Bamboo Forum with the theme, “Building with Bamboo: The Future of Sustainable Construction,” will provide the participants with access to the latest research and innovations on bamboo construction, particularly on Bamboo Connections Performance, Life Cycle Assessment, and Design.

Get to know the speakers

HKUST will be represented by Dr. Ilias Dimitrakopoulos who is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. He is a graduate of Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the Civil Engineering Department of the Polytechnic School at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. In 2009, he completed his Doctor of Philosophy degree. His research works focus on bamboo structures, bamboo engineering, nonlinear structural dynamics, the seismic response of structures, and earthquake engineering.

BASE also invited Dr. Edwin Zea Escamilla, a Senior Assistant at the Chair for Sustainable Construction of ETH Zurich. His research centers on a comprehensive exploration of the sustainability and life cycle of construction materials and buildings. Dr. Escamilla studied Architecture in Colombia and obtained an MSc in Urban Environmental Management from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. Subsequently, in 2016, he successfully completed his doctoral degree, showcasing his commitment to academic advancement. 

One of this year’s roster of experts is Liu Kewei, who currently serves as the Coordinator for the Global Bamboo Construction Programme. Since 2008, she has been deeply engaged in advancing the utilization of bamboo construction on a global scale. She has overseen the successful execution of over 20 international bamboo construction projects and played an active role in establishing the INBAR Bamboo Construction Task Force. Kewei graduated from Beijing Jiaotong University with a master’s degree in Structural Engineering and is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the School of Civil Engineering at Tsinghua University.

Jonas Hauptman, Co-Founder of the VT BioDesign Research Group and currently an Associate Professor of Industrial Design at Virginia Tech in the United States will also be sharing his expertise in the forum. His research endeavors involve a wide array of materials, notably including recycled plastics and bamboo. He has won several prestigious awards including the 2004 University of Michigan’s Oberdick Fellowship, and a 2018 AIA Upjohn award. His work has also been featured in the media including Architect, Metropolis, Dwell, the New York Times, and others. His recent video “Building with Biology” was included in the 17th Venice Architecture Biennale. 

The De La Salle University will be represented by Dr. Lessandro Estelito Garciano. His involvement extends beyond the academic community, where he contributes as a member of the Wind Loads Committee of the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP). Additionally, he currently serves as the Vice President of the Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines (ASEP). His research interests involve various fields, including wind, earthquakes, flood hazard mapping, Bayesian updating methods, risk assessment, reliability theory, and the multi-hazard assessment of historical structures, hospitals, and schools.

BASE resident expert, Engr. Luis Lopez will also share how bamboo can be utilized to build disaster-resilient structures. Luis is responsible for overseeing the research, training, and practical application of BASE’s Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology in the Philippines. Currently, he is part of the ISO Committee TC 165 (Timber and bamboo structures) representing Colombia, where he worked keenly on the update of the ISO 22156 “Bamboo structural design” standard, published in June 2021. He is also the newly appointed Co-Chair for the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP) 8th Edition, 2022 – Chapter 8 Bamboo Volume I. Luis graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from Universidad Nacional de Colombia in 2000. 

Bamboost is free to all professional architects, civil engineers, students, researchers, developers, and bamboo enthusiasts. After successfully completing the program, licensed architects and civil engineers will earn CPD units. For more information about BASE, visit www.base-builds.com.