Amidst the global environmental challenges we face, prioritizing sustainability has become imperative. One notable solution gaining traction is the transition towards a circular economy. The circular economy represents a fundamental shift in the way we produce and consume goods, moving away from the traditional linear “take-make-dispose” approach. It promotes a model where resources are utilized for as long as possible, with their value maximized through practices such as recycling, reusing, repairing, and remanufacturing.

At its core, circular economy is based on three principles:

• Eliminate waste and pollution
• Circulate products and materials (at their highest value)
• Regenerate nature

Bamboo, with its remarkable properties and characteristics, presents significant opportunities to support the principles of a circular economy. Recognizing this potential, BASE, through extensive research, training, and value chain development, developed the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT). 

In this blog, we will delve into the role of bamboo in driving the circular economy, highlighting CBTF’s contributions to a more sustainable and efficient economic system.

Sustainable Material

As we have known, Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology utilizes bamboo, a renewable and fast-growing resource, as a primary construction material. Bamboo has a minimal environmental impact compared to traditional construction materials like wood or steel. By incorporating bamboo into the construction value chain, CBFT promotes the use of sustainable and regenerative materials, reducing the reliance on non-renewable resources and supporting the circular economy’s principle of resource efficiency.

Waste Reduction

CBFT minimizes waste generation throughout the construction process. Bamboo culms are utilized efficiently, leaving very little waste behind. Additionally, any byproducts or residues from bamboo processing can be repurposed or recycled, contributing to a closed-loop system. By reducing waste and maximizing resource utilization, CBFT aligns with the circular economy principle of eliminating waste.

Extended Lifespan

Buildings constructed using this innovative technology have demonstrated longevity and durability. Bamboo possesses impressive structural properties, including strength and flexibility. Structures built with CBFT can withstand various environmental conditions such as typhoons and earthquakes, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. This extended lifespan contributes to resource conservation and the reduction of construction waste, supporting the circular economy’s goal of prolonging the useful life of products and materials.

Carbon Sequestration

Bamboo used in Cement-Bamboo Frame homes actively contributes to carbon sequestration. Bamboo plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow, acting as a carbon sink. By incorporating bamboo into the construction process, CBFT helps offset carbon emissions, by storing these into the Bamboo, thus mitigating the impacts of climate change. This carbon sequestration aspect aligns with the circular economy’s aim of regenerating nature and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Local Value Chain

Lastly, CBFT promotes local value chain development, creating employment opportunities and supporting local communities. BASE, through its comprehensive approach, ensures the active involvement of various stakeholders in the entire value chain, including bamboo farmers, treatment workers, and the local community. This localized approach not only drives economic growth but also facilitates knowledge transfer and skills development. 

Indeed, CBFT contributes to the establishment of an inclusive and sustainable circular economy, where resources are maximized, waste is minimized, and communities thrive. Learn more about how we can build a sustainable future with 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!

Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology (CBFT) is revolutionizing the construction industry, providing affordable and sustainable housing solutions. This innovative construction method combines cement’s strength with bamboo’s natural resilience, showcasing bamboo as a viable and sustainable building material. 

The collaboration between cement and bamboo creates disaster-resilient, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing structures. Whether it’s a single detached house, a two-story residence, or a special structure – Structures using CBFT offer versatility in design while ensuring safety and longevity. This innovative approach supports global efforts toward sustainable construction by reducing carbon emissions and promoting alternative building technologies.

Base Bahay Foundation, Inc (BASE) pioneered this technology in the Philippines by utilizing bamboo-based frameworks to create sustainable and resilient structures. Let’s delve into the world of Cement-Bamboo Frame Structures and explore how they offer numerous benefits for different types of construction, contributing to the attainment of sustainable development goals and mitigating negative environmental impacts.

Residential Structures

CBFT offers significant advantages for residential structures, promoting bamboo housing in the Philippines and sustainable construction practices. The incorporation of bamboo, which is a renewable material and abundant in the Philippines reduces costs, while its natural resilience enhances the durability and safety of these houses. Here are some of BASE’s residential structures using the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology: 

1. Single-storey Houses

CBFT homes can be built in either single-detached, duplex, triplex, or row houses. Majority of the BASE socialized homes are single-storey houses commonly with a total floor area of 25 sqm. This type of house contains two (2) bedrooms, a dining and living room, a bathroom, and a kitchen extension. The design also varies depending on the needs of the community.

2. Two-Story Structures

BASE has been recently accredited by the Accreditation of Innovative Technologies for Housing (AITECH) committee to build up to two-storey structures. BASE’s first two-storey housing project is located in Jaro, IloIlo in partnership with Homeless People’s Federation of the Philippines (HPFP) in 2012. These houses can withstand wind zones up to 200 kph. Currently, BASE is building two-storey duplex housing in Panabo, Davao in partnership with AOF Foundation. These homes are composed of three (3) bedrooms, a bathroom, a living and dining room, and a kitchen extension.

Special Structures

The technology extends beyond residential buildings and offers tremendous benefits for special structures, integrating bamboo research and development. Bamboo-based technology allows for the construction of multipurpose buildings and livelihood facilities, supporting the goal of providing socially inclusive and environmentally friendly spaces.

1. Weaving Center:

In a remarkable expansion beyond housing initiatives, The Hilti Foundation, BASE, Holcim Philippines, Inc., and Kanya Kawayan co-develop the Kanya Kawayan Weaving Center in Nasugbu, Batangas. Spanning 148 square meters, this innovative hub serves as the production site for artisanal creations, showcasing the remarkable potential of bamboo while generating employment and alternative livelihood opportunities for women. With a commitment to sustainability, the Weaving Center stands as a beacon of empowerment, symbolizing the transformative power of partnerships in fostering economic growth, and environmental consciousness.

2. Children’s Home:

Happyland in Tondo, Manila, is renowned as one of the most impoverished areas in Metro Manila, housing a high concentration of vulnerable urban poor residents, including children in conflict with the law. In 2017, For People (4P), a humanitarian organization, envisioned a sustainable village to provide a home for these children. The collaboration between the Hilti Foundation, BASE, and 4P brought this vision into reality by buildingthe Rejoice Children’s Village in Nasugbu, Batangas. The village is comprised of four Children’s Homes or eight (8) units accommodating up to six children and two caretakers each, alongside a community center and housing units for other families in need, offering a nurturing and secure environment where these children can thrive, grow, and embrace a brighter future within a supportive community.

3. Multipurpose Building

This building located in Bagong Silangan, Quezon City is a product of the Engaged Beyond Business (EBB) Program of the Hilti Foundation wherein executive management team of Hilti A2 Region participated in the construction of this structure together with BASE and the Vincentian Foundation. This structure serves as a post-harvesting facility of the Planting for Productivity (P4P) project and is part of the Kawayan Housing community.

BASE aims to create sustainable solutions that not only address housing needs but also support economic growth and community development, fostering a more sustainable future. BASE leads the way in implementing this innovative technology in the Philippines, promoting sustainable and socially inclusive housing options.

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, provide further knowledge about bamboo, and engage other institutions in sustainable construction. Learn more about BASE!

Sustainability has gained significant importance in recent years across various industries, including the construction sector. As the world grapples with climate change and growing concerns about environmental impact, the need for the construction industry to adopt sustainable practices has become more urgent than ever. One possible strategy to attain sustainability is through training and learning programs that provide professionals with the information and skills required for sustainable construction.

As part of BASE’s commitment to engage more institutions in sustainable practices, the organization provides training programs to workers, professional builders, students, researchers, and bamboo enthusiasts.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program

BASEis an accredited CPD provider by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) since 2021.

Under its Bamboo Academy program, BASE resident experts equip professionals with knowledge and skills about the proper application of the Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology as well as an overview of the bamboo codes and standards. This program also provides free learning modules for architects, and civil engineers. The Foundation aims to lead in bamboo-based research and technology, driving its integration into mainstream construction.

Currently, BASE has conducted 10 CPD Programs attended by over 1,000 professional builders. Aside from in-person training programs, BASE also conducts online sessions to cater more builders.

As BASE continues to work with the Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines (ASEP) on the inclusion of bamboo in the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP), the organization is more eager to encourage other institutions and professionals on bamboo construction. Promoting sustainable construction through comprehensive training and learning programs is also crucial for the long-term viability of the construction industry.

Technical Skills Training to Workers

Prior to the start of any construction, BASE conducts technical skills training to workers and ensures the proper application of CBFT on every step of the process. This is to ensure the quality of structures being built.

BASE also provides TESDA accredited programs on Carpentry and Masonry. These accreditations can be used by every worker even after finishing the BASE project, which helps them to be engaged on more construction projects and eventually generate income for their family.

Beyond skills training, workers were also equipped with knowledge on using Hilti tools through representatives of the Hilti Philippines, which is one of BASE’s committed partners in all its construction projects.

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, provide further knowledge about bamboo, and engage other institutions in sustainable construction. Learn more about BASE!

Global warming and deforestation have become chronic issues that demand immediate action. As we find alternative solutions, bamboo emerges as a compelling solution that not only finds application in housing but also contributes to environmental conservation.

Bamboo is a prominent example of a sustainable material that is being used in eco-friendly construction. Its rapid growth is the source of its remarkable sustainability, making it readily available compared to other construction materials. The abundance of bamboo further reduces market prices, making it a cost-effective building material. In addition, if the bamboo is properly treated and protected from the sun and rain then these structures can have a lifespan of 30 to 50 years. This longevity, combined with bamboo’s innate strength, allows it to withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes and strong winds. This durability ensures stability and also minimizes resource consumption over time.

In this article, we will demonstrate keyways how bamboo can help the earth mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change that we have today.

Astounding Growth Rate

Certain species of bamboo can grow more than three feet per day. In addition, a distinguishing feature of bamboo is its ability to regenerate quickly after harvesting. When bamboo is harvested, new branches grow from the plant’s existing roots without the need for additional planting or cultivation.

Provide Livelihood Opportunities 

Bamboo provides diverse livelihood opportunities for communities especially on areas where it is abundant. Farmers and rural communities cultivate bamboo for commercial purposes, selling shoots, poles, and culms. Skilled artisans create exquisite bamboo handicrafts, while bamboo’s strength enables employment in construction for building houses and structures. The textile industry benefits from bamboo fibers as well, producing sustainable clothing and bedding. Bamboo farming generate income through propagation and sales. Bamboo’s versatility sustains livelihoods by providing income generation and employment across various sectors.

Sustainable Resource 

The UN FAO’s estimation of an annual deforestation rate of 10 million hectares highlights the alarming reality of forests being cut down for various purposes. This emphasizes the urgent need to explore alternatives to conventional building materials. Bamboo, with its properties, serves as an ideal alternative. Opting for bamboo instead of traditional materials can alleviate the pressure on our forests and safeguard the diverse ecosystems they sustain.

One organization at the forefront of promoting the sustainable use of bamboo in construction is BASE. Their pioneering technology, known as Cement Bamboo Frame Technology, is a prime example of their commitment. Through this innovative approach, they have developed homes and special structures that are designed to be resilient in the face of various climatic challenges.

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, provide further knowledge about bamboo, and engage other institutions in sustainable construction. Learn more about BASE!

From strength to versatility and sustainability, bamboo is a game-changer in the construction industry. It surpasses various traditional building materials like wood and steel with its impressive strength-to-weight ratio, rapid growth and regenerative properties, flexibility, and tensile strength, and not to mention, its affordability. 

Currently, BASE has six (6) bamboo supply and treatment facilities across the Philippines: AOF Foundation in Panabo, Davao; FLP Construction and Agricultural Development Corp. in Parang, Maguindanao; Kanya Kawayan in Nasugbu, Batangas; Kawayan Collective in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental; Hineleban Foundation in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon; and Murcia Cooperative in Murcia, Negros Occidental.

In bamboo treatment, BASE follows the nine-step process to ensure the suitability of bamboo poles for construction:

Step 1: Received Raw Poles

BASE conducts quality control upon delivery of bamboo poles. Workers must also ensure that the poles do not directly touch the ground. In addition, bamboo must also be processed as early as possible.

Take note that not all bamboo species make a good building material. It is better to check with bamboo experts as well as to identify the particular species that are abundant in the area.

Step 2: Pre-Cleaning

This process involves washing and scrubbing the bamboo polebeforeto soaking to remove dirt and lichen that can clog the washing tub.

Step 3: Node Punching

The bamboo nodes are being drilled on both sides for water and treatment solutions to pass through.

Step 4: Washing

Bamboo poles are soaked in moving water for three (3) daytoto remove the starch. Before removing from the washing tub, the bamboo poles must be scrubbed to remove the starch on the exterior. 

Step 5: Drying

It is the process of removing the natural water of bamboo poles. This process can be done through air drying or sun drying.

Step 6: Quality Control

Workers must ensure that there are no rejected washed and semi-dried poles that will undergo treatment.

Step 7: Treatment

The bamboo poles are now loaded in the treatment tank. Workers must also ensure that bamboo poles ary submerged in the treatment solution.

Step 8: Dripping

The bamboo poles are unloaded in the treatment tank and placed in the dripping board to allow excess treatment solution to drip back into the treatment tank.

Step 9: Racking of treated poles

The treated poles are being organized on a rack and in a dry place away from direct sunlight. In this process, bamboo poles also undergo quality control before delivery to construction sites.

By following this process and properly protecting the bamboo from natural elements such as rain and exposure to the sun, bamboo can have a lifespan exceeding 30 to 50 years. Learn more about bamboo as a building material with 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!

The global affordable housing gap is currently estimated at 330 million urban households and with the impact of natural disasters, it is expected to grow greatly affecting millions of people with loss of life, property, and living. By building durable structures, people can avoid constant rebuilding whenever a calamity strikes, and every family will have a secure and livable space, which is one of the basic human necessities.

BASE with its Cement-Bamboo Frame Technology utilizes bamboo as an alternative construction material to build durable and sustainable structures that are tested to resist typhoons, earthquakes, fire, and insect infestation. Beyond building quality structures, this technology also helps the value chain as it provides livelihood to local farmers, helps establish a circular economy, and cultivates the skills of the workers through the provision of technical skills training.

How it started

In 2011, the Hilti Foundation initiated a research program in the Philippines with the objective of determining the viability of bamboo as the main building material in construction. Despite its abundant availability and promising prospects, bamboo has yet to be fully utilized in this sector. The research was driven by the urgent requirement for environmentally sustainable, resilient, and socially inclusive housing solutions in developing nations. After conducting a series of research and tests to showcase the durability of the technology, the Hilti Foundation made the decision to provide funding to Base in 2013, leading to the establishment of the Base Bahay Foundation, Inc. in 2014.

What is CBFT?

CBFT is a combination of Bahareque technology, European engineering, and Filipino craftsmanship. This is recognized by the Accreditation of Innovative Technologies for Housing (AITECH). Because of the abundance of bamboo in the country, CBFT makes it an ideal housing material.

This technology supported by research maximizes the use of bamboo and applies it for more reliable and systematic performance in engineering structures. It is also affordable compared to conventional structures and designed for permanent use. It is a holistic approach to addressing the global housing gap while focusing on sustainability in terms of materials used and the positive impact it can provide on the community and the people involved in the value chain process.

CBFT: What makes it a good alternative building technology?

To ensure that the housing technology is disaster-resilient, the CBFT has undergone multiple tests such as in material, connection, and system to prove its reliability as building technology. Base also houses the latest technology to conduct a series of testing.

Through the Base Innovation Center, Base works with different local and international institutions and universities to develop further research and innovations and improve the technology.

Overall, more than 6,000 people in 15 communities have found new homes in over 1,500 disaster-resilient CBFT houses in the Philippines and Nepal.

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!