Enironmental aspects

The building, designed by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, is going to be an example of how it is possible to build in an environmentally friendly way using natural ventillation even in a failry enclosed valley.

Blocks

The blocks used for the building will be made on site using soil excavated from an area which will then create an artificial wetland. The blocks only contain 8% cement and the rest is a mixture of the local soil (which has very high clay content) and river sand brought from the river less than 1km away. We have bought a Hydraform machine and will manufacture the blocks ourselves on site. This will create jobs for 11 of the local community: A much needed benefit in an area where there are no jobs at all.

Once the building is finished, it is hoped that the machine will continue to produce blocks for sale the the local market. We can also use them to build homes for orphans, substituting the cement blocks which we have used up to now. With the price of cement soaring and its availability decreasing, this may prove a popular technology.

The blocks are laid with mortar in the foundation, but just fit together without any mortar higher up. The finished wall resembles a face brick wall and does not necessarily require plastering, although this will be done in the hospice wards to improve infection control.

Double roofing

The main roof on the north facing side of the buildings will be shaded by a second roof. There will also be moveable overhanging shading for the windows on the northern aspect to prevent too much sunlight and heat in summer, but can be removed in winter to allow natural heating.

Waterless toilets (WCs)

We will use waterless toilets in most areas. This reduces the need for water and sewerage disposal. In these toilets, liquid evaporates and the dry waste gradually decomposes into a harmless substance which can be removed from the end chamber every few years. Airflow prevents nasty smells!

Solar power

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios have generously donated over 200 solar panels. These will be placed on the roof of the community offices to provide elecricity to the offices and hospice. It is anticipated that this will meet all our electricity requirements.