Author(s): Steven Beites
The dual crises of housing supply and climate change demand innovative solutions that transcend conventional policy approaches. This research, positioned at the intersection of sustainability and technology, addresses the critical issues of housing affordability, construction inefficiencies, and environmental impact. In response to escalating housing costs and a growing shortage of skilled labor, the Canadian government has set ambitious goals to double housing construction over the next decade. However, current efforts have fallen short of achieving these targets. Simultaneously, the built environment continues to be a major contributor to global carbon emissions. The presented research explores the integration of natural, renewable bio-based materials with advanced technologies and robotics to both decarbonize and enhance construction processes. The development of a semi-automated mobile platform combined with prefabricated bio-based materials provides a sustainable solution for scaling housing production while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The work led to an exhibition with government officials and industry leaders in attendance, underscoring the potential for more rapid, efficient, and environmentally sustainable practices in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector.
Volume Editors
Reed Kroloff & Francisco J. RodrÃguez-Suárez
ISBN
978-1-944214-52-4