Tristan Leonard Master’s Degree in Architecture Student Technische Universität Berlin, Germany
As I reflect on my three-week internship with rise International in Lesotho, I am filled with gratitude and inspiration. This experience not only allowed me to apply my architectural knowledge in a real-world setting but also deepened my understanding of sustainable practices and community empowerment.
The Journey Begins
Arriving in Lesotho, I was immediately struck by the stunning landscapes and the warmth of the people. As a student from Germany, stepping into a different culture and environment was both exciting and challenging. However, I quickly realized that I was part of something much larger than myself—a community dedicated to making a positive impact.
My internship was part of a skills-sharing and learning program facilitated by the African German Youth Office. It was an incredible opportunity to collaborate with local professionals and fellow interns, sharing knowledge and skills while learning from each other’s experiences.
Making a Difference at Motimposo Primary School
One of my key projects was contributing to the finishing touches of the Motimposo Primary School kitchen. This kitchen is more than just a cooking space; it is a vital resource for the students and the community.
Using Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEB) for construction, we created an eco-friendly facility that aligns with rise International’s mission of sustainable building. Being part of this project, I witnessed firsthand how a well-constructed kitchen can enhance the daily lives of students by providing healthy meals and a safe environment.
Working on the Stadium of Life Project
In addition to my work at Motimposo, I had the incredible opportunity to contribute to the Stadium of Life project at Kick4Life. This initiative is a landmark endeavor in sustainable construction, showcasing the potential of using locally sourced timber and innovative building techniques.
During my time there, I focused on the roof of the west seating stand, where I collaborated with skilled craftsmen and other interns. The experience taught me not only about architectural design and construction but also about teamwork and the importance of integrating local resources into building practices.https://youtu.be/AHYjZL0SJnM?si=nua5kNoXol3YCZsb
Lessons Learned
As I reflect on my internship, I recognize the immense value of hands-on experience in architecture. The challenges we faced—whether they were technical, logistical, or cultural—pushed me to think creatively and adapt quickly. Working alongside the rise International team and local community members was a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration in creating meaningful change.
This experience has solidified my passion for sustainable architecture and community-focused design. I am more committed than ever to exploring innovative building practices that prioritize environmental sustainability while meeting the needs of communities.
A Heartfelt Thank You
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to rise International for welcoming me into their family, the African German Youth Office for facilitating this program, and the incredible people of Lesotho who shared their stories, culture, and insights with me. My time here has been transformative, and I look forward to applying what I have learned as I continue my studies and embark on my career in architecture.
Final Thoughts
Lesotho has left an indelible mark on my journey, and I am excited to take the lessons learned here into my future endeavors. Together, through sustainable architecture and community empowerment, we can create spaces that foster growth, connection, and resilience.
Thank you, Lesotho, for an unforgettable experience!
A New Outdoor Kitchen for Motimposo Primary School
We are thrilled to share the exciting news of our partnership with Motimposo Primary School to build a new school kitchen! This project is a testament to our commitment to improving the lives of communities through sustainable and impactful initiatives.
“When riseInternational told us they were looking to partner with us to build a school kitchen pavilion, it felt like a dream come true… It is challenging to feed all the kids when the weather is extremely dusty or rainy because our current cooking area is too exposed, making it difficult for food to be prepared.” Mr. Mafanti, Principal, Motimposo Primary School
The new outdoor kitchen, constructed using eco-friendly Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs), will provide a clean, safe, and hygienic environment for preparing meals for over 1,400 students. This project is not only about building a kitchen; it’s about creating a healthier and more conducive learning environment for our young learners.
Join Us in Building a Brighter Future
We believe in the power of collaboration to create lasting change. Your support is essential in helping us continue our work. Consider donating to the Motimposo Primary School kitchen project or supporting our youth empowerment programs.
Together, we can build a brighter future for generations to come.
Empowering Youth Through Employability Training
We are proud to announce the successful launch of our Employability Training Program in Kenya! This program equips young people with essential skills for the job market, including CV writing, job interviews, and communication skills. By providing practical work experience through internships, we’re helping young people gain the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
We are grateful to our partners, APS Bank, Uwepo.watamu, and our generous sponsors and work placement hosts for making this program possible.
Stadium of Life: A Beacon of Sustainable Construction in Maseru
Maseru, Lesotho – The heart of Lesotho is beating with excitement as the innovative “Stadium of Life” takes shape in Maseru. This 1,280-seater football stadium is not just another sports facility; it is a groundbreaking testament to the power of sustainable construction and community-driven development.
An Ambitious Collaboration
The “Stadium of Life” project is the result of a unique collaboration between several influential organizations. Local charity and football club Kick4Life (K4L), which has long been dedicated to empowering young people through sports and health education, joined forces with rise International, a non-profit organization focused on creating social enterprises and building resilient communities. Together, they have partnered with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), a global leader in promoting responsible management of the world’s forests, and DNV, an independent expert in assurance and risk management.
A Sustainable Vision
What sets the “Stadium of Life” apart is its commitment to sustainability. The stadium is being constructed primarily from sustainably sourced timber, a choice that not only reduces the carbon footprint of the project but also highlights the potential of eco-friendly construction methods in large-scale infrastructure. The use of timber, certified by the FSC, ensures that the materials are responsibly harvested, maintaining forest biodiversity and supporting local economies.
Community-Centered Development
The project has a strong community focus, engaging local workers and artisans in the construction process. This not only provides much-needed employment opportunities but also empowers the local community with skills and knowledge in sustainable building practices. The stadium is envisioned as a space that will serve the broader community, hosting not only football matches but also cultural and social events that bring people together.
Progress and Impact
As construction progresses, the “Stadium of Life” is already making an impact. The project has garnered attention for its innovative approach, setting a new standard for how sports infrastructure can be built in harmony with the environment. Upon completion, the stadium is expected to become a central hub for sports and community activities in Maseru, inspiring other projects in the region to adopt similar sustainable practices.
Looking Ahead
The “Stadium of Life” is more than just a sports venue; it is a symbol of what can be achieved when sustainability, community involvement, and innovative design come together. As the stadium nears completion, it stands as a beacon of hope and progress for Maseru and beyond.
Many First
The Stadium of Life notches several firsts. It will be Africa’s first FSC-certified timber stadium and the first FSC-certified project in southern Africa. The structure, certified by DNV as an FSC project, sets a new standard for responsible construction practices.
The wooden poles used in construction come from MTO Forestry’s FSC-certified plantations in Mpumalanga, South Africa. By choosing FSC-certified timber, the project directly supports responsible forestry practices.
Beyond sport, the stadium is a multi-purpose hub designed for climate change education, gender empowerment, academic tutoring, health testing, and entrepreneurship training.
The Stadium of Life fosters a connection between football and the environment. Its design, developed through a collaboration with rise’s in loco design and build training programme, features 8,584 treated Eucalyptus poles, minimizing concrete use and highlighting the potential of sustainable building materials.
Exiting my internship is not an end, it is a testament of learning from the best, and now, it is time to redefine what ‘best’ means in my own journey. I, Salome Mokhali, a 26-year-old Public Relations student from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, embarked on an exciting journey, eager to learn and grow. The opportunity to intern under the communications department has been nothing short of transformative to my career.
From the moment I stepped into the rise office, I was welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm. The team’s positive energy and commitment to their mission were palpable, making me feel right at home. I quickly realized that this was not just a workplace; it was a team dedicated to making a difference.
The most fruitful aspect of my internship has been the hands-on experience. From drafting press releases to managing social media posts, every task has been a learning opportunity. The mentorship I have received has been invaluable. With patience, my supervisors took the time to guide me through each task, offering insights and feedback that have sharpened my skills and broadened my understanding of Public Relations and communication as a whole.
Working at rise has allowed me to witness the power of collaboration. The team’s synergy is incredible. I have been inspired by the way everyone pulls together, combining their talents and expertise to create impactful community developments. It is a testament to what can be achieved when people are united by a common goal and being team players.
During my time with rise, I was able to see the handover of completed new toilet blocks which the organization had designed and constructed at Lithabaneng Primary School in partnership with Action Ireland Trust. I was also able to be part of the graduation ceremony celebrations of the fifth inloco graduation ceremony, a group of 9 fellows who had gone through 8 months of hands-on learning by doing program, as part of the design and construction of Kick4Life Stadium of Life.
As my internship draws to a close, I look back on my time at rise with immense gratitude. This experience has not only enhanced my skills but also reinforced my passion for Public Relations and Communication. I am excited to carry forward the lessons I have learned and the connections I have made as I continue my journey in this field.
No journey is without challenges, my internship was no exception. There were moments of self-doubt and instances where I felt overwhelmed by the fast-paced nature of the work. However, these challenges were instrumental in my growth. They taught me resilience, perseverance, and the value of stepping out of my comfort zone.
Thank you, rise, for an unforgettable experience. A special thanks to the team for making me feel at home from day one. I look forward to seeing all the incredible things this organization will achieve in the future!
Thank you for supporting our entrepreneurship development programs in Lesotho in the past. Thanks to your generosity, we have been able to graduate over 50 fellows from our design, build and entrepreneurship in loco program, 71% of whom have gone on to become Pioneers and created over 183 jobs for others as a result of the skills and business training we have provided them with thanks to your assistance.
JOIN THE RISE TOGETHER MONTHLY DONORSCLUB
Your support has already had an impact on our Pioneers’ Business Incubation Program and others who are following in their footsteps being our in loco program fellows. But the reality is, in order for us to continue touching more lives and spreading the impact to transform more job seekers into job creators, we need your help.
This year, we invite you to make your valuable support go even further by joining the rise Together Club – a monthly donating program to support our youth skills development and employment generation programs. Your ongoing monthly support will:
Contribute towards training more job creators
Provide business coaching for more entrepreneurs
Equip entrepreneurs with essential tools and workspace
You can easily sign up online here to make an impact without ever worrying about writing another cheque! (Unless you want to).
Become a rise Together Club member today and you’ll enjoy:
The knowledge that your donation is put to work immediately.
Monthly newsletters on the difference your dollars are making.
Hassle-free automatic monthly donations from your credit card.
The ability to change or suspend your donations at any time.
Complete statements provided for tax purposes.
The joy of knowing that you’re improving someone’s life.
Sponsor young Basotho through our Pioneer Business Incubation Program by making a $50 donation a month and experience the fulfillment of changing a life.
Alternatively you can also start a fundraising initiative on behalf of rise by simply visiting here where we have numerous fundraising opportunities for you.
We are thrilled to announce the release of rise International’s Bi-Annual Evaluation Report, highlighting the impactful work we’ve accomplished over the past two years. This comprehensive report encapsulates our dedication to sustainable development and community empowerment in Lesotho.
Key highlights of our achievements.
Thanks to funding from Irish Aid, rise International successfully completed an extensive research on Innovative Sustainable Building methodologies in Lesotho, paving the way for more environmentally friendly and cost-effective construction practices.
Through our ‘in loco’ learning-by-doing program, we have positively impacted over 17,600 lives in Lesotho, empowering individuals with practical skills and knowledge to thrive in their communities.
Fig 1 : in loco impact
rise International joined forces with the World Bank to address the critical issue of youth unemployment in Lesotho, working towards creating sustainable solutions for economic empowerment and job creation.
We are proud to continue our partnership with Action Ireland Trust (AIT) as their implementing partner. The ongoing 5 Hub Schools project, designed to enhance infrastructure and facilities in priority schools identified by the Ministry of Education & Training, has already brought essential amenities like running water toilets, boreholes, school kitchens, rainwater harvesting systems, and food gardens to communities in the densely populated Lithabaneng area in Maseru district.
Fig 2 : Opening of Seboka Primary School Kitchen
Our collaboration with local and international universities has enriched our programs with diverse perspectives and expertise, ensuring that our initiatives are at the forefront of innovation and best practices.
Fig 3: Uni of Malta Participatory Design Workshop Training
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our donors for their unwavering support. Without your generosity and belief in our mission, none of these achievements would have been possible. Your contributions have transformed lives, empowered communities, and paved the way for a brighter future for Lesotho.
As we celebrate these milestones, we are reminded of the collective impact we can achieve when we come together in solidarity and commitment to positive change. Together, we are shaping a better tomorrow for Lesotho.
My name is Sello Mohami, but most people know me as Macala. I am a 22-year-old Mosotho man and a certified Construction Management technician having graduated from Lerotholi Polytechnic in 2022.
Sello Mohami
I was born and raised in Maseru central Ts’enola-Motimposo where I got interested in this field of construction due to the lack of roads which leads to a lot of accidents and also lack of advanced infrastructure.
Later on relocated to the south side of Maseru which is Mazenod Ha Sekepe, where I was part of the team which designed and constructed my new home there, that is when I developed a deep love for construction and electric works. I was working directly with the bricklaying and electrical installation team and I was working there as unskilled labour, that is when I recognized how passionate I am with construction works. On the other hand I think I had a positive influence from my uncle who has been in construction for approximately 15 years. He is an experienced Bricklayer who has worked on various projects in Lesotho under Lesotho Steel Products. He has been supportive and very keen to help me grow in this industry.
Mohami on the construction site
I am a student-athlete at Kick4Life and this is where I learned about the in loco fellowship when I was introduced to the stadium of Life project by Kick4Life. Kick4Life knew how passionate I am in stadium construction and they helped me out to apply. I am very grateful to Kick4Life because now I am part of rise International 5th in loco fellowship because of their guidance.
As a fellow in the in loco program, I am privileged and proud to be part of 9 hard working mates where we are trusted to design and construct the 4th phase of Kick4Life – Stadium of LIfe. This is the unique project which uses FSC approved gum poles to construct stands and containers for dressing rooms. In the first months of the project I was given a role of being a site manager, this was quite a challenge because my work was to oversee all the site works and also to lead and come up with solutions.
As a construction manager people always think it’s easy for you to lead but it is never that easy to manage people with different attitudes and disciplines, but as i have always believe i was born a soldier i managed to overcome all the challenges and that is when i was confident about my career choice and i know construction site is my other home and leading people is my favorite meal. Later on I transitioned to being a Buyer where I was capable of preparing Bill of Quantities and procuring all material needed on site. In this role I improved mostly in preparing Bill of quantities, negotiating with hardware and individuals also learned to work within a tight budget.
Mohami on site
When I first joined the fellowship my goal was to graduate from it with all the skills needed in construction which are Plumbing, Bricklaying, Electrical installation e.t.c, But with the cohort I am learning beyond my goal as i am being given business modules where I am guided on how i can turn one of my milestone which is having my own Construction Company. The fellowship has helped me to improve my communication and leadership skills and also the most important part of construction which is being hand-on, meaning bringing the theory acquired from school down to the ground onsite.
Isaiah 60:22
“At the right time, I, the LORD, will make it happen”.This is my everyday motive, I rely mostly on the Lord’s timing. If things get worse I keep pushing until God presses His timer for them to get better.
I am Vasiliki, an architect engineer from Greece. During my master’s program in International cooperation in Sustainable and Emergency architecture in Barcelona, my passion for travel and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds led me to Lesotho for a three-month internship with rise international.
After this transformative journey and returning to the comfort of my home, it’s time to share the key aspects of it. Although every experience has its ups and downs, I’ve chosen to focus on the bright side and the new lens through which I now view life.
Working with rise international as an architect in Lesotho was a profoundly enriching and eye-opening experience. It provided me with a unique opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge to address real-world challenges and make a meaningful impact in a community that I grew to deeply appreciate. riseinternational’s mission to support sustainable development and improve the living conditions in Lesotho resonated with me from the very beginning. As an architect, I was part of a dedicated team working on projects that ranged from building infrastructure to community development. Our work aimed not only to create physical structures but also to empower the local community with the tools and resources needed for long-term growth.
Lesotho is a captivating country. Beyond the picturesque landscapes, the breathtaking waterfalls, and the endless mountains, there’s something extraordinary that words cannot fully capture. It’s the ideal place to regain your relationship with nature, to breathe and walk around the most beautiful scenery. It’s an experience you must live to truly understand.
Someone once told me that life’s experiences depend on how we perceive them. Every encounter and every moment shared with others provides us with a unique perspective, a new pair of glasses through which to view the world. If these perspectives resonate with us, we can wear them from time to time, gaining new insights along the way.
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes”
Marcel Proust.
To me, the real value of this experience lies in the people. I had the privilege to collaborate with. Despite our cultural differences and distinct backgrounds, they made me feel like I had discovered my rightful place. The Basotho people lead their lives in a simple, authentic manner, a way that I may have, in many respects, forgotten.
They are warm and have a natural gift for hospitality. They eagerly engage with newcomers, welcoming them into their homes and offering food and drink. In their company, I felt an instant connection to their community. They made an effort to familiarize me with their traditions and way of life but also to learn about my perspective of life and my culture.
Basotho people possess a sense of philotimo, a Greek term, which captures the essence of integrity, honour, and respect, shapes social interactions, fosters strong connections within communities, and underpins the sense of pride and identity. It’s a concept that is difficult to fully capture in words but is deeply understood and appreciated by those who embody it in their actions and relationships.
This experience has not only enriched my professional skills but also left a lasting impact on my perspective as an architect, reminding me of the profound impact we can have on communities in need. In Lesotho, I learned that it’s not just about discovering new landscapes; it’s about gaining new perspectives and insights by embracing the world through fresh eyes.
“Don’t tell me how educated you are, tell me how much you have traveled”.
This sentence from prophet Muhammad has always inspired me, even if I’m not particularly attached to religion, this specific one touches my soul since I heard about it, probably more than ten years ago. My parents instilled the love for travel in me since I was a child and as soon, I was “old” enough to travel by myself I immediately took the opportunity.
I am Emma Biraghi, a 20-years-old Italian woman and unlike all other people that had an experience with rise, I’m not an architecture student. I’m an Italian student of international politics and law and I wanted to do a voluntary experience during summer. The problem was that no organization gave me the possibility to go so far from home at such a young age; however, rise trusted me and, thanks to the fact that I knew the architect Luca Astorri, I managed to do this incredible experience.
When I booked the flight tickets I was scared out of my wits, I understood that I was about to actually go to Lesotho and the dream was becoming true. It was not only my first time in Africa, but also my first trip without my family nor my friends: I would have been completely alone. Fortunately, Daniela and Luca greeted me with open arms and the reality was not that scary.
I stayed in Maseru for two weeks, but those days were sufficient to make me fall in love with Lesotho: definitely one of the most amazing places I’ve ever been.
I left the hot Italian summer for winter, which probably is the thing I liked less about Lesotho; however, it gave me the opportunity to see some spectacular views from mountains and go horse-riding to see dinosaur footprints!
Apart from the beautifulness of the place itself, my voluntary experience was great too. Since I am not an architecture student, I worked with a partner of rise: Lesotho National Federation of Organisations of the Disabled (LNFOD) , an umbrella body that advocates for the human rights of persons with disabilities by representing their needs to government, private sector, and the entire community.
The time I spent with LNFOD gave me the opportunity to see a different way to do business: we’re used to imagining business meetings as a group of serious people with suit and tie, but in Lesotho things are different. I participated in a meeting for a microcredit project for women with disabilities in business and the most amazing thing to see was that everybody had the traditional clothes of the Sesotho culture, and they were singing the traditional songs, playing instruments and dancing during break time. This way of doing business shows a strong attachment with the tradition and the community that we lack in Western culture, especially in Milan, where I’m from.
The Basotho society are more traditional, they have such a strong and powerful connection with their community, they have great faith in the world, and they express that by contributing to the growth of their society; for a city dweller like me was incredible to have a contact with a sense of belonging that I never experienced in such a strong way.
Another thing that was unbelievable was the strong contact with nature: Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, is a small city where cows and sheep cross the road with the people! There are many huge parks and in 10 minutes by car from the center it is possible to reach the mountains and the spectacular views that they offer. I strongly believe that the closeness to nature is one of the main reasons why Sesotho people always smile and are so kind, just imagine that they say “Hello! How are you?” to every person they meet in the street.
Leaving Lesotho, I was surely a bit heartbroken, but I’m grateful to have discovered their social connection, which I hope I’ll keep with me now that I’m in Italy. Going on the opposite side of the globe totally shifted my way of looking at the world and opened my mind to visit many more places where I can discover a new perspective, as it happened in Maseru with rise International family.
The world’s industrial development and economic growth have resulted in a significant increase in solid waste, including plastic, cans, glass bottles, and paper, which pollute the environment by ending up in oceans and landfills (Vicelj, Sandanayake & Yap, 2022). Lesotho is no exception as it is facing a massive waste disposal management crisis that it cannot manage, with only 20% of waste being collected, and the remaining 80% being dumped illegally, plus an increasing amount of waste generated by growing commercial and household activities.
The Lesotho government’s strategy, as outlined in the National Environmental Policy 1998 and the Environmental Act 2008, is to design environmentally friendly waste disposal and treatment systems that encourage recycling. The building sector is constantly evolving in its use of materials with regard to sustainability. There is a need to use cost-effective, environmentally friendly materials and technologies that lessen the impact of construction in terms of its use of non-renewable resources. Hence, Lesotho has an opportunity to use waste materials such as glass bottles, cans, and plastics as construction materials, to address the need to manage waste (UNDP, 2021).
2. Categories of Waste Material for the Built Industry
Explored in this paper are four common waste materials; glass bottles, metal cans, plastic waste, and paper. All four were analysed according to the following areas:
Potential and/or evidence of use as a building material
Locally available
The potential of a sustained “affordable” supply of the material
Environmental impact on the re-purposing of the waste into building materials
2.1 Glass Bottles Used as a Building Material
To address Lesotho’s housing needs and waste management issues compounded by rural-urban migration and using glass as a building material can be a viable solution (UNDP, 2021). This technique has been used for centuries, with the ancient Romans using empty glass vessels to reduce concrete usage and lighten the load of upper levels of structures (Fatima, 2017). William F. Peck constructed the first glass bottle house in 1902 using 10,000 bottles (See Figures 1.1 & 1.2). Glass houses in South Africa by Kevin Kimwelle assisted the government in providing secure housing with construction that comprised 80% recycled materials.
Fig.1.1: A sample glass building Fig.1.2: Glass building
2.1.1 Techniques Used When Building with Glass
According to Fatima (2017), glass bottles are to be collected and sorted. About 14,000 bottles of uniform size are needed to make a two-bedroom bottle home. The walls can be made in many different ways, but are typically constructed by making a foundation filled with reinforcing bars (rebar); preferably metal that can be set to add stability to the structure. The walls are usually one or two bottles thick (Fatima, 2017). These walls function as a thermal mass when the glass bottles are filled with dark materials such as sand so as to absorb the solar radiation during the day and radiate it into the interior during the night. This feature can be pleasant in cooler climates but can turn a room into an oven in hot climates.
2.1.2. Advantages of Glass Bottles Buildings
The benefits of building with glass are that it is low cost, decreases the use of binding material and reduces landfill mass by making the bottle a renewable material (Fatima, 2017). Furthermore, glass bottles offer various aesthetics due to their opacity and color selection which creates an alternative to plastering. Fatima (2017), further states that the use of glass bottles could help increase the accessibility to houses due to their near-modular nature in comparison to conventional building methods.
Housing for economically disadvantaged households could be made more affordable by using glass buildings, which are estimated to cost only a third of the cost of a house made of concrete and bricks (Rukami, 2021). Glass bottle walls offer excellent thermal insulation because of the hollow bottles. A single layer of bottle walls can provide the same lagging as a three-layer brick wall. The walls also allow natural light to pass through when not filled with dark materials, providing natural lighting to the room if necessary (Rukami, 2021). It is also a waterproof and impervious material, making it a suitable material for building homes. Sharma (2017) suggests using glass bottles to build small houses as a means of reducing the amount of waste going to landfill.
2.1.3. Disadvantages of Glass Bottles
Without tempering or structural support, glass has poor resistance to impact, and is therefore unable to withstand an immediate load, which may result in breakage upon pressure or impact. Furthermore, it requires frequent cleaning, and in high-rise buildings, maintaining and cleaning the exterior can be difficult. The extensive use of glass may give rise to both real and perceived security concerns (Khanlari, Tuncer, Afshari & Socen, 2023).
As mentioned above, a glass wall is also an excellent conductor of heat with the potential of creating hotspots through a lens effect. In contrast, cold nights can also result in considerable heat loss because of the nature of glass.
2.2. Metal Cans Used as a Building Material
According to the UNDP (2021), metal cans make up 15% of waste in urban areas in Lesotho. As reported by Amosu in 2002, Michael Hönes, a German national who relocated to Lesotho, is credited with introducing the technique of utilizing cans in construction, and he is believed to have built the first can building in the country. (See Figure 2.1 and Figure 2.2)
Fig. 2.1, Can house built by Hönes in Teyateyaneng, Lesotho Fig. 2.2, Close-up of the Hones house illustrating tin can stacking
2.2.1. Application of Metal Cans
A popular way of utilizing cans in construction is by using the earthship wall technique, where the cans are horizontally stacked in a concrete matrix. The cans are laid side by side in alternating rows like bricks, with the concrete being thick enough to hold the cans in place. This method involves repeating the pattern of can-concrete-can until the wall is finished. To finish off the wall, it is typically covered with a layer of cement or adobe mixture, which varies depending on the location of the wall, such as a bathroom or bedroom (Khanlari, Tuncer, Afshari, & Socen, 2023). Alternatives to these include flattening the cans to layer them.
2.2.2. Advantages of Metal Cans
The process of creating blueprints and assembling the structure is relatively quick, which contributes to its affordability (Khanlari, Tuncer, Afshari & Socen, 2023). Additionally, metal cans provide good insulation, which can increase energy efficiency and lead to lower heating and cooling costs. Metal cans are highly durable building materials that can withstand severe weather conditions, including high winds, heavy snow, lightning, and hail. Moreover, metal can structures are an eco-friendly option compared to other building materials, as they are fully recyclable and require less energy to produce. Constructing tin can walls does not require advanced construction skills (Parker & Akbari, 2013).
2.2.3. Disadvantages of Metal Cans
According to Khanlari, Tuncer, Afshari & Socen (2023), the metal can wall technique is not load-bearing. Without support, metal cans can also buckle under pressure and collapse if they are not filled with earth or sand. In addition to this, most cans are prone to weather and atmospheric conditions[1][2] which could lead to corrosion if otherwise left unshielded. Another consideration is that of soundproofing in which case metal cans perform rather poorly against rain, hail, and even windstorms.
2.3. Plastic as a Building Material
Solid plastic waste has properties that make it a viable alternative building material. Plastic waste in Lesotho constitutes 69% of the solid waste, and due to high economic activity, it is available and accessible in many urban areas (Kumar, Biswas & Debarashi, 2020). This type of waste increases rapidly and is projected to continue to do so until there are controls in place for their use. There are two forms of plastic that are explored in some detail; plastic bricks which are repurposed recycled plastic material formed into standard-sized bricks and plastic bottles are used whole or in part for their structure and ability to hold other earth and other materials.
2.3.1. Plastic Bricks as a Building Material
These are already produced in Lesotho using a specialized manufacturing process to make standard-sized bricks. In order to make the bricks, plastic waste is first collected and separated by type. It is then treated, cleaned, and dried to remove any debris and moisture. The plastic bags and bottles are then melted at a temperature between 120-150 degrees Celsius, in a closed vessel to prevent the release of toxic gasses (Kumar, Biswas & Debarashi, 2020). Once the plastic is melted, river sand is added to the mixture and thoroughly mixed. According to Kumar (2020), the mixture is then poured into molds and left to cure for 2 days before being removed. (See Figure 3.1 & 3.2 ).
Utilizing plastic waste to produce bricks offers benefits such as reducing the amount of plastic going to landfills or ending up in Lesotho’s rivers and lakes and cutting down the need for resources used in other building materials like clay and cement. The built industry’s carbon footprint is thus reduced, with the potential to drive the growth of waste plastic bricks in the market (Kumar, Biswas & Debarashi, 2020). The demand for plastic bricks has increased exponentially due to rapid urbanization in recent years, making waste plastic in brick production a viable new business and employment opportunity. By replacing clay or cement with waste plastic, the strength and durability of bricks are not severely compromised (Kumar, Biswas & Debarashi, 2020).
The production cost of plastic bricks can be reduced by reusing waste polyethylene, which is more cost-effective and eco-friendly than using costly brick earth. Digging brick earth can have environmental consequences, and utilizing plastic waste instead can help address this issue (Kumar, Biswas & Debarashi, 2020). Plastic bricks have a smooth finish, low water absorption value, and are resistant to problems such as efflorescence, making them a desirable alternative to traditional bricks (Kumar, Biswas & Debarashi, 2020).
2.3.1.2. Disadvantages of Plastic Bricks
As per Kumar (2020), plastic bricks may be used in partitioning and exterior use only. Their average compressive strength when using the process above is 5MPa which means they cannot be used as load-bearing bricks. Secondly, the manufacturing process for these bricks yields toxic gases which contribute to air pollution. It is a process that requires high temperatures which also have environmental implications. Lastly, because of the mechanical nature of this process, there is specialized equipment that requires the importation of materials to Lesotho and skills to execute properly.
2.3.2. Building with Plastic Bottles
According to Froese (2017), it is possible to utilize plastic bottles as a substitute for bricks by filling them with either soil or sand, which enables them to function as building blocks for walls or pillars. Varying sizes and orientations of PET bottle walls can be constructed, and when filled with sand, these walls can bear up to 4.3 N/mm². While the plaster is responsible for two-thirds of the load, the bottles bear one-third. The space between the bottles is filled with plaster made of either clay or a cement mixture. Since only locally sourced materials are used, these houses are inexpensive and can be afforded even by impoverished families. Moreover, the construction process is relatively fast, and the first bottle house in the country was built in Mokhotlong (refer to Figures 4.1. and 4.2).
Fig. 4.1: Plastic bottle construction in Mokhotlong, Lesotho.Fig. 4.2: Close-up of the wall
2.3.2.1. Advantages of Plastic Bottles as a Building Material
In Lamba’s (2021) research, it is noted that utilizing plastic bottles as building materials provides various advantages such as durability, lightweight, water resistance, high elasticity, strength, corrosion resistance, and affordability. Compared to brick walls, plastic bottle walls filled with sand require less equipment and material costs, and also require less labor (Lamba, Kaur, Raj & Sorou, 2021). Reusing plastic bottles in construction projects has been shown to be effective in saving energy and reducing CO2 emissions by decreasing the percentage of cement used in manufacturing concrete blocks, according to Mojtaba et al (2012). The use of plastic bottle buildings has been recognized as a green project in the architecture and construction industry (Mojtaba et al, 2012) by elongating the life cycle of the material.
Furthermore, bottle houses are designed to be bioclimatic, which means that they are warm inside during cold weather and cool inside during warm weather (Mojtaba et al, 2012). The separation of various cost components indicates that using local labor to make bottle panels can result in a 75% cost reduction compared to building walls with bricks and concrete blocks (Lamba, Kaur, Raj & Sorou 2021).
The attribute of flexibility is known to enhance a building’s ability to withstand unexpected loads. Plastic bottles, being non-fragile, can exhibit flexibility and withstand sudden loads without failure, thereby improving the building’s load-bearing capacity. Moreover, plastic bottle walls have a water absorption rate of zero percent (Lamba, Kaur, Raj & Sorou, 2021).
2.3.2.2. Disadvantages of Plastic Buildings
There are concerns regarding the durability of recycled plastic bottles due to photodegradation caused by exposure to UV light. This degradation process can lead to reduced strength and increased brittleness over time, as well as the release of harmful toxins and microplastics that could potentially affect the health of occupants or contaminate groundwater (Sharma & Chandel 2017). Some argue that using plastic waste to create building materials may exacerbate the issue of plastic waste. It is important to note that plastic is a combustible material and can release toxic gasses in case of fire, posing a risk to occupants and the environment (Sharma & Chandel. 2017)
Unplastered or unrendered plastic bottle houses may have an unconventional appearance that is sometimes associated with poverty, and building and planning regulations may not permit them in certain jurisdictions, as pointed out by Sharma & Chandel, 2017.
2.4. Cellulose Paper Fiber
Energy efficiency in buildings is an important factor for the extreme temperate climate in Lesotho. The building and construction sector accounts for 30% – 40% of worldwide energy consumption, with a large part belonging to the need to heat and cool buildings. There are traditional insulation materials such as glass fiber, stone wool, expanded polystyrene, and polyurethane foam (Hurtado, Antoine & Virginie, 2015). While they are efficient in maintaining thermal comfort to the interior of a building, they are made with non-renewable resources and have a high embodied energy. Consequently, this has resulted in an increasing interest in alternative insulating materials that come from renewable or recycled fiber such as cellulose (Hurtado, Antoine & Virginie, 2015).
Cellulose is an eco-friendly thermal insulating material that has been around for centuries and has been used to insulate unfinished attic floors and existing closed walls. More than 70% of modern cellulose insulation is made from recycled newsprint, cardboard, and other paper types (Hurtado, Antoine & Virginie, 2015). However, in Lesotho cellulose insulation has not been widely used in comparison to the more traditional insulation materials.
2.4.1. Advantages of Cellulose Paper Fiber
Cellulose fiber has a low environmental impact, low embodied energy, and has similar insulation properties to synthetic materials. Greenhouse gas emissions and embodied energy of the buildings are reduced by up to 15% by replacing the rock wool insulation material with cellulose fiber (Hurtado, Antoine & Virginie, 2015).
The use of lightweight cellulosic paper as reinforcement in low-cost building materials is an interesting strategy for managing these by-products. Their functional properties, environmental and socio-economic benefits, and overall availability propose an appealing alternative. The indoor air humidity and comfort are affected appreciably by the transport of moisture between hygroscopic insulation and the indoor air. The indoor moisture buffering effect can be enhanced by employing high-density cellulose fiber insulation on the inner side of the buildings (Hurtado, Antoine & Virginie, 2015).
2.4.2. Disadvantage of Cellulose Paper Fiber
Cellulose insulation is known to absorb moisture easily, which can be a severe problem if a pipe bursts or if there is a bad leak in the plumbing. While other forms of insulation hold the excess moisture on the surface, cellulose absorbs it entirely. In fact, cellulose can absorb as much as 130% moisture by weight.
Furthermore, the material dries very slowly once the water is absorbed, leading to settling, deterioration, and mold growth. Too much water absorption can even destroy the chemical fire treatment for which cellulose is so well known (Hospodarova, Stevulova, and Sicakova, 2015)
It is prone to sagging and settling, a problem further exacerbated by the fact that it is several times heavier than comparable insulating materials, like fiberglass. The greater weight of cellulose naturally means that it is affected by gravity more than other materials, reducing the R-value of the insulation as the material sags and settles over the years (Hospodarova, Stevulova, and Sicakova, 2015)
3. Primary Explorative Research Findings on Packaging Waste
3.1. Research Methodology
To collect primary data, stratified and snowball sampling were convenient techniques for this study. It was imperative to undertake interviews with professionals and experts with over 10 years of experience, knowledge, and skills working with packaging waste, and the built industry in particular. This chapter presents a total of 15 interviews conducted from January to June 2023, the researchers conducted face-to-face interviews that lasted between 45 minutes to 1 hour each. Qualitative surveys (Check here for theResearch Questions)[1] were used to gain in-depth information, experiences, and narratives about some specific topics such as availability, accessibility, cost, durability, and environmental impact of extraction.
3.1.1. Availability of Packaging Waste
The purpose of the interview was to understand the availability of collected and unaccounted waste (cans, paper, plastic, and glass) in urban areas. Also to know the availability of plastic bricks produced in the country and the chain of supply of plastic needed to make the plastic bricks. To know the number of companies already building using plastic bricks. Fifteen of the Respondents showed that the proximity to urban areas does not guarantee the availability of waste (plastic, cans, paper & glass). Using Maseru as a case, the respondents stated that this is because only 20% of household waste is picked up by companies that get paid to collect it. The majority of the rest is collected by the Maseru City Council to take it to a landfill. This waste is accessible to select companies given authority by the officials and this limits who and what can be done with it.
Additionally, the respondents stated that of the waste collected, 69% of the plastic is sold to KHY Plastic recycling company. The Respondents indicated that waste (plastic, paper & cans) is seen as a means of income which in turn reduces the supply of waste to be used for building. Furthermore, the respondents stipulated that of the 80% unaccounted waste, burning is one of the biggest culprits, followed by illegal dumping. Respondents further specified limitations to waste available for the built environment has resulted in plastic bricks companies capping production at 500 units per week. This fails to meet the demands in the construction of houses. Therefore, proper management of waste is required, as well as introducing community members to other uses of waste especially in the built environment.
3.1.2. Cost of Packaging Waste
It was important to know the costs incurred during the collection, production, building and the selling price of the material. In costing these materials the respondents only considered plastic bricks since all other options were either theoretical or at the testing phase. Three Respondents showed that the overall cost of production, from collection to processing and building, is relatively cheap with variations by the type of waste and location. This is because waste is free when collected from illegal disposal sites and around villages. Also, the respondents (plastic brick suppliers) stipulated that there are existing alternative and competing marketplaces for trading plastic, paper, and cans while glass waste remains untapped and has been known to be given out for free. After selling to the KHY Plastic recycling company, surplus plastic costs M0.50 (EUR0.025) when it’s coloured and M1.50 (EUR0.075) when it’s white or transparent. This is the range of costs during the acquisition phase.
Additionally, during the production phase, three of the Respondents who manufacture plastic bricks disclosed that when producing plastic bricks they use open fires as they have not invested in buying machinery to keep initial investment capital costs low. Additionally, the Respondents indicated that the associated operational costs in producing the plastic bricks are cheap or free at this proof-of-concept stage. The Respondents indicated that they recognize that this limits production and they would need to significantly invest should they pursue growth via industrial production. This would require a minimum capital investment of M75 000 (EUR 3750) at the time of the interview to buy machinery. Lastly, labour costs are kept relatively low because there is minimal skill required under effective supervision.
Furthermore, it was important to know the selling price of plastic bricks from the already existing producers of the bricks in the country before advocating for it in comparison to conventional building materials. Twelve of the Respondents showed that in comparison with conventional paving bricks, plastic bricks are more expensive stipulating that paving bricks are M5.00 (EUR0.25) while concrete paving bricks are M2.50 (EUR0.13) each, but there are long-term benefits of using plastic bricks because the bricks require less maintenance and replacement, unlike conventional paving bricks.
3.1.3 Environmental Impact of Packaging Waste
It was important to know the impact of the production of plastic bricks, changing climatic conditions, and the benefits of using waste as building materials to the environment. Nine of the Respondents showed that the use of plastics, cans, glass, and cellulose paper has a tremendous impact on the environment due to the changing climatic conditions. Respondents emphasized that using plastic, paper, metal cans, and glass reduces the amount of waste and protects the environment from waste through repurposing of the materials.
Also with the changing climatic conditions, plastic bricks can be used to build bridges and roads as the plastic bricks are water resistant unlike concrete blocks and paving bricks which are easily damaged by floods. Additionally, Respondents showed that because of the cold winters that are experienced in the country cellulose insulation could contribute to thermal efficiency. Three of the Respondents conveyed that during the production phase of plastic bricks, there is a documented negative impact, in that the plastic is burned using wood or charcoal which leads to the emission of toxic gasses into the atmosphere. As a result, some Respondents are trying to shift away from burning plastic to purchasing the required machinery.
4. Feasibility of Packaging Waste
The respondents indicated that waste as a building material may cover an unfulfilled need for proper structures and affordable housing for urban populations since urban areas are where packaging waste is more readily available than in rural areas. The opportunity they see is a reduction of poorly constructed houses and slums. They also mentioned that due to concerns about the inability of packaging waste materials to be load-bearing, most packaging waste solutions can be incorporated with traditional construction materials for their superior thermal performance.
However, the Respondents expressed a concern regarding a shortage of skills needed to produce and use packaging waste products. Due to the theoretical or illustrative nature of these houses and products in Lesotho and South Africa, there is a concern from potential investors and entrepreneurs. At this stage, both on the supply side and demand side, Basotho’s perception of waste as a building material is that it is not a feasible value chain. The Respondents indicated that the competing industries such as KHY plastics, Mookoli scrapyard, and Ha Mokotso which takes 72 tonnes 12 times in a month perhaps because of their stage in maturity, have cornered the collectors and distributors market which bodes poorly for the built industry.
5. Distribution of Packaging Waste
20% of the waste in Lesotho goes to collection systems and recycling companies and 80% goes to illegal dumpsites. It could be diverted directly to entrepreneurs working towards promoting sustainable building materials as a way to design environmentally friendly waste disposal methods. Plastic, paper, and metal cans don’t require specialized transportation, care, or packaging which means processing plants and collection services can be set up for construction sites fairly easily. Glass bottles, however, are fragile, and require care and packaging. The largest bottleneck to the distribution of packaging waste is the legal framework which dictates who can pick it up from landfills under current policy.
6. Unmet needs on Packaging Waste as a Building Material
Exploring waste as a building material has not been introduced in full capacity as yet in the country as only a few unregistered companies have started using waste in the building industry, therefore its potential to be used and seen as a viable building material in Lesotho remains unknown. Also, the lack of documented reports about the exact number of plastic bottles, cans, and glass bottles going to landfill remains undocumented. The 80% of unaccounted waste could play a role in using waste as a construction material at an industrial scale. The lack of building codes especially for the use of recyclable construction material such as waste is a major restraint in the growth of the industry.
7. Conclusions
A significant consideration when looking at these packaging waste materials is the life-cycle cost to the environment in their production and use. By lengthening the life cycle of these materials, we’re effectively reducing the burden of its environmental impact by averaging it over a longer lifespan. This research was conducted comparative to currently used alternatives and the embodied carbon in these materials cannot be ignored. However, since we are considering these materials under the current policy in Lesotho, with the vision that the importation of many of these materials may change in the future, we cannot explore a quantitative approach to the environmental cost-benefit analysis of using them as an alternative.
Millions of metal cans, plastic, paper, and glass bottles are discarded every year into landfills, illegal dumping sites, or rivers. Sustainable reuse of packaging waste is mutually beneficial for both the environment as well as the construction industry. These construction techniques and materials and the associated benefits need to be promoted through educating the local community since they are the ones who will benefit the most from this low-cost construction. However, concerns linger over the viability and sustainability of businesses around their use in the built industry.
8. Recommendations
There are two considerations to make when assessing whether there is a feasible application of packaging waste as construction material. The first is whether businesses in this value chain are viable, and the second is whether they are sustainable. Since the only material explored beyond the demonstrative and proof-of-concept stages is the plastic brick, we shall focus on it in our recommendations.
From an environmental perspective, it is prudent to rule out the possibility that the impact of toxic byproducts does not outweigh the benefits of extending their life cycle. From an economic point of view, there are existing industries, such as fashion and homeware(Pheha Plastic), that pull some away from the supply base. But, from an optimistic perspective, this means there are supportive services around the transportation, distribution, and warehousing of packaging waste which can be diverted through better incentives from the built industry. The pricing of plastic bricks needs to be adjusted to scale since the current plants are too small to create a product that can compete with traditional bricks.
Colombian-based Conceptos Plasticos suggested that entry into the plastic brick construction industry should target institutionally supported and large projects. They mentioned that due to the high prices, it would be necessary to lobby large NGOs and international partners in Lesotho to back the use of plastic bricks by looking at their extended life-cycle in the built industry. Since these multilateral and multinational organizations have varied interests in Lesotho, it might be a strategic approach to highlight the socio-economic, financial, and environmental benefits of plastic bricks which checks boxes for their own in-country operations. They added that large construction projects like schools, pavements, and shelters would make for a compelling financial case due to the economies of scale.
As a secondary recommendation, processing cellulose paper seems like a low-hanging fruit for institutions to explore to create a competitive product in the insulation space.
Government is a key actor in the value chain of packaging waste and there are several things that can be done by the government in order for packaging waste to potentially become a feasible and accessible building material:
Building codes can be amended to promote and encourage the use of packaging waste as a building material.
The government can promote innovation so that packaging waste can be encouraged to be used more in buildings by supporting initiatives that introduce this innovation to the community at large.
There needs to be enforcement of government policies around waste management. This includes punishing offenders at illegal dumpsites and promoting the sorting of waste at waste management plants.
Government should track waste management activities as one platform by using a set of matrices making it easy to share and report information with stakeholders about the amount of waste available.
9. Appendices
Appendix A: List of Key Respondents
Respondent No
Name of Company/ Profession
Number of years of Experience
Profession
Respondent 1
Plastic Brick Producer
3 years
Individual brick contractor/Plastic brick maker
Respondent 2
Pheha Plastic
5 years
Founder
Respondent 3
Ministry of Environment
10 years
Environmental spet
Respondent 4
Maseru City Council
10 Years
Waste manager at MCC
Respondent 5
Nebulart Company
9 years
Designers of Plastic Brick making machine
Respondent 6
Organo-Pharma Ltd
5 years
Plastic brick constructor
Respondent 7
Boloka Bohloeki
16 years
Owns the company that in charge of the waste site Associations of Waste
Respondent 8
Solar lights
15 years
Architect who built using metal for
Respondent 9
Upscaling low-income houses ( Community architect
18 years
Architect in South Africa who works on upscaling
Respondent 10
Nomsa Plastic brick
1year
Plastic brick producer
Respondent 11
KHY Plastic ( plastic recycling company)
18 years
Owner of the recycling plastic company in Lesotho
Respondent 12
UNDP
7 years
Environmental Spet
Respondent 13
Cape Insulation
11 years
Professional Cellulose installer and marketing personal for the companyl
