Duncan Ward, the visionary behind Classroom of Hope, leads an initiative constructing resilient schools in remote regions of Rwanda, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Indonesia. With 84 schools established, they've empowered over 24,000 students. Notably, in June 2021, they pioneered the world's inaugural Block school and APAC's premier Block Home, utilizing innovative Block Solutions technology and recycled plastic. Their ambitious plan includes erecting 200 Block schools and 4,000 Block homes in Indonesia, fostering a circular economy through plastic waste utilization. Tune in to this series dedicated to Block Solutions—don't miss out on parts one and three! Happy listening!
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Show Notes: Episode - "Common Sense for Better Construction: Building a Sustainable Future with Block Solutions"
Introduction:
- Welcome to another episode of "Common Sense for Better Construction," where we bridge the information gap to help you reach a brighter future in the built world.
- Today's episode is sponsored by Creative Interface Architecture and Interiors, dedicated to making sustainable construction practically impactful. Visit www.creativeinterface.design for more information.
Host Introduction:
- Host: James
- James introduces the episode as the second in a three-part series, focusing on a remarkable individual making a difference in sustainable construction.
Guest Introduction:
- Guest: Duncan Ward
- Founder and CEO of Classroom of Hope, a purpose-driven organization providing access to life-changing education for children in developing countries.
Overview of Classroom of Hope:
- Classroom of Hope's mission is to provide access to education to children in developing countries by partnering with local NGOs for school building programs in rural communities with high poverty and disaster zones.
Introduction to Block Solutions:
- Duncan shares how the 2018 earthquakes in Lombok, Indonesia, led to the search for sustainable and earthquake-resistant building solutions.
- The focus on recycled plastic waste as a resource, with Block Solutions standing out for its technology.
- Blocks made of recycled plastic allowed for the construction of a five-classroom school in six days, a significant improvement in efficiency.
Impact and Achievements:
- Duncan emphasizes the positive aspects of using recycled plastic blocks: reduction of carbon emissions, building structures that last over 100 years, and creating a new circular economy.
- Classroom of Hope's partnership with Block Solutions has led to the construction of six block schools and two block homes in Lombok.
- Formation of Block Solutions Indonesia with plans to build the first block factory in Q4 2022 and a pipeline for 200 schools and 4,000 homes over the next decade.
Overcoming Challenges and Local Reception:
- Duncan highlights the importance of understanding local requirements and involving communities in the decision-making process.
- Positive local feedback, integration of environmental education into the curriculum, and the adaptability of local contractors to the modular building system.
Impact on Pollution and Waste:
- Building one classroom or home removes approximately 1.3 tons of plastic waste, contributing to a cleaner environment.
- The potential for significant global impact when scaled across multiple factories and regions.
Private Sector Engagement:
- Discussion on how the private sector, including industries like mining, has shown interest in using recycled plastic blocks for various purposes, contributing to ESG goals.
Limitations and Adaptations:
- Duncan shares that the modular nature of the blocks reduces the margin for error compared to traditional bricks and mortar.
- Local contractors adapted quickly, enjoying the process due to the lightweight and modular features of the blocks.
Momentum and Future Plans:
- Duncan outlines the grand vision of Block Solutions and Classroom of Hope, aiming for 800 factories globally and expanding disaster relief programs.
- The potential to impact millions of unlivable homes in Indonesia and beyond, with significant interest from government officials across Asia and Africa.
Call to Action:
- Support needed includes raising funds for Block Solutions, creating a scalable global structure, and connecting with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Red Cross.
- For more information about Classroom of Hope, visit classroomofhope.org, and explore Block Solutions at goodblocksolutions.com.
Closing Remarks:
- Thank you for joining "Common Sense for Better Construction," sponsored by Creative Interface Architecture and Interiors.
- Visit www.creativeinterface.design for more information on their impactful designs.
Outro:
- Stay tuned for more episodes in this three-part series on Block Solutions. Check out parts one and three for a comprehensive understanding.
- Enjoy the journey towards a sustainable and better-built world with "Common Sense for Better Construction."