The Real Cost of Ignoring Sustainable Housing Solutions

 

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As homelessness becomes increasingly visible in cities across the world, the need for affordable and safe housing solutions has never been more pressing. However, many cities are opting for quick fixes like temporary shelters and hostile architecture rather than addressing the root of the problem. This blog post explores why sustainable building materials offer a better solution for creating long-term, affordable housing and why this approach matters more than ever.

The Problem with Temporary Solutions

Many cities have turned to temporary measures like shelters or defensive architecture to manage the visibility of homelessness. While these measures may temporarily reduce the presence of homeless individuals in certain areas, they fail to address the underlying issue of homelessness. For example, in Portland, Oregon, millions of dollars have been spent on installing boulders and benches designed to keep homeless individuals from setting up camps in public spaces (Wandalowski, 2021). While this may make some public spaces appear more orderly, it does nothing to help those who need a permanent place to live.

These temporary solutions are not only ineffective but also costly in the long run. Shelters, for instance, require constant funding and upkeep, yet they don’t provide the stability and security that permanent housing offers. Moreover, these short-term fixes often come with environmental costs. Temporary shelters and hostile architecture are usually constructed from non-sustainable materials, contributing to environmental degradation and waste.

Why Sustainable Building Materials Matter

Sustainable building materials offer a more viable solution to the housing crisis. Materials like recycled steel, bamboo, and hempcrete are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. For instance, recycled steel can be sourced from old appliances or vehicles, reducing the need for new raw materials. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that can be harvested sustainably, while hempcrete is a natural, carbon-negative material that provides excellent insulation.

In addition to their environmental benefits, these materials can significantly reduce construction costs. The National Institute of Building Sciences found that using sustainable materials can cut costs by up to 30% compared to traditional building methods (National Institute of Building Sciences, 2018). This means that cities could potentially build more housing units for the same amount of money, helping to alleviate the housing crisis more effectively.

The Long-Term Benefits of Sustainable Housing

Building with sustainable materials not only addresses the immediate need for affordable housing but also offers long-term benefits. Sustainable homes are often more energy-efficient, which reduces utility costs for residents—an important consideration for individuals who are already struggling financially. By lowering energy costs, sustainable homes help make housing more affordable over time.

Moreover, sustainable housing contributes to environmental preservation. As climate change continues to threaten our planet, reducing our carbon footprint is crucial. By using materials that are renewable, recyclable, or carbon-negative, we can build homes that are not only affordable but also environmentally responsible.

Conclusion

Ignoring sustainable building solutions in the fight against homelessness is a costly mistake. Sustainable housing offers a practical, cost-effective solution that can help address both the immediate and long-term needs of homeless individuals while also protecting our environment. By investing in sustainable materials, we can build a future where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing, and where our planet’s resources are used responsibly.

Why should you care? Because the choices we make today will shape the world for future generations. Supporting sustainable housing initiatives helps create a future that is both equitable and environmentally sustainable.

Click one of the links below to learn more or contribute to the cause.

References

National Institute of Building Sciences. (2018). Whole Building Design Guide. Retrieved from NIBS

Wandalowski, Z. (2021). Hiding homelessness through hostile architecture only hurts the community. The Diamondback. Retrieved from The Diamondback