Promoting eco-friendly construction through innovative products | New Day

Summary

Ria Canlas, the founder of Polite Technology, discusses her company's innovative approach to sustainable construction with Eco Hollow Blocks and Eco Couture Panels. These eco-friendly materials, which eliminate cement and reduce carbon emissions by over 40%, offer cost and time efficiency while enhancing building aesthetics. Despite challenges in the industry, Ria believes that a shift toward sustainable solutions is inevitable. Her work is revolutionizing the construction sector by providing green, lightweight, and easy-to-install alternatives, significantly contributing to environmental goals and reshaping modern construction practices.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ria Canlas is the founder of Polite Technology Incorporated, a company focused on promoting eco-friendly construction through innovative materials.
• 😀 Ria's company developed Eco Hollow Blocks and Eco Couture Panel Systems, which have won the Grand Prix Malasakit Award in 2019 for their design.
• 😀 The main goal of Polite Technology is to replace 60% of conventional materials in construction with sustainable alternatives.
• 😀 The Eco Hollow Blocks are made from hybrid organic and natural binders combined with locally sourced, non-extractive materials.
• 😀 The use of Eco Hollow Blocks eliminates cement from construction, reducing global carbon dioxide emissions by over 40%.
• 😀 Cement production contributes to 8% of global carbon emissions, and eliminating its use in construction significantly reduces environmental impact.
• 😀 Eco Hollow Blocks are lightweight, cost-effective, and reduce the need for plastering and painting, leading to a 25% cost reduction.
• 😀 These eco-friendly blocks also offer time efficiency, reducing construction time by more than 80% due to their easy installation.
• 😀 The Eco Hollow Blocks and Eco Couture Panels are water-resistant, fire-resistant, chemical-resistant, and highly durable.
• 😀 Ria believes that by 2030, most construction companies in the Philippines will shift toward environmental solutions, in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Ria Canlas and Polite Technology Incorporated?

Ria Canlas and Polite Technology Incorporated focus on promoting eco-friendly construction through innovative materials and products, such as Eco Hollow Blocks and Eco Couture Panel Systems, which aim to address environmental challenges in the construction industry.

What are the key challenges the construction industry faces when transitioning to sustainable practices?

The construction industry faces several challenges in adopting sustainable practices, mainly due to the traditional use of conventional materials. Many companies are profit-oriented, making it difficult for them to switch to more sustainable options. Additionally, there is resistance to change and a lack of awareness regarding the long-term benefits of sustainability.

How does the construction boom in the Philippines impact the environment?

The construction boom in the Philippines contributes to environmental degradation due to the widespread use of traditional, resource-intensive materials. This, in turn, leads to increased carbon emissions and waste production, which negatively affect the environment.

What innovative materials are used in Polite Technology's products to address environmental issues?

Polite Technology's products, including Eco Hollow Blocks and Eco Couture Panel Systems, use hybrid organic and natural binders along with locally sourced, natural micro-sized geo-materials. These materials are non-extractive and abundant in nature, helping to reduce the carbon footprint associated with conventional construction materials.

How do the Eco Hollow Blocks contribute to reducing carbon emissions?

The Eco Hollow Blocks contribute to reducing carbon emissions by eliminating the use of cement in their production. Cement production is responsible for around 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, and by replacing it with more sustainable alternatives, Polite Technology reduces carbon emissions by over 40%.

What are the aesthetic qualities of the Eco Couture Panel System?

The Eco Couture Panel System offers a natural aesthetic, providing a beautiful look with an instant brick or tile appearance. The system is customizable, allowing for different colors and textures to suit various design preferences.

What are the key benefits of using Eco Hollow Blocks for housing construction?

The key benefits of using Eco Hollow Blocks include cost efficiency (with savings of up to 25% compared to traditional materials), time efficiency (reducing construction time by over 80%), and high-quality performance. These blocks are lightweight, water-resistant, fire-resistant, and chemically resistant, making them a durable and sustainable alternative.

How do Eco Hollow Blocks impact the overall cost and construction time?

Eco Hollow Blocks help reduce overall construction costs by eliminating the need for plastering and painting, as the materials themselves provide a finished surface. Additionally, the lightweight nature of the blocks makes them easier to handle, reducing labor costs and significantly speeding up the construction process.

Are Eco Hollow Blocks environmentally friendly in other ways besides reducing carbon emissions?

Yes, Eco Hollow Blocks are environmentally friendly in multiple ways. They are made from natural, locally sourced materials, which reduces the environmental impact of transportation and resource extraction. Additionally, the use of hybrid organic binders eliminates harmful pollutants that would typically be released during cement production.

How can the Eco Couture Panel System be applied outside of housing construction?

The Eco Couture Panel System can be used in various other construction forms, including commercial buildings, public spaces, and even in the creation of green furniture pieces and novelty products. Its versatility and aesthetic appeal make it suitable for a wide range of applications.