Life Cycle Assessment of Low Cost Housing in Indonesia

Introduction

Indonesia faces a growing demand for housing due to rapid urbanization and population growth. As a result, the construction of Low Cost Housing has become a crucial aspect of national development. However, this surge in housing development has led to an increase in the demand for building materials, many of which have negative environmental impacts. To assess these impacts, the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method is utilized. LCA provides a comprehensive evaluation of the environmental footprint associated with Low Cost Housing, focusing on energy consumption and carbon emissions throughout the building process.

This study examines the environmental impact of different types of Low Cost Housing in Indonesia, specifically types 21, 36, and 45. The analysis considers the materials used in construction and evaluates the relationship between material volume, Embodied Energy (EE), and Carbon Emission (CE). The findings highlight the environmental challenges associated with Low Cost Housing and suggest strategies to mitigate its ecological footprint.

Methodology

To conduct a detailed environmental impact assessment, data on building materials were gathered from multiple developers engaged in Low Cost Housing projects. The analysis included:

1. Material Data Collection: The study compiled data on the types and quantities of building materials used for different housing types.
2. Application of LCA: The LCA method was applied to measure the environmental impacts based on material usage and energy consumption.
3. Indicators of Environmental Impact: The primary indicators used were Embodied Energy (EE) and Carbon Emission (CE), which provide insight into the energy requirements and greenhouse gas emissions of the housing units.

The research compared the environmental impact across the three housing types and examined the correlation between housing size, material volume, and environmental burden.

Findings and Analysis

The study’s findings indicate that the values of EE and CE increase linearly with the expansion of housing areas. This means that as the size of Low Cost Housing units increases, the associated energy consumption and carbon emissions also rise. However, a more nuanced analysis reveals additional insights:

1. Impact of Housing Size on Energy Consumption:
   • Type 21 houses, despite being the smallest, exhibited higher EE and CE per square meter compared to Type 45 houses.
   • The total energy requirement for constructing two Type 21 houses was greater than that for one Type 45 house of the same total square meterage.
2. Role of Material Volume:
   • The amount of building material significantly influences both EE and CE.
   • Larger volumes of materials, particularly those with high embodied energy, contribute to higher environmental impacts.
   • Materials such as cement and steel, commonly used in Low Cost Housing, are major contributors to energy consumption and emissions.
3. Environmental Trade-offs in Housing Development:
   • While increasing house sizes provide better living conditions, they also lead to greater environmental burdens.
   • Sustainable alternatives, such as using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs, should be considered in Low Cost Housing projects to balance affordability and sustainability.

Recommendations for Sustainable Low Cost Housing

Given the environmental concerns associated with Low Cost Housing, it is essential to implement strategies that reduce its ecological footprint. The following recommendations can help achieve more sustainable housing solutions:

1. Use of Sustainable Building Materials:
   • Incorporate recycled or locally sourced materials to minimize carbon emissions.
   • Explore alternative materials such as bamboo, compressed earth blocks, or recycled concrete.
2. Energy-Efficient Construction Techniques:
   • Optimize design to reduce material waste and energy consumption.
   • Implement modular construction methods to improve efficiency and minimize waste.
3. Renewable Energy Integration:
   • Encourage the use of solar panels and other renewable energy sources in Low Cost Housing developments.
   • Implement passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation and shading, to reduce energy use.
4. Government and Policy Support:
   • Develop policies that promote the adoption of sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs.
   • Provide incentives for developers who prioritize eco-friendly construction methods in Low Cost Housing projects.

Conclusion

The rapid expansion of Low Cost Housing in Indonesia addresses a critical social need but also raises environmental concerns. The study highlights that the demand for building materials, coupled with inefficient housing designs, contributes to increased energy consumption and carbon emissions. By adopting sustainable practices, such as using environmentally friendly materials, implementing energy-efficient designs, and integrating renewable energy, the negative environmental impact of Low Cost Housing can be significantly reduced.

A balance between affordability and sustainability is essential for future Low Cost Housing projects. Policymakers, developers, and stakeholders must work together to create solutions that not only meet housing demands but also ensure environmental sustainability. By embracing innovative approaches and sustainable technologies, Low Cost Housing can evolve into a more environmentally responsible sector, contributing to Indonesia’s broader goals of sustainable urban development.

For further reading:
Life cycle assessment of low costs housing in Indonesia

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