Adobe as a Socially Appropriate Technology for the Southwest: Solar-Adobe Sundwellings

At a glance..

This paper is an attempt to assess the use of adobe as a modern building technology from the appropriate technology perspective. Therefore, it brings together discussion of the defining characteristics of appropriate technologies, social impact assessment of technology, and examines the use of adobe in light of the nation's energy/resource crisis and the increasing cost of housing.

The details..

In this book, John Timothy Mackey examines how adobe can be used as a socially appropriate technology to address the rising cost of housing and energy crisis in the Southwest. He delves into the social impacts of technology and emphasizes on Adobe's viability as a resource-saving building material that is economical to produce due to minimal transportation costs. Moreover, he highlights how it could potentially save scarce timber resources which would otherwise be utilized elsewhere.

Mackey also discusses how Adobe construction has been shown to have natural insulating properties that keep homes cooler during summer months while keeping them warmer during winter months thus reducing heating and cooling costs significantly compared with other materials. Additionally, he notes that constructing with adobe requires no special skills or machinery thereby creating more employment opportunities especially well-suited for cooperative building efforts.

The author further argues that well-made adobe structures are fireproof, decay-proof, termite-proof making them long-lasting even without maintenance barring serious earthquakes which may cause damage over time. Many people living in Southwestern regions are attracted by their graceful architecture earth colors soft lines beauty tranquility old Adobe emanated some longing entirely return environment made from Adobe bricks only.

Finally,Mackey explains why government officials have taken interest again in using Adobes: they offer incredible energy savings through natural heat storage processes within walls releasing warmth at night when temperatures drop outside providing comfortable indoor habitation at little or no additional cost.