ANNOUNCEMENTS
The construction industry’s extensive use of modern, industrial materials such as concrete and steel has emerged as a major contributor to global carbon emissions. In India, where rapid urbanization continues to reshape the built environment, the need for low-carbon, climate-resilient construction is both urgent and essential. This study explores the potential of indigenous building materials and techniques such as adobe, cob, lime plaster, bamboo, and rammed earth as sustainable alternatives to mainstream construction methods. These traditional practices, deeply rooted in India’s diverse climatic and cultural regions, are often undervalued despite their proven environmental efficiency and cultural relevance.
The research employs a mixed-method approach, including an extensive literature review, stakeholder interviews, field visits, and case study analysis of successfully implemented indigenous construction projects. Additionally, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of selected traditional materials is conducted to quantify their environmental performance in comparison to conventional materials. The study further evaluates socio-economic aspects such as local employment, community participation, and preservation of vernacular knowledge.
Findings from this research reveal that indigenous techniques offer not only a significant reduction in embodied carbon but also improved thermal performance, affordability, and social value. However, challenges remain in terms of policy support, urban scalability, technical validation, and skill transmission. By bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary architectural practices, this research presents a holistic framework for integrating low-carbon indigenous methods into mainstream urban development.
The thesis contributes to existing literature by addressing a key gap: the lack of a comprehensive, scalable model that combines environmental data with socio-cultural realities. It provides practical recommendations for policymakers, architects, and urban planners committed to sustainable development in India.
Keywords: Low-carbon architecture, Indigenous knowledge, Net-zero construction strategies, Sustainable building materials and techniques, Climate-resilient architecture.
