Proposal for a Centre for Appropriate Building Technology
Our vision is to develop a centre that supports and promotes the use of environmentally restorative building materials and systems. The YIMFY Centre will have two main areas of focus:
a centre for coordination of research, advice, and advocacy;
a destination site, built using successful natural building methods employing appropriate tech
Background;
The impact of human activities is stressing the Earth’s environment beyond its ability to cope. The construction industry is a major contributor to these stresses, and it is vital that we learn to build and repair buildings in ways that not only minimise damage, but actively contribute to the ecological health of the whole ecosystem. Appropriate technology means technology that is suited to time, place, culture and environment, using local materials to do useful work in ways that do the least possible harm. We need to be willing to live with the consequences of our technological choices, and share our learnings with others. Hence YIMFY – Yes In My Front Yard! It is the opposite of NIMBY – Not In My Back Yard, where any negative consequences of technology choices are inflicted on others, somewhere else. As a species we no longer have that luxury. The development of sustainable, healthy, and culturally appropriate building technologies is already happening at sites throughout New Zealand. The YIMFY Centre will be a hub to connect, support and grow this work, filling a crucial missing link in the NZ built environment research programme, and helping to bring the technologies into widespread use in New Zealand and potentially overseas. Areas of work:
Design and build a display centre using appropriate building technologies. Run the YIMFY Centre as a demonstration centre where individuals and groups can experience and learn about appropriate localised natural materials and resources. Host talks, workshops, and hands-on training programmes in appropriate building technology
Link, coordinate and generate research in appropriate building methods throughout New Zealand, and make that information available. Support the development of affordable, effective and culturally appropriate methods to improve existing buildings. Provide expertise to support both owner-builders and construction professionals. Work to get appropriate systems accepted for NZ Building Code compliance. Coordinate and cooperate with overseas centers doing similar work
Who are we? The steering group has substantial theoretical and practical expertise in sustainable architecture and building, community involvement, and successful project development.
