Interview with Mike Devéria, retired mechanical engineer and quality manager, certified European straw bale builder, board member of the European Straw Building Association, ESBA. Mike’s goal: to promote straw bale building as a better alternative to the unsustainable contemporary construction industry, especially in Ukraine where there is an infinite amount of natural building material.
Interview is taken by Kateryna Pylypchuk, strategic business development advisor of Modulina Straw Panels.
Kateryna: Mike, can you share your perspective on how sustainable construction trends have evolved globally?
Mike: Absolutely, Kateryna. We’re seeing a gradual but steady increase in interest towards bio-based construction, primarily driven by concerns over climate change and the urgent need to reduce CO2 emissions. Although the adoption of materials like straw bales is still in its infancy, there’s a growing curiosity among individuals wanting eco-friendly homes. Industrial construction is also witnessing a shift with materials like Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) gaining traction. However, the pace of adoption needs to significantly accelerate to combat climate change effectively.
Kateryna: What are some key innovative technologies or materials reshaping the industry today?
Mike: The construction industry is being revolutionized by materials like CLT, straw bales, hempcrete, and earth bags. These materials not only offer sustainability but also open up new avenues for architectural design and efficiency.
Kateryna: Reflecting on your career, what advice would you offer to newcomers in the construction profession?
Mike: The construction industry, as it stands, is unsustainable. The massive energy required to produce and transport concrete and steel is a significant concern. We have an abundance of natural, sustainable materials like wood, straw, and hemp. Embracing these can make a substantial difference in the industry’s impact on the environment and the health of workers and homeowners alike.
Kateryna: Looking ahead, how do you envision the integration of sustainable materials like straw panels in future construction practices?
Mike: Straw is a remarkable resource. Its global abundance, low material costs, and minimal transport pollution make it an ideal candidate for sustainable construction. By utilizing straw bale modules, we can significantly streamline the construction process, making it faster and more eco-friendly.
Kateryna: What sustainability challenges should the construction industry prioritize?
Mike: The industry must acknowledge the reality of our climate crisis and pivot towards sustainable practices. This involves educating company management about the benefits of bio-based materials, training personnel, and collaborating closely with architects to explore new materials and methods while maintaining profitability.
Kateryna: Where do you see the greatest opportunity for innovation in architectural design with eco-friendly materials?
Mike: The potential for mass production of straw bale panels and modules is immense. This could lead to a significant increase in eco-friendly housing across Europe, offering a wide variety of designs and contributing to sustainability on a large scale.
Kateryna: How can industry professionals better incorporate sustainable solutions into their projects?
Mike: Starting with straw bale modules for insulation is a good first step. Learning about the thermal inefficiencies of traditional concrete and steel and transitioning to wooden frameworks can greatly enhance sustainability.
Kateryna: What approaches have been successful in promoting sustainability within construction projects?
Mike: Encouraging people to visit straw bale houses to experience their comfort and benefits firsthand has been effective. Education on the long-term savings and environmental benefits is key to changing perceptions.
Kateryna: How do you balance environmental preservation with the demands of modern construction?
Mike: The reality is that modern construction must evolve. We can’t meet international climate change goals without fundamentally changing our construction practices to be more sustainable.
Kateryna: How can education and awareness in sustainable construction be enhanced?
Mike: Construction education needs a paradigm shift to incorporate bio-based design and construction techniques as standard practice. This is critical for nurturing a new generation of construction professionals who prioritize sustainability.
Kateryna: Discussing straw panels specifically, what are the benefits and challenges of using bio-based materials in construction?
Mike: Straw panels offer numerous advantages, including controlled production conditions and the ability to build under any weather. However, transporting large modules and the need for specialized equipment on-site present challenges that need addressing.
Kateryna: Lastly, what strategies are crucial for reducing carbon emissions in the building industry?
Mike: Educating the industry about the unsustainability of traditional materials and promoting the use of sustainable alternatives is crucial. Additionally, preparing farmers to produce straw that meets the construction industry’s specifications is equally important.
Kateryna: Mike’s, your insights provide a compelling vision for the future of sustainable construction and envision the straw revolution. With the right approach, materials like straw can not only revolutionize the industry but also play a pivotal role in combating climate change. As we move forward, the integration of bio-based materials into construction practices not only offers a path towards sustainability but also a model for industries worldwide to follow. Thank you for your time.
