Rammed earth construction has the potential to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) over time, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly building technique, beyond its characteristics as a natural building material.
It not only has a lower carbon footprint in the construction process, but provides long-term carbon reduction benefits.
Apart from the aesthetics, it is for this reason as well that we chose to build the Earth House farmstay at Haribagh near Jaipur in rammed earth. We started with some experiments building small walls to determine the right ratio of the sand, surkhi, lime, stone dust and the binding agent (cement) which we wanted to minimise.
The carbon capture capability of rammed earth is primarily due to the following factors:
- Natural Materials: Rammed earth is composed of natural materials such as earth, clay, sand, and a small amount of cement or lime. These materials are abundant and readily available, making them a more sustainable choice compared to energy-intensive materials like concrete.
- Low Embodied Carbon: The production of rammed earth materials generates significantly lower carbon emissions compared to materials like cement and concrete, which are known to have high embodied carbon footprints.
- Carbon Sequestration: The earth used in rammed earth construction can contain organic matter, which naturally sequesters carbon. Over time, these materials can absorb and store CO2 from the atmosphere.
- Thermal Mass: Rammed earth walls have high thermal mass, meaning they can absorb and store heat during the day and release it at night. This thermal mass reduces the need for mechanical heating and cooling, which in turn lowers energy consumption and associated CO2 emissions.
- Durability: Well-constructed rammed earth structures can have a long lifespan. The longer a building remains in use, the more significant its carbon footprint reduction, as it reduces the need for new construction.
It's important to note that while rammed earth has carbon capture potential, the extent of carbon sequestration depends on the specific mix of materials, construction methods, and maintenance.
Additionally, using sustainable practices, such as sourcing local and natural materials, can enhance the environmental benefits of rammed earth construction.
Rammed earth is part of a broader movement toward sustainable and low-carbon building practices that aim to reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry.
While its an old construction method, it is being adopted with modern designs and more scientific engineering nuances. As the world seeks more eco-friendly building solutions, materials like rammed earth are gaining popularity for their potential to contribute to carbon neutrality and sustainability.
Experience the rustic charm and strength of rammed earth at Haribagh farmstay near Jaipur.
