Willow Technologies Transforms Agricultural By-Products Into Building Materials in Ghana

Introduction

Willow Technologies is a material research and building technology practice that focuses on the development and utilization of bio-based building materials in Ghana. Founded by Mae-Ling Lokko, a Ghanaian-Filipino designer and architectural scientist, the practice aims to explore the potential of agro-waste and bio-based materials for sustainable construction. This article highlights the work of Willow Technologies in transforming agricultural by-products into building materials and emphasizes the importance of their research in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Research and Development

Willow Technologies conducts comprehensive research on various agricultural by-products, including coconuts, moringa, rice, and other indigenous crops. The practice investigates the material characteristics of these crops, explores local transformation techniques, and assesses the prospects and challenges of scaling them into building materials. By repurposing agro-based products, Willow Technologies aims to address technical questions related to scalability, industrial production, standardization, fireproofing, and mechanical strength.

Application in Projects

Willow Technologies has implemented their research findings in various projects in Ghana. For example, they have used rice plants and coconut pith as core components in a bioswale project in Accra’s Efua Sutherland Park to mitigate flooding. They have also collaborated with Global Mamas to treat textile wastewater using moringa flocculants, reducing its toxicity to meet environmental regulations. Additionally, Willow Technologies has utilized coconut husks as a building material, taking advantage of their structural properties and low-carbon footprint.

Challenges and Opportunities

Changing the perception of bio-based materials and increasing their demand is a significant challenge faced by Willow Technologies. The practice believes that design plays a crucial role in shifting cultural perception and attracting people to adopt these materials. They also emphasize the importance of developing a distributed production infrastructure for biomass from food, agricultural, and building cycles. Collaboration between stakeholders in the agricultural and building sectors, as well as government support and policy incentives, are essential for scaling up the use of agro-based by-products in building materials.

Conclusion

Willow Technologies’ work in transforming agricultural by-products into building materials contributes to the achievement of the SDGs, particularly Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). By utilizing local resources and promoting sustainable construction practices, Willow Technologies demonstrates the potential for bio-based materials to drive down carbon emissions and create a thriving bio-economy. Their research and projects serve as a model for other regions and industries seeking to adopt sustainable building practices.