OBJECTIVES: The specific objectives for this workshop are:

1) To critique different experiences with the use of earth-based bricks and the structural challenges that limit their widespread adoption based on selected case studies of earth-based technologies;
2) To define potential strategies for enhancing the structural and mechanical properties of earth-based bricks for building systems in different regions of the world using selected examples;
3) To define potential strategies for enhancing the durability of earth-based bricks;
4) To develop a plan for educating stakeholders on quality control concerns.

THEME: The main themes for the workshop are as outlined below:

• Making a case for earth-based bricks using a holistic comparison of different examples of walling materials (stabilized bricks, fired bricks, concrete blocks);
• Characterizing the general performance of earth-based bricks;
• Addressing key structural concerns with the use of earth-based bricks;
• Identifying optimal design responses to contextual challenges in the use of earth-based bricks, and;
• Defining collaboration opportunities and future directions.