Published Article

ABSTRACT

This study assessed technical considerations for earthen construction as a comprehensive review of standards, practices, and performance criteria. Three specific research objectives and corresponding research questions were developed, and a content analysis method was adopted in which relevant and related studies were examined to draw logical inferences. Evidence from the reviewed studies confirmed that the global landscape of technical standards for earthen construction is characterized by fragmentation, inconsistency, and incompleteness, while also affirming that the application of clearly defined technical requirements leads to measurable improvements in the safety, durability, and overall performance of earthen structures. Furthermore, findings from the third research question indicated that the development of a harmonized and unified set of technical specifications has strong potential to enhance the adoption and standardization of earthen construction practices worldwide. The study concluded that earthen construction, when executed in accordance with clearly defined technical requirements for material selection, structural design, moisture management, and quality control, can produce buildings that are safe, durable, and fit for purpose. Based on these findings, it was recommended that national and international standards organizations priorities the development of comprehensive and integrated technical standards covering all major earthen building systems—adobe, compressed earth blocks (CEB), rammed earth, cob, and cast earth—within a coherent framework, with clear guidance  materials, design, quality control, and maintenance; that governments, especially in regions where earthen construction is prevalent such as Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America, establish or adopt building codes that formally recognize these systems and provide clear regulatory pathways alongside minimum performance standards aligned with international best practices; and that procurement and funding frameworks, particularly in public and affordable housing sectors, be adapted to support earthen construction by recognizing its economic, environmental, and social sustainability benefits.