The Ministry of Housing is working to identify new building designs and innovative building technologies as it seeks to upgrade housing schemes across Barbados.
Minister of Housing Dwight Sutherland says they have committed to providing 2000 housing solutions yearly between the public and private sector.
He was speaking at the Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference.
Among the new technology being considered is sugarcrete, which is sugarcane bagasse mixed with sand mineral binders to produce bricks that have a carbon footprint six times smaller than traditional bricks.
Furthermore, officials are seeking to integrate the autoclaved aerated concrete products into the island’s building design and construction practices, with a view to reducing indoor air quality issues.
Meanwhile, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education Sandra Husbands says rebuilding the built environment will provide the world with trillions of dollars in gross domestic product.