Dissertation

Abstract

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A significant number of African countries are experiencing rapid urbanisation and poverty, leading to the development of slums and squatter settlements. The overpopulated slums cause many problems for habitats; lack of basic amenities, high unemployability, drug and alcohol abuse, poor sanitation and rapid urbanisation, ultimately reducing available farmland. As African countries continue to develop, the slums are left neglected by society.

 

Sustainability has taken significant importance, especially in architecture, where architects are challenged to design green structures. Taking this challenge and attempting to proceed with urban redevelopment, this dissertation explores the sustainable targets and solutions for redeveloping slums in Kenya. Most Kenyans live in informal settlements, such as Kibera, which produce substantial amounts of environmental harm, therefore, more eco-friendly designs are required.

 

I will explore the architectural sustainable targets, specifically by analysing the Green Pyramid.

Rating System (GPRS) and sustainable passive and active techniques. Following this, I will analyse several modern technologies and methods that focus on sustainable development within architecture. Technologies include; the development of collapsible structures, Mascon Construction System and push-fit system, which uses eco-friendly materials and processes for construction. Methods of sustainability in slums include; solving amenity problems through green solutions, the introduction of Liquified Petroleum Gas to replace electricity, and optimising waste management through the safe disposal of the rubbish.

 

The goal of this dissertation is to understand the effectiveness of sustainable architectural practice in solving the urban redevelopment issues in slums. It is difficult for the government alone to attempt to eradicate the issues, as Kenya is an economically underdeveloped country, therefore, aid from third-party organisations such as NGOs (Non-Profit Organisation), for example, The United Nations, is essential.