Here’s a novel idea that might help put a dent in the massive backlog of new homes our government has promised to the millions without adequate shelter, plus it’s great for the environment!

If there’s one house in the small village of Yelwa in Nigeria that draws a lot of attention, it’s this one:

It’s a real winner! It’s cosy, circular, has great ventilation, one bedroom, bathroom, living area and kitchen, and it’s made from about 7800 discarded plastic bottles filled with sand.

The idea is not new – the same method has been employed in India and South America to great success, and in terms of cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability, is a real winner, not to mention the job creation aspect. The houses cost a third of the price of normal construction methods, and are more durable.

Not a bad idea for our own housing crisis, no?

[Source: BBC News]