Development of Sustainable Low-Cost Building Materials Using Locally Available Resources

Abstract

Nigeria faces a severe housing deficit of over 25–28 million units, driven by high construction costs and reliance on imported materials. This study explores sustainable, low-cost building materials sourced locally including laterite, bamboo, rice husk ash (RHA), palm kernel shells (PKS), and recycled plastics as alternatives for affordable housing. A multidisciplinary literature-based approach was adopted, integrating civil engineering, environmental science, and architectural perspectives. Results indicate that these indigenous materials can achieve acceptable structural performance (e.g., laterite blocks and RHA-blended concrete reached strengths comparable to conventional materials, and bamboo’s tensile capacity rivals steel). Significant cost savings were identified, with some alternatives up to 30–50% cheaper than traditional materials. Environmentally, these options greatly reduce construction’s carbon footprint by cutting energy use (laterite), sequestering carbon (bamboo), repurposing waste (RHA, PKS), and diverting plastic from pollution. The discussion addresses policy implications, recommending measures like updated building codes, local material incentives, pilot projects (e.g., bamboo housing), and public awareness to overcome adoption barriers. In conclusion, leveraging Nigeria’s abundant local resources for construction is a viable pathway toward more affordable, climate-resilient housing development reducing dependence on costly imports provided that supportive policies, standards, and further research are implemented.