As crisis continues to rock the real estate sector in Nigeria, the need for a lasting solutions cannot be overemphasized.
In view of that, real estate expert Femi Oladipo highlights the combination of modular construction techniques with 3D printing technology as a means to address the global housing crisis.
According to him, “As a real estate entrepreneur focused on addressing the global housing shortage crisis, it is my aim to consider innovative approaches to resolving this major problem.
“Shortage of adequate housing plagues over million people forcing us to seek advanced strategies of environmentally friendly, readily available and economic housing. These are three measures that can be taken to solve this crisis.
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“The first measure is using a radical approach of combining modular construction techniques as well as 3D printing technology for affordable rapid house building. These are efficient ways of building that allow for completion with speed, low cost, and customizing the building to one’s preferences.
“To that end, modular buildings are made off-site and come pre-assembled on location in order to speed up construction efforts by making a mass production without compromising quality.
“Thirdly, 3D printing enables the fabrication of house units one after another reducing construction hours and materials excess. Hence, using these innovative technologies would enable the quick development of dwellings that are affordable, ecological and economical.
In addition, he noted that promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly construction vital to addressing the housing crisis and minimizing ecological harm. The use of recycled material, renewable energy sources, and green building design principles are essential for more sustainable housing.
“The shortage can also be solved using renewable materials such as bamboo, recycled plastics, and even repurposed shipping containers which help reduce the environmental impact.
“Introduction of renewable energies like solar panels and wind turbines in housing projects can lead to a substantial reduction in long-term energy costs since it provides alternative power source. The use of green building practices addresses the housing shortage and paves the way to sustainable housing for generations to come.
He went further to note that, a holistic approach involving collaborative urban planning and policy reforms essential to housing shortages. Governments, urban planners, and communities need to work hand-in-hand to implement zoning regulations that allow for denser and mixed-use development, promoting affordable housing initiatives.
“Reforms in land use policies can unlock opportunities for diverse housing options and mixed-income neighborhoods. Additionally, fostering public-private partnerships could encourage investments in affordable housing projects. By prioritizing policies that incentivize affordable housing development, we can create more inclusive, diverse, and accessible living spaces for all.”
Oladipo concluded that the global housing shortage demands multifaceted solutions that embrace technological innovation, sustainable practices, and policy reforms.
“These proposed solutions align with the national interest by addressing a critical global issue, fostering economic growth, and promoting sustainable development.
“Implementing these strategies not only addresses the immediate housing crisis but also lays the foundation for a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for communities worldwide,” he added.