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Sustainable Social Housing Points to a Promising Future in Biobío

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• An innovative property prototype that promises to revolutionize construction in the region, with economic and environmental benefits, was presented at the University of Concepción.

With the presentation of a sustainable social housing prototype, the Biobío region positions itself at the forefront of the search for housing solutions that are both affordable and environmentally friendly.

This project not only offers an alternative for those affected by wildfires but also addresses the region's housing deficit, aligning with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

The prototype, installed on the Concepción campus of the University of Concepción, has been specifically designed to adapt to the climate of the Biobío Region, with preventive measures against fungi, termites, and fire.

With a surface area of 73 square meters and the possibility of expanding by an additional 9 square meters, the housing unit is demountable and panelized, allowing for quick and efficient construction, ideal for remote or hard-to-access areas.

The executive vice president of Corfo, José Miguel Benavente, highlighted the importance of a design that considers the unique characteristics of the territory and the needs of future inhabitants. Meanwhile, the manager of Corfo's Strategic Program for Sustainable Modern Wood Construction Methods, Frane Zilic, stated that the additional costs of this type of housing are minimal compared to the long-term benefits.

The regional housing minister (seremi), Claudia Toledo, emphasized the collaboration between academia, the community, and the public and private sectors, as well as the need to consider local and cultural factors for housing solutions to be effective and sustainable. The Vice-Rector Dr. Andrea Rodríguez and the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, Urbanism, and Geography, Dr. Leonel Pérez Bustamante, underscored UdeC's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and solving social problems.

The inauguration of this prototype marks the beginning of a second six-month phase to finalize the first social housing designed for Biobío. This project not only represents progress in sustainable construction but also generates employment and development opportunities, contributing to community well-being and planetary care.

Photo: UdeC News