Episode I: Use of nature-based building materials for sustainable and resilient human settlements

Programmes

Strategic Group: Resilient Economies and Landscapes , Action Area: Economies & Sustainable Mountain Settlements

Venue

Virtual (Zoom)

Date & Time

28 July 2025

Contact

Swornima Pandey & Erica Udas

Organizers: ICIMOD, HUC

About the webinar

The first webinar of this series focuses on the use of nature-based materials such as bamboo, stone, timber, and compressed earth blocks in building sustainable and resilient settlements, particularly in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region. Speakers will share insights on integrating locally sourced, nature-based materials with modern design to address risks such as flooding and other natural hazards. The session will highlight the environmental and social benefits of using these materials, including reduced carbon emissions, support for local economies, strengthened community resilience, and the preservation of traditional knowledge and techniques.

Agenda

28 July 2025, 15:00–16:00 (NPT, UTC+05:45)

Time (NPT)	Programme	Speakers
15:00-15:05	Welcome remarks	Barsha Rani Gurung, Communications Officer, ICIMOD
15:05-15:10	Session Introduction	Prof. Zain ul Abedin, Vice President, Museums Association of Pakistan
15:10-15:30	Key presentation 1	Dr. Yasmeen Lari, Co-Founder and CEO, Heritage Foundation of Pakistan
15:30-15:50	Key presentation 2	Narayan Acharya, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Rammed Earth Solutions
15:50-16:00	Q&A and Closing Remarks	Prof. Zain ul Abedin, Vice President, Museums Association of Pakistan

Speakers

Dr Yasmeen Lari is the Co-Founder of the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan and a pioneering architect known for her work in sustainable, community-led architecture. Since retiring from commercial practice in 2000, she has led Pakistan’s largest zero-carbon shelter programme, constructing over 40,000 climate-resilient homes using local, nature-based materials. Her work centres on disaster resilience, women’s empowerment, and participatory design.

Narayan Acharya is a sustainable builder specializing in rammed earth construction since 2013. He has led nearly 90 projects across Nepal, blending traditional techniques with modern design to create climate-resilient, community-driven spaces. His projects have been both nationally and internationally recognized for their impact. His approach combines locally available materials with sustainable design to benefit both the environment and local communities.