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Yatin Pandya: An Architect Innovating for Inclusion and Sustainability

By Lenora Suki on November 19, 2009 / Ahmedabad, India


We went to visit Yatin Pandya of Footprints E.A.R.T.H, an architect noted for hi
s career-long commitment to sustainability in cities as the head of research at
the Vastu Shilpa Foundation for 20 years. His projects feature extensive use of
recycled materials, participatory development and emphasis on low income and soc
ial infrastructure. His work is currently engaged in three directions: academic
research, demonstration projects as applied research and dissemination.
Innovative projects. His projects illustrate many of the features that interest
us most. As examples, the Environmental Sanitation Institute and the Manav Sadhn
a Activity Center illustrate the junction between design and the need for more s
ustainable building practices. In the second case, the building exemplifies the
importance of social infrastructure in cities as one crucial part of making citi
es livable, even in informal settlements and slum areas. Not to mention that the
use of recycled materials in community centers can also be used as a vehicle fo
r youth environmental education.
Another interesting project in the works but not yet executed is a low cost hous
ing project in Beawar, Rajasthan for SEWA, which would produce 700 units priced
at Rs. 80,000/apt (USD 2,000 at Rs. 40/USD) so that the monthly payment would ma
tch most slum dwellers rent. Mr. Pandya emphasized the importance of site planni
ng, interactivity of process and social open space.
Recycled building materials. One of Mr. Pandyas astonishing achievements is havin
g identified, produced, tested and catalogued a whole range of recycled building
materials, many of which on display in his projects. The argument is compelling
: India produces 24.7 mn tons of urban/solid waste per day. Building products ca
n be made from a whole range of products, many of which would be appropriate for
affordable building materials. Not only do these materials result in lower poll
ution but they also increase employment. Many of the materials result in better
building materials performance, like reflective roof tiles for cool roofs.
We were delighted to meet another great Indian innovator and again encouraged by
the prospect of partnering with people like Mr. Pandya who have already tested
and implemented these innovations but require some business acumen to take an id
ea from design to development.

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