SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH THE USE OF QUALITY AND GREEN MATERIALS

This paper attempts to present a walkthrough of the development of public housing blocks in Hong Kong in respect of the drive toward sustainability through the use of quality and green materials. Firstly, it will discuss the recent initiative of establishment of standardized modular flats across different site specific designs. The merits are to facilitate the repetitive use of prefabricated building components, in conjunction with mechanized construction. Where appropriate, volumetric precast construction is adopted all to enhance quality workmanship and long term durability. Next is to give an overview on how quality is assured by direct testing laboratories, by parallel testing in our Housing Laboratory, and by quarantine testing on each batch of material delivery. Traceability of materials could also be controlled by way of RFID technology. Thirdly, the paper will present some of the green materials in pilot trials, including GGBS and PFA concrete in precast facades as well as the full implementation of epoxy coated bars in roof water tanks. Through these initiatives, we do wish that the seeds for quality and sustainable living could be sowed for the occupants of public housing in the years to come.