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Abstract

The University of British Columbia (UBC) Farm is planning on building a new Farm Centre to welcome guests and educate visitors. As part of this objective, the UBC Farm wishes to investigate straw-bale and cob as potential construction materials. With a major focus on the economic and regulatory impacts, this paper examines the effects of these nontraditional materials. This analysis take the form of a triple-bottom line assessment; linking the economic, social and environmental impacts of the proposed materials. Two case studies were used to provide a basis for the analysis; both non-residential buildings of a similar size to the proposed UBC Farm Centre. Additionally, primary and secondary research was conducted to quantify the findings. Interviews with industry experts were used, as well as a thorough examination of academic research. This analysis shows that while straw-bale and cob offer significant economic, social and environmental advantages, these are conditional on specific criteria. Regulatory and economic concerns suggest that neither straw-bale nor cob should be used as a load-bearing component. A timber-frame structure with traditional protective wall-siding is recommended (certain plasters could be used); using the straw-bale as the main wall material and cob as a coating on either side. This will allow the UBC Farm to take advantage of the benefits of these proposed materials while minimizing any potential for regulatory issues. Disclaimer: “UBC SEEDS provides students with the opportunity to share the findings of their studies, as well as their opinions, conclusions and recommendations with the UBC community. The reader should bear in mind that this is a student project/report and is not an official document of UBC. Furthermore readers should bear in mind that these reports may not reflect the current status of activities at UBC. We urge you to contact the research persons mentioned in a report or the SEEDS Coordinator about the current status of the subject matter of a project/report.”