For decades, the world has grappled with the environmental impact of plastic waste, with over 9 billion tons produced since the 1950s, most of which ends up in landfills or oceans. Concurrently, homelessness remains a pressing issue globally, affecting over 1.6 billion people. The urgent need for affordable housing, especially in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, is exacerbated by factors like population growth and the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Novel Solution: Othalo’s Plastic Housing
To address both the plastic pollution crisis and the housing shortage, the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) recently partnered with Othalo, a Norwegian startup renowned for its innovative approach to recycling plastic waste. Othalo’s patented technology allows for the mass production of building systems made entirely from recycled plastic. These building systems, including homes, shelters, and infrastructure, are not only affordable but also eco-friendly and sustainable.
The Impact of Othalo’s Technology
A single Othalo home, spanning 60 square meters, upcycles eight tons of plastic waste. With the abundance of plastic pollution plaguing the planet, Othalo has the potential to manufacture one billion homes, significantly mitigating both the housing crisis and plastic pollution. Moreover, Othalo’s modular design allows for flexibility in construction, enabling the creation of various structures to meet the diverse needs of communities.
Collaboration and Innovation
Othalo’s founder, Frank Cato Lahti, has spearheaded the development of this technology since 2016, collaborating with partners like SINTEF and the University in Tromsø. Now, with support from architect Julien De Smedt and Young Global Leader Silje Vallestad, Othalo aims to co-create living conditions in partnership with local communities. By bridging manufacturing with local craftsmanship and culture, Othalo strives to make a meaningful impact on both environmental sustainability and social welfare.
As Othalo’s partnership with UN-Habitat unfolds, it underscores the urgency of addressing plastic pollution and homelessness through innovative solutions. Through continued dedication to its mission, Othalo has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach affordable housing and environmental stewardship on a global scale.
