As Bhutan stands on the verge of transitioning from ‘least developed’ to ‘developed’ status, our choices today will profoundly influence how we are perceived globally. One of the most significant decisions we face is whether to prioritize mud or cement as our primary building material. This choice transcends practicality; it is a declaration of our values and vision for the future, shaping our national identity and presenting our ethos to the world.
Our historic dzongs, with their unique architectural splendor, have long been a testament to our cultural and aesthetic heritage. As we move forward, we must decide whether to continue this legacy or embrace cement—a symbol of modernity but fraught with ecological and health concerns.
The significance of building materials extends beyond their physical properties; they embody the essence of a nation, reflecting its past choices and future aspirations. In this pivotal moment, our traditional use of mud in construction is not just a preference but an imperative for sustainable development.
Mud is inherently compatible with Bhutan’s bioregional context. Locally sourced, it reduces environmental impact and complements our natural climatic conditions, providing excellent thermal insulation. In stark contrast, cement is responsible for approximately 8% of global CO2 emissions, as reported by the Chatham House. Mud offers an environmentally benign alternative, critical for sustainable development amid the escalating global warming crisis.
Moreover, the health risks associated with cement are alarming. Buildings constructed with cement often have increased levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), linked to respiratory problems and cancer. Our buildings shape our health as much as our landscapes, making the choice of building materials a matter of public health.
Mud’s vibrational qualities—its ability to harmonize with the natural energies of the earth—offer profound spiritual and emotional benefits. Ancient philosophies suggest that the materials we use influence not only our physical health but our spiritual well-being. Carl Jung noted, “The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct acting from inner necessity.” Mud invites us to create spaces that are both physically and spiritually nourishing. Its low vibrational disturbance creates environments that breathe and speak to our souls, as Thich Nhat Hanh describes.
Well-designed environments do more than fulfill basic needs; they enhance well-being, inspire tranquility, and foster community. Mud, with its natural properties and aesthetic flexibility, allows for the creation of spaces that are functional and spiritually and culturally resonant. This design approach, prioritizing human and environmental health, is essential as Bhutan charts its developmental path.
To maximize the benefits of mud as a primary building material, we must revise our current building codes to support its unique properties, ensuring structures built with mud meet modern safety and durability standards while retaining their environmental and health benefits. Incorporating traditional knowledge and modern engineering practices into our building codes can bridge the gap between the old and the new, fostering sustainable development that respects our heritage.
Economically, mud is both practical and strategic. It nurtures local economies, reduces dependency on volatile imports, and sustains traditional construction techniques vital for cultural preservation and local employment. Investing in indigenous materials is more than construction; it is a commitment to a self-reliant economy and safeguarding our cultural legacy.
Most importantly, using mud aligns with Bhutan’s pioneering concept of Gross National Happiness. The rich countries of the world, with their skyscrapers and expressways, often suffer from poor environmental design, leading to mental, physical, social, and emotional health issues. Bhutan, as it steps into the developed world, should not be marred by standard concrete jungles. By choosing mud, we can reduce our ecological footprint, promote cultural heritage, enhance health and well-being, and align construction practices with our national values of sustainability and holistic development.
Transitioning from cement to mud does present challenges. Durability and modernization needs mean that mud construction techniques must evolve. Innovative approaches, such as stabilized mud bricks and plasters, provide enhanced durability without sacrificing environmental and health benefits.
Our progress should align with the earth’s rhythm, not the clock’s ticking. The choice of building materials is about the kind of world we want to live in. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized sustainable building practices in combating climate change. This pivotal moment’s material choices will define our tomorrow. As Bhutan rises, let it be known not for fleeting concrete embraces but for steadfast commitments to sustainability and holistic prosperity.
This period should be marked by a thoughtful return to materials that embody sustainability and respect for heritage. Let us champion a development model that the world admires and seeks to emulate, one that proudly declares that in Bhutan, progress is measured by the happiness and health of its people as much as by economic metrics.
Choosing mud over cement is not just practical; it is a moral imperative. It is a bold statement that Bhutan will lead with wisdom, vision, and unwavering commitment to Gross National Happiness principles. This choice is an opportunity to redefine modernization, prioritizing ecological integrity, cultural continuity, and holistic well-being.
