SPARC

Hands in the Mud

2011-12-14T08:47:00.000+05:00

Experimental Construction in Lahore

2011-12-02T09:59:00.000+05:00

The opening ceremony of Institute for Experimental Construction (IEC) was held in the Beaconhouse National University, Raiwind Road, Lahore on April 29, 2011.

The theme of the event was Mud Housing and Appropriate Technology. Other related topics like Natural Disasters and Slums and Upgrading of Housing Experiments also came under lime light. The demonstration and discussion also included not only the construction but also the technical infra-structure (electricity supply, toilets, water filtration) and more.

The small mud house stands rather intelligently and provocatively against the monumental brick construction at BNU Tarogil Campus of Beacon House National University and points to a new problem area: How are the students supposed to gather their experiences, because the next catastrophes will surely come. Are we in Pakistan supposed to always wait for foreign help. Students of architecture must gather practical experience. Knowledge is Power, but knowledge comes out of practical experiences! This was amply recognized by the audience, mostly students of BNU and the Punjab University in addition to faculty members and others interested in Appropriate Technology.

Exhibition served to point out the problems very loudly. Discussion partners were available for some possible solutions. They included people like the construction contractor Iqbal from Harappa to Omar Hassan, Professor at the Beaconhouse National University.

The German architect Arne Tönissen who is currently involved in the construction of a traditional building in Sheikhupura using mud as construction material was also present. Shakeel Amir arrived with Farooq Ahmad from district Okara in order to demonstrate his Kite project, which revolves around using wind energy for charging a battery for operating a desert cooler in the health station of the village Thatta Ghulamka Dhiroka.

After a visit and discussion at site, a workshop was conducted in the seminar hall of the BNU, in which the architect Arne Tönissen presented an introduction of his work and another presentation by the young researcher Shakeel Amir where he explained start of work by the Institute of Experimental Construction (IEC). Both the presentations were followed by question answers session.

Taking advantage of the occasion, Environment Protection Award by Foundation for Promotion of Academic Collaboration was presented to Architect Ghayyoor Obaid to acknowledge his work. The president and secretary general as well as some founding members of the foundation were also present on the occasion.

The event was made possible through the cooperation and permission of the BNU for the experimental construction, which hopefully will allow the students of the PU, COMSAT, NCA, UET to carry out experiments not only for fun but also to gather valuable necessary experiences.

The network of organizers and support organizations (German Embassy Islamabad, Senior Expert Service Bonn, Society for the Promotion of Art and Culture, Lahore) for the event was woven by a wanderer between the worlds, who was nominated as Senior Research Fellow by the FPAC in recognition of his services. He is so to say the founding director of the Institute, which will be meaningfully active only after involvement of the local colleagues. Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch is also president of the Royal University Centre, Cameroon. He reported and discussed with students his experiences at MIT in Boston and at the University of Stuttgart, suggesting for example a transport of cartons and foils from the Tetrapak-Company, located nearby, providing interesting working material to the students for using in experimental construction.

Housing

2011-11-30T22:46:00.000+05:00

Download Housing by Prof. Dr. Norbert Pintsch here

Link Love

2011-11-30T22:18:00.002+05:00

Social media for business at Logic is Variable

Bridges at Doodh Patti

Pottry at Dolls Village

Artisans at Thatta Kedona

I ask the Impossible at Light Within
Housing at SPARC

You are Invited at Fine art of Blogging

Socities at Lahore School

Rugby at World Cup Log

How you display?

2011-11-10T12:21:00.000+05:00

Setting up a retails store, warehouse, offices, hospitals, libraries, museums or anything else is a fine art and a part of good marketing practices. How you display the products in a store or in museums effect the way customers or viewers react. Nicely laid out places help users to find what they are looking for and improves the sale in any outlet. Badly laid out, clustered and untidy display does not inspire customers to buy. Savvy businesses go a long way to get appropriate fixtures and arrange them methodically and esthetically.

While looking for something that is light and takes lesser space, I came upon shelving by Dexion Limited – leading providers of complete range of adjustable shelving and lockers anywhere. Best thing is that the flexibility of Dexion systems ensures they are able to give a boost to your display. Most of our shelving systems can be mounted on mobile bases and runners for a high density storage solution.

I can say by experience that the retail stores that are laid out aesthetically and neatly will have better customers service and other business practices. Which is why I suggest that owners must pay close attention to what type of fixture they use in the retail stores, how they set them up. See Dexion systems to change the look of your retail stores or other places where you display.

Insect control

2011-11-06T15:10:00.002+05:00

Insects (pests) of all kinds can attack living spaces at almost any time of the year. Generally, when temperatures rise, most of the pests perk up. As the weather changes and it becomes warmer, pests’ metabolism increases and they are more active.

Pests that are found in and around houses can be divided in different categories: wood destroying pests (like termites), food, fabric, and nuisance pests (ants, flies), food storage pests (fungus), pests that sting, bite, or injure (bees, mosquitoes), vertebrate pests (house mouse, lizards) and many more. All of them create problems.

Worst of all house pests, termites are temperature dependent. Termites initially are just a mild nuisance, but if they are not controlled at early stage they can be destructive. Of about 2000 known species of termite, most commonly found in this part of the world are known as white ants that damage wooden items such as furniture or house structures.

In summers, termites can wreak havoc in homes. Termite can start their damaging activities in warmer parts of the houses even in winters as well. And here is the rub: They are hard to find even when they are digesting sub flooring or tunneling through walls of any home. And when the columns of tiny ants are seen marching across walls, the damage might have already been done.

How to find these home wreckers? Walk your home's perimeter regularly, and look for hanging zigzag mud tunnels on the walls. Termites build these for covert, humid access to wood. Also look for broken off wings and sandy, wood colored termite droppings.

Once termite colony (yes they live in their own colonies) is suspected, it is better to get help for professional termite extermination. But there are so many simple things that can be done by owners to prevent termites or at least lessen the possibility of getting termites. Preventative measures include making sure the wooden parts of houses have no direct contact with the ground. This means keeping walls free of dirt piles, not letting trellises or plants grow from the ground to the siding, and not stacking wood against the house. Even thick wood mulch can provide cover for termites. Also keeping moisture away from the foundation and immediately repairing all types of leaks around structural wood is useful. Paying particular attention to wooden decks and stairs, and areas where the structure rests on the foundation walls, and especially in crawl spaces or any area with an earthen floor also helps detect the attack.

Earlier, building owners and construction people concerned about termite control should start at the planning stage. The first thing to consider is the type of foundation a building is going to stand on or will be resting on - some of the foundation types have more potential for termite problems than others. Other factors to consider are timing of treatment (pre-construction or post-construction), type of treatment (liquid or feeding stations) and good building management practices.

Beside termites, cockroaches are the hardiest (and for some the scariest) of all the house summer pests. Cockroaches are active in the night mostly. If one spots any in the daytime in kitchen or bathrooms, it means the house is infested with cockroaches.

Cockroaches damage the health of the family member by spreading microorganisms. Cleanliness and good sanitation in homes can reduce their menace. To prevent cockroaches from entering the house, seal all the gaps that can allow them access to your home from outside. Do not leave anything that it can feed on in the open. This is a difficult task as they eat almost anything and everything.

Black ants that commonly infest the houses are the smaller variety often called sugar ants. These ants eat sweets and oil and normally infest the kitchen. To prevent them from attacking your kitchen keep all the food in containers, clean the counter tops at regular intervals and empty the garbage cans frequently. The best way to eliminate these ants is to eliminate any source of their food.

Bees (yellow or black locally called demoon) are also common in summers. These flying insects have a nasty sting that causes swelling and pain and even can land anyone in hospital if attacked by more bees.

House flies and mosquitoes are also damaging and swarm more in summers. House flies not only rate high as a nuisance, but are a constant threat to health by carrying disease organisms from filthy habitats to contaminate food. Flies may carry bacteria on their bodies which can then be transferred to food. They breed in garbage, grass clippings and in other decomposing plant and animal matter. Maintain trash containers with tight-fitting lids and regularly clean up dog feces in the yard. Keep doors and windows closed unless equipped with tight-fitting screens. Different repellent and electric mosquito and housefly terminators are also available in market.

All season pests like rats and cecak (wall lizards) scuttle about in dirty places and can track filth in if you do not block their access into your living environment. Rats not only spread disease, but are also a nuisance as they like to chew through doors, window screens, cables on appliances and computers, electric cables in your attic and even cars where the seats become their nest. Cecak are actually quite helpful creatures as they consume mosquitoes, house flies and some other pests that live in homes but most people do not like them scurrying about the walls and ceilings of their home.

People use different types of chemical substances or mixture of substances to destroy, repel and mitigate the house pests. Indiscriminate use of chemical substances can also be an environmental problem or out rightly dangerous for children (remember incidents when kids have been reported to eat up poisonous pills kept for killing house rates. Therefore, utmost care has to be exercised while using any chemical substance at home.

All the home pest insects cause damage in one form or the other in every season. There presence is a nuisance at best and destructive for material and unhealthy for human at worst. They look ugly and make the environment is homes unhygienic and unaesthetic. Inspecting house carefully and looking for telltale signs of infestation at all times and terminating them before any damage is the best strategy. Precautionary measures should be taken anyway. If there is an infestation that can not be dealt with personally, one should never take it lightly and professional pest controller help should be sought immediately.

And there are other type of ‘insects’ that can not be controlled what to talk of termination. Unwelcome guests can come in home anytime with full clams. What to do when these pests invade your home? Over to you. Tell me?

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Muzaffar Muhammad Ali - memorial seminar-cum-book launching ceremony

2011-10-20T19:16:00.000+05:00

Muzaffar Muhammad Ali, a renowned writer, columnist and Ex-Editor Jang Publishers Lahore had passed away in March, 2010 atthe age of 58 years. His contributions to the society were countless interms of fair critique (Columnist in prominent dailies), knowledge sharing(managed various books publishing on miscellaneous issues), social development(NGOs - SPARC - and active charities member) and responsible journalism (Editedvarious Dailies/Digests).

During his last 7 years of life, he managed to interview prominent journalists who had played pivotal roles in steering Pakistan’sdemocratic development and witnessed the thick and thin of its 60 years history. This book [compilation of interviews] is acclaimed as a treasurechest for truth-seekers. He himself named this book “Pakistani Sahafat Kay Raazdaan Sahafi – Safdar Mir Say Hamid Mir Tak” priorto his sad demise; summing up the crux of this book’s contents. Weat Right Vision Communications Pvt. Ltd. are arranging a memorial seminar-cum-book launching ceremony of his last compilation ofinterviews.

Prominent Speakers include Mr. Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami,Mr. Atta-ul-Haq Qasmi, Mr. Rehmat Ali Razi, Mr. Hamid Mir, Mr. Hassan Nisar,Mr. Irshad Arif, Mr. Amir Hashim Khakwani, Mr. Saeed Aasi, Mr. Sohail Warriach,Mr. Salim Bokhari, Mr. Mustansar Hussain Tarrar, Mr. Rauf Tahir, Mr. SajjadMir, Mr. Muhammad Saleem Baig, Mr. Abid Tahami, Dr. M. Owais Farooqui,Mr. Saeed Azhar and Provincial Minister Rana Sana Ullah.

Venue: Al-HamraHall Number # 3

Date: Saturday,22nd October, 2011

We hereby request and extend our cordial invitation toyou for attending this event at specified time & date. Your participationwill not only bring honor to the departed soul, but will also complimenthis lasting contributions.

Environment workshop at Peerzada Complex

2011-10-18T08:55:00.002+05:00

Foundation for Promotion of Acedemic Collaboration

2011-10-13T20:32:00.000+05:00

Introducing FPAC - Foundation for Promotion of Acedemic Collaboration

Mud Housing Experiments

2011-10-13T09:55:00.002+05:00

Mud Housing and Appropriate Technology Expo at BNU

2011-09-30T11:20:00.000+05:00

Why Mud as a Building Material?

2011-09-27T11:12:00.000+05:00

Mud Architecture is basically studying mud as a building material which has already being tested and tried for thousands of years. The property of this material is very different from the ones which are in used in modern day construction hence the method of using it is very different.

Like all materials this is also has its own limitations which can be overcome but the main advantage is we do not need lot of energy to manufacture it unlike brick, cement, steel, concrete, etc. Hence today when construction is consuming such a large amount of energy, which needs to be conserved it has become a necessity than a demand to sensibly explore into this alternative material for construction which I have discussed further in my article.

Why Mud as a Building Material?

Energy Consumption

In mud construction, minimum fossil fuel energy is consumed and is naturally abundant throughout the world. Where as in brick construction fossil energy is consumed for manufacturing process and transportation.

Recycling

Recycling of modern materials for building construction results in high cost. Recycling of soil does not need fossil fuel, labour require is also less. The characteristic of recycled soil for construction remains the same whereas in modern building material situ acquires inferior character after recycling.

Abundance

The abundance availability of soil in large areas help the economically weaker section of the society to afford the mud construction. It is easily adaptable and the technology can be transferred easily.

Housing Demand

A huge deficit of housing demand in urban and rural areas linked with limited resources on all fronts make it absolutely essential that the housing solution have to be best effective, through optimal and efficient use of all resources of land, finance and building material.

Different Techniques used in Mud Architecture

Different materials are employed for different construction techniques.

Here is a list of materials that are employed for different types of construction:

Cob

Adobe

Wattle and Daub

Pressed Earth Blocks

Rammed Earth Blocks [Via]

Conventional Architectures

2011-09-23T12:52:00.000+05:00

Pervaiz Munir Alvi

Muslims first arrived in areas now constituting southern half of Pakistan, mostly Sindh and Balochistan in Eighth century A.D. when ships of Arab general Mohammad bin Qasim landed somewhere near the mouth of the Indus river and then traveled upriver all the way to the important city of Multan in lower Punjab. Thus bringing most of the commerce routes from the Indus valley to Mesopotamia through Balochistan and Persia under their control. The areas now constituting northern half of Pakistan, Punjab, Kashmir and Frontier did not come under the Muslim control till the beginning of the eleventh century when the armies of Sultan Mahmood of Gazna, present day Afghanistan, came down through the mountain passes demolishing temples and the statuary within, unfortunate enough to be in their way. The newcomers, along with a new religion, also introduced new forms of visual arts and architecture to this land and its people. Mosques and madrassas were built, Forts and Palaces were erected, Mausoleums and Garden Cemeteries were created where no such structures existed before. The old Temples and Ashrams, Stupas and Monasteries ultimately became the relics of history. So significant was the introduction, and later on the proliferation, of this new art form that in historical terms the architecture of the areas now constituting Pakistan could be designated to two distinct periods— the earlier as pre-Islamic and the later as Islamic period.

By the middle of the eighteenth century Muslims lost control of the areas now constituting northern half of Pakistan to the Sikhs of Punjab. Even though they made architectural contributions of their own, the Sikh period also saw, not unlike their predecessors, destruction, stripping and neglect of the earlier buildings of the Islamic period. Particularly affected were the Muslim religious places such as the historical mosques and mausoleums. The areas now constituting southern half of Pakistan fortunately remained under Muslim control long after the fall of the Mughals and therefore did not experience the similar fate. However invaders from Persia and Afghanistan routinely damaged the historically significant structures and looted whatever they could on their return trip home.

The mid nineteen century saw the start of another short but architecturally significant period. By now the British had successfully taken over all the territories later to become Pakistan and set upon building new administrative institutions and infrastructures of their own. They were going to built collages, hospitals, post offices, museums, court houses, assembly halls, city halls, libraries, country clubs, parks, stadiums, cantonments and residential bungalows, railway stations and yes architecturally significant bridges and tunnels. In one century of British rule hundred and hundreds of new significant public structures were commissioned throughout the country. This was a period of not only European and English architecture but also of unique hybrids created by fusing the elements of English with the local Islamic architecture. Most of these colonial buildings are still standing and in use in Pakistan. British also help restore and some times deface some of the old historical buildings. In balance British period is the most significant period for Architecture in Pakistan.

The year 1947 is the beginning of the post colonial Pakistan period. British had left behind a running administration and infrastructure for the new rulers of the new country. In the first decade very few new architecturally significant buildings were added in any sphere of the society. The first major architectural surge took place when the national capital was moved from the commercial port city of Karachi at the Arabian Sea to the newly designed modern city of Islamabad located at the foothill of picturesque Margala ridge. Almost all major buildings in the city were designed by the foreign firms with some local input. These designers have often tried to create modern functional structures with infusion of their perceived local styles and traditions. The result is another hybrid architecture which over the time will be known as Pakistan period. Other than Islamabad every major city in Pakistan has also added few new structures in the mix. These are mostly educational and administrative buildings, hospitals, commercials centers, hotels, mosques and national monuments. Lately new airport terminals and sea ports are also added too.

Out side Islamabad no new major library is built. Other than those left behind by the British there has been no new world class museum or art gallery built in the last six decades. There are no opera houses, night clubs, significant theater halls or palaces to host performance events. None of the new bridges over major rivers or canals have any architectural values to them. The country has no internationally renowned architects or architectural firms of its own and thus heavily depends on foreign based designers. It is possible that with time a distinct Pakistani Architecture, like French or Italian Architecture may evolve. But it might be by default and not by conscientious design.

“Sit Rover” – Training your Dog The Right Way

2011-09-23T12:33:00.000+05:00

If you own a dog, you probably already realize exactly how pleasurable it can be. When a dog is incorporated into the family properly, they become much more than a simple pet and in many cases, they become a valued member of the family. Unfortunately, there are also problems that can occur from time to time when you own an animal and it can make it difficult for everyone that is involved. It is not only the family that suffers when a dog is lacking in training, it is also the dog which suffers as well. That is why it is so important for you to make sure that the dog is trained properly, and you are able to do that with the right dog training services. It does not matter if you live in Alaska or Nappa, dog training services can be found almost anywhere.

One of the things that you will quickly learn about most dog training services is the fact that they do not ascribe to a one-size-fits-all model. Your dog is going to have specific needs, just as you have specific needs and they usually acknowledge that from the start. Comprehensive, in-home training programs give you everything that is necessary to make sure that your dog is well-balanced and behaves properly. This typically results in a very positive experience for everyone that is involved, so there are usually several different choices of dog training which can work for anyone. This includes puppy training, training that is specific to any problems that you may be experiencing and occasional tune-ups, which will really help to keep you and your dog working together to your mutual benefit.

Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch back in Pakistan

2011-09-22T09:22:00.002+05:00

Dr. Norbert Pintsch is back in Pakistan and will be here till Oct 25, 2011

Make Your Dog a Baller with a New Collar

2011-09-22T09:00:00.001+05:00

There are quite a few different things that need to be considered when you own a dog. Their safety, however, should always be a priority so owning the right dog collar is certainly going to make a difference. Of course, just as humans have specific needs our animals are going to have specific needs as well. We can also consider, not just their safety but also our convenience when choosing one of these items. Here are some things that you may want to consider.

Do you have a large dog? There are some big dog collars that are available, such as Martingale dog collars. When you have a large dog, it’s often not enough for you to simply get a collar that is larger sized, it is best if you get one that is specifically designed for a larger breed. This can help to keep your dog safe and comfortable when they are wearing it. It also helps you to have control over your dog in a more gentle way than a standard choke collar while at the same time, providing safety because it is difficult for your dog to get out of this collar if they struggle against it.

You may also enjoy looking at the super collar and what it brings to the table. Out of all of the options you have available, this has got to be the most convenient. Not only does it replace the traditional collar, it replaces the leash as well while at the same time, giving you the convenience and your dog the security that it needs.

BUST awards Dr. Norbert Pintsch

2011-09-14T11:00:00.002+05:00

Your excellence, dear colleagues, dear parents and dear students!

I feel honored being invited here today. Some 20 years ago I came here as a tourist, and as BUST was opened in 1995 I had the opportunity to speak to you for the first time.

Since 2001 I am voluntarily working together with CAT (Centre for Appropriate Technology). So I may be familiar to some of you.

Today, you, the parents and the students are celebrating a quite remarkable occasion:

The parents are harvesting the fruits of their financial givings, and the students profit from a profound education.

A latin saying is: "We do not learn for our school, we learn for our life!" Non scholae sed vitae discimus.

Today we live in a world of "lifelong learning" - which some of our ancestors were familiar with decades ago.

All people should have the opportunity to cultivate their personal abilities.

All people are equal.

Men and women are equal,- means the western thinking.

Looking at our planet from a distance, this may be true today.

But looking at the way most of us design our lives today reveals some adverse aspects. It seems the demand for focusing on elementary ecological and sociological concerns still remains a challenge.

What exactly does that mean?

My dear students, you have worked hard, but life has not quite begun. You will have to face the fact that learning must continue. Your future calls for linking your earned skills with the demands of our modern society. You will have to take the challenge to survive in an environment focusing on industrial and monetary aspects, turning motivated individuals into exchangeable merchandise. Developing and preserving values based on theoretical knowledge with little practical experience will require strong personal ethics. Your initial effort will not pay well, nevertheless you should keep building practical experience in projects, even if that may mean working voluntarily.

I wish you all the best for your personal future.

Your excellence, dear colleagues, dear parents and dear students!

Many thanks.

More images from the event

Wrought iron

2011-09-14T11:00:00.001+05:00

Wrought iron is one of the best and most commonly used construction material. It is solid as well as esthetic. That is why you can see wrought iron doors, windows and decorative stuff everywhere. I was looking for wrought iron doors online when I came upon www.irondoors4u.com - the pioneer in online global shopping mall of ornamental wrought iron doors (iron doors).

I suggest all those looking for iron doors must start at Kohliron and see what they are offering and how. They display huge collection form the best manufacturers of wrought iron in the world, primarily from Asia and Mexico with various designs and selections. Kohliron guarantees the quality and the price. All the wrought iron doors ship directly from manufacturers to your doorstep or to your nearest distribution warehouse in your area. Best thing is that they have over 30-year experience in wrought iron business, and know how to deliver the best collections with lowest possible prices.

What is more, custom orders are also available, without additional charge. Have a look and see what is on display and how they can serve your needs. Also see the discount they are offering.

Concept - Mud Housing Project

2011-09-14T10:34:00.000+05:00

History

The MHP was initiated through SPARC (local NGO) in 2010, but it has a history, which began in 1990 in a village development project (Thatta Kedona) in the district of Okara (Gogera) in southern Punjab.

The mud construction has a long tradition (Harappa) in this region and it is still used extensively in the rural areas. However it has not developed further due to the influences of the city culture. Double storeyed mud constructions are however found very seldom. This although mud housing has many positive-construction biological properties and it is much more energy efficient than constructions of baked bricks and steel concrete.

Purpose of the Project

Purpose of the MHP is to emphasize the usefulness and importance of mud construction in city development.

Usefulness

An attempt is being made in cooperation with architecture students of PU, COMSATS, BNU, NCA and a constructor (Thekedar) from Harappa-Museum to develop solutions on the basis of a traditional mud hut, which would ultimately lead to a change in urban development strategies.

Implementation

As a start, construction was started at the premises of the Peersada Cultural Complex; the mud construction serves as accomodation for the handicraft workers.

In cooperation with SPARC and the DGFK (german NGO's), support through the SES (Senior Expert Service) in Bonn and the German embassy in Islamabad was obtained.

Current Importance

The MHP has gained additional importance due to the consequences of the recent floodings in Pakistan.

Short term aims

Help is necessary. Financial means are to be used effectively, local solutions are to be found, the daily requirements (e.g. hot water, cooking, etc.) are to be considered. Possibilities of using Appropriate Technology are to be explored.

Long term aims

The MHP should be understood as the initial flame and its aim to urgently establish a facility for experimental construction, which requires availability of suitable piece of land.

For various reasons, the implementation has to done in steps. The first steps have been taken.

Garage openers

2011-09-14T10:21:00.000+05:00

Garages are a special places used extensively in residential as well as commercial sectors. Every industry including agricultural sector needs garages. Given their utility, some great services have come up that help us maintain them.

Those who are having garages and need to maintain them must have a look at garage openers and see what The Philadelphia garage doors team (ready to take your call 24 hours a day) is offering and how best. Explore the neatly laid out and resourceful site and see what they do and how. Get acquainted with list of 24 hour emergency local area garage repair sites near your area where you can approach when you need them in an emergency. Their prices are also very affordable. Whenever you have a problem with your garage doors (opening, installation or replacement and repair), call garage openers or contact them online and leave the rest to them. They understand the emergency and will be at your garage door fast.

They offer their services for both commercial and residential properties. It shows their workmanship and expertise. Try garage door service by The Philadelphia garage doors team in Philadelphia when you need.

Thatta Kedona

2011-09-08T09:14:00.002+05:00

Thatta Kedona Dolls

Thatta Kedona Radio

In case of an accident

2011-08-31T10:12:00.002+05:00

In case of an accident you need a lawyer who canbest represent your interest. Have a look at Hawaii Auto Accident Lawyer and see what is on the offer and how can the experienced lawyer help you in case you need help.

Appropriate Technology

2011-08-25T08:43:00.000+05:00

How NGOs Work

2011-08-04T11:10:00.000+05:00

NGOs represent an alternative to the constructed organizational entities. They are flexible and can react faster to the changes. This is the theory as seen in anthropological and ethnological aspects. In our local context and in the face of rampant corruptions rooted deep in governmental organization, we hear so many debates about NGOs and their work. What is more, some segments in our society are totally against NGOs and their good work. Problem is that those who oppose the mere presence of NGOs might not even understand what are NGOs, how they work and fill the void left by the state or how much NGOs can influence for the collective good of the society.

It is in this milieu that Javed Sajjad Ahmad – a veteran social scholar – has brought How to Start and Manage Non-Governmental Organizations. The author has answered many thorny questions about NGOs that can help all stakeholders. “The book is a guide, a ready reference, or a step-by-step manual to launch and nurture an NGO. Existing NGOs, large or small, will find information in the book that they can use to raise funds, hone their organizational skills or learn how to manage growing pains. It is probably the first of its kind book being published in Pakistan, that meets a felt need of the voluntary sector, at a critical juncture, says Professor (Dr.) M. Nizamuddin, renowned antropologist and the Vice Chancellor University of Gujrat.

Working as consultatnt with Thatta Kedona - an international NGO engaged in poverty alleviation and preservation o f rural culture in rural Punjab - for last ten years, I have the understanding of problems being faced by NGOs and how some people view them. I can say with my personal experience that How to Start and Manage Non-Governmental Organizations can be a text book for anyone from donors to volunteers associated with social work at any level.

Publication of this book by University of Gujrat Press – publishing arm of University of Gujrat – at the time when major donors are taking policy decision to channel their development assistance to Pakistan via the voluntary sector will o a long way. Not only the book will open new opportunities for research and promote scholarly work on this subject but will also affect in a big way.

My recommendation: It is a must read for anyone who is alive to the collective good in the society.

Experimental Mud Construction

2011-08-04T09:32:00.002+05:00

Pakistan is increasingly suffering from an energy crisis. The electricity supply in most parts of the country remains disconnected daily for 8-12 hours; many rural areas have either no electricity at all as they they are too far away from the national grid to receive electricity. The situation points clearly towards the need to maintain and develop energy friendly construction forms and utilize alternative energy sources. Working in this direction, the German Development Agency (GTZ) has for example initiated a large electrification programme in Sind province with the help of solar elements.

The Mud Housing Project of SPARC also intends to make a contribution in the same direction by establishing a “model village”, samples for alternative construction and energy forms. The houses will be an example of traditional mud-construction techniques developed further through research. It will also show options for alternative energy, e.g. solar cooker, dry-WC, wind mill on the principle of Savonius-Rotor etc. - A sort of "Exhibition of Possibilities" never before seen in Pakistan.

The mud construction has unfortunately gained negative image due to influences of urbanization and urban life. Its positive value has been totally neglected. The project intends to bring about a positive consideration of traditional but energy-efficient construction methods. In order to evaluate the results in a scientific way, architecture students of the BNU Lahore, the COMSATS University Lahore, the Punjab University Lahore shall carry out physical tests, experiments and measurements on the mud houses constructed with different materials. Appropriate connections to these universities already exist through Prof. Dr. Norbert Pintsch (SES Expert and husband of Dr Senta Siller, holder of Federal Medal of Honour) due to his longstanding world-wide project work "Dolls of the World" / Village Project in Thatta Ghulamka Dhiroka and other small projects already completed with the assistance of the German Embassy. Letters of Intent from the universities have already been obtained.

The purpose of the exercise is to enable the future decision-makers to consider the traditional mud-construction in new light and to integrate it into future planning. The usage of environmentally friendly and construction biologically cheap materials and traditional construction forms combined with alternative technology, can also open doors for future solutions in urban areas.

The samples of model village will be integrated into an existing cultural entity as a holistic project concept - the cultural complex on the site of the Peerzaada Cultural Complex on the Raiwind Road in Lahore. As the place is already well-known, a regular and high number of visitors to the project as successful public relations work is already guaranteed. Moreover, these mud-houses shall be continuously in use as they will serve as lodging for the artisans working there.

The project appears to be closely related to cultural activity, in essence however, it is a construction concept with educational value as an alternative energy-efficient method of construction.

The project will also be promoted through the digital radio project initiated last year as a small project in the village of Thatta Ghulamka Dhiroka.

Top Five Myths Bankruptcy

2011-08-04T09:29:00.000+05:00

As consumer debt has skyrocketed to over $3 Trillion, many believe the only way out from under the mountain of bills is to declare bankruptcy. But is it right for you? Many myths persist to misinform the public. “Probably the worst myth about bankruptcy is that you need to be flat broke before you should file,” says Sacramento bankruptcy attorney Gerald B. Glazer. “It is not good to wait until creditors are knocking on your door,” according to Glazer. Fact is that planning can prepare you for a bankruptcy that causes the least amount of financial disruption.

Housing and Interiors

2011-07-28T09:53:00.000+05:00

Prof. Dr. Pintsch, Dr.tech.(h.c.), M.Arch., M.Civ.Eng., MBA

As long as the billions strong and naturally produced two-legged species exists,

it will require for the fulfillment of its basic functions necessary housing.

which is dependent upon climate and environment.

Since the human being in essence is the Subject as well as Object, the housing,

technical infra-structure, Ambience and Interiors are subject to continuous change.

The scope of change is indifferent and unclear.

Aaron Pinske

In the times of booming information technology and nano-technology, the bio-medical possibilities of cloning, the manipulation of genetic materials and the networking of neuronal networks with artificial intelligence, the knowledge appears to be the art of overcoming the present only. t the fact is that the distance between practice and theory is increasing and the (apparent) knowledge is actually a higher level of dis-knowledge!

Independent experiments on location in a distinct surrounding with their own micro-climate are helpful!

Experiments on a larger scale limit the diversity and are only justified with the involvement of the industry.

Of course one lives in houses.

It is only the wrongly understood architecture, designers unaware of reality and constructors from another world, because they belong to totally different economic spheres, which serves the destruction of the environment and resources.

Although we live gladly in the thrilling atmosphere of the urban world, we would like at the same time to enjoy the rural lifestyle.

If there were all the assumed benefits of urban life available in the village, one could save the migration from the rural areas to the urban areas.

Answers available instead of more difficult options are for example the ever increasing Disney-Worlds, which move into a phantasy world and lead to an increase in the gross domestic product through income generating measures: centre park, amusement park, life like aristocrats, luxury for all, 7-star luxury, etc. But there is always the connection between the building and the inner usage. Closet, Table, Bed, Chairs are fixed values. But this is valid for the classical way of living…

In another article, we have already referred to changes, which revolve around the growth of cities (High rise buildings, see TechnoBiz...).

Similarly in still another article, we have focused upon the constructions (polycristalline and biomolecular structures, see TechnoBiz...), without however referring to examples in the nature.

The usage of caves is of course not something new to the world.

Of course, newly developed structures offer “possibilities of accommodation“.

But how does a construction fully conform to the nature look like?

Must we think here about the romantic tree houses or is there not a more interesting combination of different organic and inorganic materials?

Construction biology and Bionics, the younger generation uses the term Construction Botanics, are the terms, which show us the way towards offering structures to the population, which are durable in certain climates and resistant to wind and water!

Knowledge of our fore-fathers is to be collected and experiments carried out in the current situation, because their type of housing is more susceptible to floods, insects, microbes etc.; Relationships between the humans and organic and inorganic materials is to be established and experimented upon.

Resistant plants in different climates are to be determined, their enemies and beneficiaries, as also the short and long-term variations in the temperatures.

On one side, the new possibilities appear to point to the heaven of opportunities, on the other hand it is important to undertake sufficient experimentation at most number of locations and -counter to the digital trend- if possible, independently and without the network of research institutes!

Courageous, small experiments are to be carried out, on location and with independent NGO's - water movement from Himalaya combined with floods towards the sea side, require examples like the mangroves in east and west Bengal.

Example could be steel pipe systems anchored into the ground and equipped with plants.

The plants provide for the walls and the roofs, the pipe structure gives hold in normal times and protection in case of catastrophe while allowing water to pass through in case of flood.

Those who know the situation in humid-hot climate, would gladly do without the solid walls.

The concrete platforms are a good basis for the survival of the residents.

The housing constructed on them may not be understood as Slums, as also the Bio-Architecture may not be seen as eccentric showpiece of some phantasy!

The question "Why“ should show us the path: The “Nature“ has developed itself over a long period and produced diversity; the Technology, as part of "culture" and in conjunction with the shortsighted economic concepts, is the main reason for problem deferment!

As a rule, construction is understood as a technical and controllable process. Bauen wird in der Regel als technischer Prozess und beherrschbarer Prozess verstanden. This is correct and false at the same time; correct from a short-term standpoint and wrong from a long-term standpoint.

Standardized materials and construction processes as carefully considered elements of the environmental wavelength are taken into account and can be measured in the meanwhile through instruments.

The measurements are helpful in the beginning but appear short-sighted in the long run,- new discoveries are disturbing, although there was a time, when they were one well recognized and well considered.

The minimal changes, the affects on humans and the environment remain ignored due to short-sighted economic reasons on one hand and the unintentional hard points of view on the other hand.

The changes and influences are neither recorded nor considered due to short-sighted approach (Example: Health risk in the use of asbestos cement, Example: long term technical and health damage in the use of certain insulation materials, to be seen in the context of energy conservation in air-conditioners).

We can develop wonderful models, which actually work in reality in the beginning.

We develop the opinion that the knowledge from these models can lead to security for the environment and the users.

This proves itself to be a mistake in a medium to long-term consideration, as we strive to prove in the following models.

Missing knowledge and the knowledge gained from this deficient knowledge are the sources of this erroneous development, so that we are not dealing with something statistical, rather with dynamic processes, in which the sub-systems have their own dynamics.

Summary

But the fact is that the distance between practice and theory is increasing and the (apparent) knowledge is actually a higher level of dis-knowledge!

Independent experiments on location in a distinct surrounding with their own micro-climate are helpful!

Experiments on a larger scale limit the diversity and are only justified with the involvement of the industry.

Salt Decore

2011-07-27T15:30:00.000+05:00

From Product Impex

Income protection insurance

2011-07-18T08:53:00.000+05:00

Income protection insurance is one of the best insurance policy that helps takes care of most essential things in life. In Australia, income protection insurance provides up to 75% of your income should you become ill or injured. Income protection can help pay your mortgage, rent, and living expenses. It also offers peace of mind knowing that if something tragic was to happen, you and any loved ones would be equipped with income to cope financially. xLife compares income protection insurance Australia wide and also offers up to 20% off. Have look and see what is on the offer and how.

iMeetzu

2011-07-16T10:52:00.001+05:00

This generation is seeing a cultural shift. There used to be different ways to meet and to know each other. Advent of the Internet and collaborative technologies has changed those ways we meet and know each other. What used to happen face to face can now be done online. The terms like friendship and being social are taking on a whole new meaning.

In this age of fast communication, most people in the world are looking for friends on the Internet. This surely is true for those who have integrated the Internet into their lives and are looking for suitable online hangouts or chat rooms. This has given birth to sites and Internet chat services. Now there are different Internet chat rooms, each with their own niche, style, features, costs and requirements.

iMeetzu.com is one of the best websites that allows you to meet and chat with strangers online, similar to Omegle and Chatroulette. However, iMeetzu.com also adds a social network so that users can save their favorite new friends. Like many others, I have been paying attention to chat sites. iMeetzu.com is a very vibrant community. Have a look who all are there. May be you find some likeminded people to hangout with. What else, look for me when you are there.

Azodin Blitz Paintball Marker

2011-07-12T09:35:00.000+05:00

We all have have had our time to shoot with paintball guns. This one of the most interesting outdoor that keeps young people engaged in healthy activities. Given my interest, I was looking for Paintball Guns when I came upon Zephyr Paintball Coupons and was pleasantly amazed to see the huge collection and wide range and the prices. I suggest those who are looking for paintball gear must start at Zephyr Paintball – leading name in extreme sports industry including paintball gear. Zephyr Paintball carries a complete line of the most sought after paintball gear and airsoft gear at the lowest prices anywhere on the web.

Azodin Blitz Paintball Marker is already on my wish list. A valve is the heart of every marker. The Board is the soul of every electronic marker. Azodin's second generation Blitz is designed with a new Heart and Soul! The new High Performance (HP) Valve design offers a new level of air efficiency, accuracy and overall performance. The "Zen II" Circuit Board has improved logistics and extends the life of most batteries you can find in the market today. Programmed with firing modes for the major circuits the "Zen II" Circuit Board can easily be modified with out AZ Editor to suit your likings. Innovative "Twist Lock II" has been added for increased convenience and locks you loader tighter than ever before.

Zephyr Sports is one of the leading sports items providers. Zephyr Sports has paintball and airsoft gear with low prices and free shipping on paintball guns, paintball goggles, airsoft equipment and gear. Explore neatly laid out, uncluttered and resource rich Zephyr Paintball site and see what all is on display and learn about zephyr paintball coupon codes. Products are listed methodically and it is easy to find what you may be looking for. Search function is also efficient. There are enough details with each item and imagery is good that helps you make informed online shopping experience. In case you have a question, call Zephyr Paintball and leave the rest to them. Hey are the best.

I suggest you them (at 877-814-4297) and become another satisfied Zephyr customer. Also visit their Forums and information rich Blog and you will find a whole lot of wonderful and likeminded community already there. You can interact with them and share your Zephyr Sports experiences and or talk about shooting experiences and other things of common interests.

Real estate and architecture website templates

2011-07-09T14:00:00.000+05:00

Selling properties estate is one of the most important decisions in life. It has long term implications for anyone involved. Selling residential or commercial properties requires a significant investment and a lot of legalities. This has accelerated the growth of real estate business. Many new fields have come up. In this age, when everyone turns to the World Wide Web to find anything, real estate businesses and services are successfully harnessing the power of the Internet through their presence online and functional websites. Neatly laid out, users’ friendly and easy to navigate sites with tailored real estate website templates cab make the difference for real estate businesses.

Which is why I always suggest real estate professional to create a website and have real estate web templates to attract and hold the attention of those who are looking for professional advice and consultation while dealing in real estate from selling and buying or fining rental properties or to looking for management assistance for their properties? Have focused real estate temlplet can enhance your real estate business in more than one ways.

I have personally learned that look of the site matters. Have a look at JAZZY and see real estate web templates and architecture web templates they are offering and choose on for your real estate business. Thy are very relevant.

Canopy in my garden

2011-07-06T09:12:00.000+05:00

Lately we had a course get together on a boat (huge raft) anchored in the middle of the Lake far below under a canopy. It was a canopy that made the venue beat taking. Readers of this blog had seen the images of get together under canopy.

Canopies are a best when I come to having a outdoor portable shelters to be used for any purpose from having a portable garages to portable sheds and or for putting up a trade show booth.

Those who are looking for best canopies must have a look at Canopy Hut and see what they are offering and how. They have a wide variety of the best outdoor portable shelters at great prices at display at users’ friendly website. Canopy Hut offers an amazing selection of high quality, rugged and dependable canopies, carports, storage sheds and party tents from some of the most trusted names in the industry.

Browsing the site, what struck my mind is that some of those colorful canopies can also be used as home extension. Having a pop up canopy in the back yard to use it as a winter sun room or in monsoon to to enjoy the rain my be a good idea. Having one of those canopies in the middle of my own garden is already on my wish list. Have a look and see what is on the offer.

Columbia Project

2011-07-05T11:33:00.000+05:00

Have a look at our new project blog titled Columbia Project.

Best auto purchase

2011-07-05T09:18:00.002+05:00

Everyone needs one if not more cars to move about in the fast lane of life we have these days. Given the growing human activities, more and more people are selling and buying used cars. But one still needs to do a lot of home work and personal research before buying and or selling a used vehicle. Which is why the industry has evolved into several distinct fields and you find experts to valuate used cars and facilitate selling and or buying?

Selling and buying used cars have become a major area of business all over the world. Thanks to Del Park Garage Ltd – a company that is selling and buying cars since 1978. They have experience in the field and show great professionalism. Efficiency, competence and thoroughness are some of their claims to fame.

Explore their resource rich site and see what they are offering and how including auto usate milano and vendita auto usate. One of the best features on the users’ friendly site is search function. Just tell them your price range and leave your email address and leave rest to them. They will send you required proposals. For consumers, there are so many factors that they have to be considered when buying or selling a car, price being at the top. This feature matches your price range with what you need.

Selling a car is a very personal venture and it can be best taken as an informed experience. Experts can make looking for what you need as a fun and exciting occasion. And Del Park Garage is one of those concerns who are experts in the field. See compro auto usate and you will know.

What makes Del Park Garage a unique service? Their warranties! Go through their comprehensive warranties and it should be able to satisfy you. “We prefer the transparency in the relationship: both those who sell a car with both those who buy. That's why the conclusion of the contract apply the formula "Covenant clear," Transparency in the contracting stage,” the site reads. I suggest if you are looking to buy or sell a car, try compro auto usate at Del Park Garage.

Also read what other satisfied users have been saying about them and it will also help you to make your mind to get the right help. I suggest you try them and make a best purchase.

Aprons and Garments

2011-07-05T07:35:00.009+05:00

I was looking for some best traders dealing in Aprons, Towels, Sports Socks, Beachwear and workwear when I came upon Product Impex – a leading trading company that offers Garments including Aprons and a whole lot more.

Best thing that I like was that they offer private label. That means they will supply what any retailer would like under the name of the buyers. That in turn means your own brand. In the time when consumers want to attach identity to everything they use, this is one of the best trends in trading. Private labels allow you to sell what you want under your own brand.

What is more, Product Impex offers competitive products with high quality and low price. There is no middle man involved in between. Being in business from some time and already with base of happy clients all over the world, Product Impex is an ideal one stop shop for retailers and organizations and those who want to get customized products like apron with your message must have a look and see what is on the offer and how best.

What distinguish them from any other trader is that they also offer edible salt in huge quantities in addition to healthy salt products like salt lamps and artifacts. And their salt comes from one of the best natural Salt resource that has been certified as the best for eating. Have a look and find out more.

Fashion jewelry

2011-06-18T09:57:00.000+05:00

Look around and you will find hip hop jewelry being used all over the world. It has become a big name in fashion circles. Every one seems to be be making personal fashion statement with hip hop jewelry. Like everyone else, I am always interested in hip hop trends. In an effort to fine out the latest, I was searching for fashion jewelry wholesale online when I found Rinadon.com - USA based wholesaler that offers a rich collection of hip hop jewelry wholesale. The collection defines western fashion trends and what people who like style are using. I liked many handbag and Twelve Crystal Shamballa personally. Some more items are on my on my wish list for as a gift to someone who is special to me. Those who are interested in latest hip hop jewelry wholesale must explore the site and see what they offer and how. Also have a look at their perfect personal accessories that can make any one stand out among the crowd.

Wholesale Rinadon.com is a leading wholesaler and distributor. People who like latest fashion trends and styles in Hip hop jewelry wholesale already are familiar with the neatly laid out site and look for best and latest in jewelry must see what is featured there. Explore the site and see what they offer for you. You will find the best satisfaction for any taste and style. Have a look and tell me who else loves Open Teardrop Casting Earrings. I do.

PayPal Alternative

2011-06-16T10:38:00.000+05:00

Free Merchant Account Advisor - one of the free and trusted name - is playing important role in promoting the use of Credit Card Processing, Merchant Accounts, Accept Credit Cards, Online Credit Card Processing, Merchant Credit Card Processing, PayPal Alternative, Credit Card Processing Companies, Credit Card Processing Services, Accept Credit Cards Online, Business Credit Card Processing, Merchant Accounts, High Risk Merchant Accounts and Offshore Merchant Accounts.

That is where they come in when you need to fine one of the best merchant accounts? Thanks to Free Merchant Account Advisor – a free service that helps business owners find the best merchant account out of so many that are available out there. Use the service and find out the best for your needs.

Look around and you will agree that world is moving towards online and paperless economy. One can already see that businesses are already accepting different options for payment. Transactions through credit card, machines and merchant accounts are not only safe for everyone involved but also convenient, fast and error free. But question is that which one is the best merchant account for your particular needs? How to choose one?

I recommend that all businesses need to have a look at the neatly laid out site and get expert advice before making a decision to Accept Credit Cards Online or to open high risk merchant accounts. See what all they are offering and how they can help you. Browse browse through their users’ friendly site. Better still let them take care of all your concerns relating electronic payments. They offer the best advice in your own situation.

Credit Repair Services

2011-06-16T09:33:00.000+05:00

People and businesses do get into difficult credit situation though no one wants to. Given the ever growing needs and wants, many people find themselves in a dilemma of credit repair. Fact is that staying on financial target may be difficult particularly when going gets tough and when economies are as slow as know.

I was looking for Credit Repair Companies online when I came upon a neatly laid out Credit Repair Services where they research for you and recommend which credit repair service to choose and get out of the situation. FreeCreditRepairAdvisor.org is going to offer a free intelligent online interview about a user's credit repair needs, and then recommend the credit repair service they have reviewed that will be the best match for the user's needs and requirements.

The best is to always live within own means but when you are stuck, you must have a look at Free Credit Repair Advisor and find out how the experts at credit repair have helped many in removal of questionable items from their credit reports. This will help you to reorganize your financial situation.

I suggest you explore and find out what is best for you and where to go when you are in need. This will enable you make informed decision to get out of difficult situation.

Kashi Art

2011-06-07T10:56:00.000+05:00

Multan retains in many respects the historic form of the medieval city — the towering citadel of Multan known as Qillah Kohna Qasim Bagh with its noble monuments sheltering the dense and compact walled city shrines and bazaars below. Its history goes back to pre Islamic and possibly to that of Indus valley civilisation and even beyond.

The history of Multani arts and crafts also goes back to medieval period. Kashi work the glazing and hand painting of ceramic products is an important art for which Multan is famous all over the would. The use of foliage or branches and leaves of trees and superb richness of colours (mainly blue) in Kashi work is a evidence of Persian influence. As Persian arts themselves have been under Chinese Mongol influence, there fore some historians are of the view that Kashi work had originally come from Kashghar, China. Over a period of centuries Multani Kashi work has matured and developed a unique and distinctive style of its own.

The art has survived for centuries through generations as its trade secrets like composition of colours were zealously guarded by a handful of artist and their families. Artists like Ustad Allah Waaya, Ustad Allah Diaya, Aziz Ahmand and Mian Rahim Bux were great Kahigar in their times and have left lasting work in the field. Their work ahs lent an immortality to the art.

In 1985, Punjab small industries corporation established an Institute of Blue Pottery Development to save the art from extinction. It further aimed at providing training advisory technical and processing facilities to the private sector in carrying out research and development in the hereditary art of Multan. The institute has trained many artist and developed over 400 designs of pottery and decoration ware. The Institute produces pieces that are sold in the market. Some new ceramic units have been set p in Multan through advisory service and technical assistance of the institute.

In 1853,during a limited excavation on Qillah Kohna Qasim Bagh, Alexander Cunningham found glazed tiles made in Multan in about 900 A. These tiles had been used in the mosque built by Muhammad Bin Qasim on his arrival in Multan. The highest quality Multani tiles have been used in shrines, mosques and other important buildings including house ever since. The shrines of Shah Yousaf Gardezi (1153), Shah Rukne Alam, Ali Akbar, mosque Nawaban, Shrines of Uchh Sharif in Cholistan and Talpuir tombs in Sindh are classic examples of tile work. Kashi work on the walls of shrine of Hazrat Haqani, Sawi Mosque, Shrines of Abdul Latif, and Sachal Sarmast (Sindh) Eidgah Multan and Lahore museum is very distinctive and of a fine quality. Lately Akhtar Abbas Bharwana (ex minister Punjab) has used the tiles from Multan at his house in Jhang. A contemporary artist Ustad Muhammad Alam has executed Kashi work in the house of late actor Sultan Rahi in Lahore.

Blue pottery of Multan is at display in prestigious presidents house, prime ministers secretariat, culture missions of Pakistan in different countries and British Museum London.” Foreign tourists and private collectors love to buy vases vessels planters, cookie jars and table lamps with hand painted in designs like China Kashi, Special Kashi and Bamboo Shoot. World Bank team has also visited the Institute and shown keen interest in the conservation and development of the art.

Paradoxically, local patrons are not very attracted to these products. “Tea set costing rupees 1200/ does not find very many buyers in the local market,” says Hassan Khan, a shopkeeper who sells the ware.

The process of making blue pottery and tiles has undergone many changes with the development in technology. Gas furnaces with controllable and uniform temperature are being used for biscuit firings and glazing instead of wood and dung cake fire. Clay is being procured from Manshera (NWFP), Tharparker (Sindh) and Gujrat instead of local red clay. ” Baking of raw material as per the formula, grinding, kneading, filtration, moulding, biscuit firing at the temperature of 800-850 degree centigrade, Kashi work and glazing at the temperature of 1200 centigrade are all necessary steps in the process,” explained one young artist Muhammad Irfan wile showing everything being done at his concern by 20 ceramists and 15 Kashi artist and their students. “The special blue colour prepared from cobalt oxide and copper oxide is a special technique and distinctive feature of the Kashi work,” he says. The art has evolved into a far more sophisticated process today.

Artist Muhammad Alam who along with his sons is associated with the Kashi work on has represented Pakistan in world crafts council under SAARC program. He has trained over 40 students out of which some are working abroad. “I am working on new designs development and expansion of the noble art. But my work has not been recognized yet.” Muhammad Alam complains a little wistfully. “Besides I don’t have enough money, ” he adds.

Among the various arts that are practiced in Pakistan, Multani Kashi work has attained a higher state of refinement. There is always a room to bring into the art new innovations, endow it with fresh spirit and set the science as its guide. Assistance can be sought from international agencies like UNESCO and the World Bank. The range of possibilities in the field of ceramics is very vast. The whole world can be our market.

Plumbing woes

2011-06-07T10:13:00.001+05:00

Water supplies have become an essential part of contemporary urban life. This is one of the modern conveniences. Of the many kinds of repairs and maintenances required at homes, plumbing tend to intimidate people the most.

Problem is that most residents cannot handle the troubles themselves. Plumbing seems confusing and the specter of leaking water is scary. Most people do not know that doing certain jobs like tightening a basin screw can be easy and safe, provided basic safety precautions are followed. Many homeowners cannot (or do not) tackle minor plumbing problems, like dripping faucets and clogged drains what to talk of repairing leaky water-supply lines or fixing those messy plumbing problems in kitchens and bathrooms.

What you do when an electrician or a plumber is needed in a hurry? You should start at plumber in Dallas the best in plumbing jobs with focus on residential, commercial plumbing and maintenance. Have a look at information rich site and see what all Fort Worth plumbers are offering and how can they make life a lot easier.

Fort Worth plumbing is a plumbing company with both residential and commercial experience. All of their plumbing techs have a minimum of 5 years of working experience. They have earned a good reputation by being honoest and reliable and what is more, they are committed to giving the best customer service possible while being competitive with our pricing. Try them.

Extreme landscaping

2011-05-24T08:37:00.000+05:00

Landscaping is a fine art. It is a favorite human activity in and around living spaces, parks, along roads and at many other places. How can you prepare and improve your existing garden? Landscaping is a specialized job better done by those who are trained and have an experience.

A professional landscaping company is one that will provide you with the lasting look you want for your home property and save you that work. When you want to hire a landscaping company, you should do a little personal research. Once you have chosen the best landscaper, they will take care of the rest.

I suggest you approach Extreme - a successful landscaping and property maintainance company - and learn what service they are offering. Landscaping Oakville can provide you with your dream landscape at affordable prices.

Engage Snow Plowing Burlington and see what they do. Your place will be perfect when the Extreme finishes. Not only that Extreme will ensure that the plants do not start dying after a few days or even weeks. You can have a contract with Extreme fro services like Interlock and Construction, Junk Removal, Property Maintenance or Extreme Synthetic Grass. Havee a look at their uncluttered site and see what they can do for you.

Local Building Materials Including Mud

2011-05-23T12:57:00.000+05:00

Upgrading of Housing

2011-05-21T12:36:00.000+05:00

Norbert Pintsch, Ghayyoor Obaid, Njini Victor, Ndu-Ricardo Coslez - Institute for Planning and Consulting

The departure from tested construction principles (e.g. local construction materials, traditional construction methods) in the last decade has resulted in our forgetting, that construction units have a "life" of their own.

Does this fact remain unconsidered, even the best design features cannot to conceal the wrongful investment : scrap remains scrap !

In the current understanding of economics, construction objects get an image of positive Return on Investment, because the consequences of Technolgy Inputs have either not at all or only formally been evaluated.

This means in the practice, that even after a lapse of decades, the erroneousness of the development has not been recognized.

A building leads to Return on Investment for the owner, without however the resultant costs being a burden on the investor or bringing relief to the general public.

The resultant costs are carried unknowingly by the general public!

Were the building units developed future-oriented, not in the sense of modernistic designing, the costs would be enormous and the projects would not be justified under the western economic theories. Instead of finding solutions, these are simply passed on to the next generation.

In order not to further waste the enormous resources already spent on erroneous measures regarding the energy efficiency of an object, the object should not be dismantled, rather it is to be checked for a possibility of Up gradation!

Up gradation here means the technical enhancement as well as functional adjustment of a construction unit!

Preparatory Measures and Possibilities of Improvement

An analysis of different construction systems is to be carried out on a construction object and the local factors determined. A projection is to be made, in which form and scope different measures for preservation are to be carried out.

An important aspect will be the Covering of buildings or one building, in order to stabilize or reduce the energy consumption.

A construction and material analysis will probably reveal, how much sense extensive measures still make.

As a short term measure, the Orientation of a buildings complex can reduce energy consumption through photo-voltaic systems.

Such solutions are generally as well as individually possible for apartments.

To what extent the traditional elements of Wall openings (doors, windows) are feasible as energy brakes, will also depend upon offers of alternative technology and materials from the industry.

The covering of the facade with solar collectors and panels is already considered here.

Loss of Design-Ideas

Through the extensive use of CAD-Software almost everywhere and its excessive use, we are able to make interesting construction diagrams, which are able to be constructed with modern methods, but which will be registered by our successors with a mixture of surprise and disgust, as these concepts make combined use of poly-crystalline and bio-molecular structures.

In order not to eliminate the possibility of designing innovation, it is important to deal with the wall coverings with special care.

Similar as today, in future also one will want to retain a feeling of homeliness in buildings for psychological and social reasons and further, to retain buildings and living colonies for the purpose of historical preservation.

Here, the Individual characteristics of a region play a role.

Dealing with technical infra-structure

All technical systems, which correspond to the positive industrial examples from the past, are to be put to test.

These include the functioins Cleaning, Cooking, Arranging and disposing, which have led to the development of kitchens, house work rooms, toilets and wash rooms.

Living beings function with an exchange mechanism of foodstuffs and fluids while utilizing the energy required for processing, this not being a classic scientific definition but intended rather to represent in a simple manner, what we do not practice directly in our kitchens. We should proceed by analyzing an individual intake of food, its digestion process and its quantification.

The intake and outflow are measurable in systems and for that reason able to be stored in reusable containers, which requires the construction of certain rooms and limits the design options. The system of Body cleaning changes itself in a similar manner.

The required fluid stands at our disposal for utilization and after the consumption cleaned in a permanent cycle as long as computer-supported analysis do not require a complete exchange.

The mentioned changes have a substantial affect on the structural changes, which are therefore not able to be considerted separately.

Special attention must be paid to room temperature. Central solutions are extremely sensitive because central installations have deficiencies, which can lead to various contaminations. This danger is present basically only in central infra-structure.

Economic reasons are oftenm cited as pro argument for central infra-structure, but it does not justify itself in a closer examination.

De-central installations are described as exclusive and un-economic; under security aspects and even long-term economic considerations however, these have proven themselves to be more suitable. The already very advanced glass technology has not played an important role in the facade designing uptill now, which makes air-conditioning possible only through expensive systems, in which amortization is not possible. Available exits (e.g. Balconies and terraces) are to be given a new area of utility. The facade are to be used, just as the exits, for the purpose of water re-cycling. This is already being practiced since quite some time. The grey water of a residential unit is processed in a flower pot like unit on the facade. One can describe it as a transitional stage between centralized and de-centralized technology.

Individual solutions should also be possioble for large housing complexes,- showing how well the future-oriented alternative industry can perform. A special problem in the high-rise buildings are the vertical transport systems.

Development of a new concept here will become unavoidable, whereby the vacating of higher storeys of a building will be required, in order to use the wind for replacing and regulating the usual but very intensive wastage of energy.

Summary:

Basic changes in construction take place through replacement of fixed units Bath-Kitchen-WC by Recyclable containerunits. The supply and disposal mechanism works on individual basis and decentralized. The users are intregrated into the energy conservation system, for example through the facade openings. The facade designing is subject to the techniocal systems; openings in the facade are determined by the individual requirement of temperature adjustment, e.g. heating pumps..

The building or the building complexes are energetically for main wind doirection and physical experiments in the wind canal. They function as autonomous energy producers.

Their energy production defines the vertical transport system.

Add value in living spaces

2011-05-20T22:05:00.000+05:00

Gray concrete is so monotonous. It gives a similar drab look every where. Thanks to Hurricane Concrete that this can change. Yes, you can change the entire outlook. Have a look at Hurricane Concrete and see how you can change interior, exterior and also see how you can be creative and add value as well as repair concrete. Have you ever thought to change old grey concrete driveway, basement, patio or garage floor into a beautiful, stunning one of a kind work of art. Yes, it is possible.

I suggest you have a look at general contractors Edmonton see how they work and what they can do. Also have a look at the Edmonton home renovations before taking on any renovation of the living spaces. Best thing is that Hurricane Concrete uses stat of the art and eco friendly technologies and tools to create designs, colors or patterns. Examplesof the work on their site give a feeler of how they can change the look.

Concrete repair Edmonton offers free quotes, approach [(780) 940-7328] them and leave rest to them. They will do a good job.

Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch with the VC Mr. Sartaj Aziz

2011-05-04T15:30:00.001+05:00

Mud House

2011-04-22T20:24:00.000+05:00

Electricity from a flying kite

2011-04-20T09:10:00.000+05:00

Pakistani press publicized in the summer of 2010 that a hobby scientist managed to produce as much as 3 volts direct current by launching a 10 square foot kite.

The young man by the name of Shakeel Amir resides in Shirin Muafi, a village close to the city of Okara. The AFA (NGO) Center of Technology Transfer and Training in the village of Thatta Ghulamka Dhiroka plans another experiment using no source of power at all (prior experiments required electricity!) to improve the results.

As with other NGO projects, the results of the latest experiments are supposed to improve the situation in the rural areas where insufficient technical infrastructure leads to various shortcomings. There is a continuous demand for decentralized power supply due to the fact that no help from the city can be expected.

NGO Experience

Since it's foundation in 1993, NGO has tested and implanted innovations prior to any public attention.
1996 first photovoltaic Installation in Punjab in the TGD Women Center
1998 Installation of according technology (Solar hot plates and kitchen modules)
2000 The project is part of Expo 2000 (voted as Asian advanced technology development)
2002 Work involving droplet irrigation for a cucumber project
2003 Joint venture between AFA Pakistan and CAT (Centre for appropriate Technology) / Cameroon
2004 Workshop regarding Appropriate Technology in Adamghot near Karachi
2006 Workshop regarding Appropriate Technology at COMSATS in Abottabad
2008 Preparation for a project regarding passive solar architecture and internet radio to broadcast in rural areas.
2010 Mud Housing Project participation in Lahore with the AT of AFA's (NGO's) TTTC incl. Wind Mill.

Background information regarding the Technology

Internationally scientists continue to create new forms of generating electricity. Up to this day most of the solutions were ground based. Selected scientist are now considering the sky.

The system is rather simple and easy to understand. A kite is launched and the more wind you have the higher the kite will ascend, spooling a chord off from a reel driving a generator.

Once the kite has reached it's final altitude, it is drawn back by an electric motor that uses less energy than the kite produced during flight. The entire act is computer controlled.

A 64-year old Professor Ockels is the head of the Institute For Sustainable Engineering and Technology at the Technical University in Delft, Netherlands. He is a physicist and has been an astronaut on a space mission in the mid eighties. He has been dreaming about kites generating energy for a long time and believes in the sky as a future power supply.

Ockels and his team have conducted experiments with 100 square feet kites producing as much as 10kW electrical power. Enough to supply 10 households. The scientists believe that high flying kites linked with each other can drive generators producing as much as 100 MW to serve 100.000 households. Ockels envisions 50 or more kites as big as soccer fields flying as high as 3.000 feet.

In other parts of the world scientists are also planning kite projects to produce electrical power. Some of them hope to produce a hundredfold of the global demand.

In 2007 an American company by the name of Makani invested 15 million US dollars to produce energy with flying kites. Makani is a subsidiary of the internet search engine Google. The Italy based company Kitegen plans to launch a number of kites to produce as much as 1 GW of electrical power. The amount of power an average coal-fired power plant would produce.

Peerzada Cultural Complex AT Workshop with Sohni and Rani

2011-04-16T10:53:00.001+05:00

Children Learn to Protect Environment

September 26-30, 2011

Mud Housing Project started in October 2010 on the premises of Peerzada Cultural Complex (PCC), in which three types of mud houses and use of appropriate technology was introduced to the interested public.

The event followed three objectives:

Examples of mud houses in rural areas and areas affected by the Indus flooding.
Motivation for students of architecture for the purpose of experimentation, measurement and study of concepts in order to develop strategy for helping the affected population of the catastrophe.
Residence for craftsmen, who belong to areas far away from Lahore.

Of course, one of the main objectives was also to motivate the urban population towards construction of more energy efficient houses. With the scarcity of energy in current times, this is an important objective for public as well as private application.

We must provide a platform for the students to start experimenting.

The illustration shows Sohni and Rani, who are explaining the functionality of alternative technology devices to each other.

Our main contribution here is to show the simultaneous use of the construction material mud in harmony with appropriate technology, which will be done in a playful manner in a workshop for children. We connect thereby entertainment and education. To achieve the purpose, among others, alternative energy is used to make cakes and hot chocolate for children.

The AFA (NGO), SPARC (NGO), FPAC, SES Bonn, as well as German Embassy supports the project.

Energy solution for tomorrow

2011-04-11T10:11:00.000+05:00

Readers here may remember the Mud House Project that was inaugurated in October 2010 at Peerzada Cultural Complex, Green Acre, Lahore? Now another type of housing concept is under way which will include an improved version of the Solar Cooker and a Wind Energy System using a Kite. This is another type of low cost low-technology solutions not only for the rural areas but also worth considering for urban areas that can help build eco friendly energy efficient housing and autonomous technical infra-structure.

In the following images, Shakeel is explaining the kite project to the visitors at TTTC:

Pakistani Siyasat Ke Razdan Sahafi

2011-03-27T12:31:00.001+05:00

Pakistani Siyasat Ke Razdan Sahafi a book by Mohammad Muzaffar Ali (MMA) - initiator and co-founder of SPARC (Society for the Promotion of Art and Culture) and an inspiration for a whole generation of journalists. Inspite of all the stress of his journalistic tasks, he was always available for events and special projects together with his colleague Anees Yaqub and other members of the SPARC team. What MMA accomplished during his lifetime will always remain as a beacon light for us.

Related: Pakistan slide show

Quality, modern and ergonomic furniture

2011-03-23T19:32:00.000+05:00

Everyone likes quality, modern and ergonomic furniture at home (and elsewhere). The quality of furniture used in home where I spend most of my time and where I come back to relax and recharge is very important to me, personally.

In the cyber when savvy businesses are successfully harnessing the power of the web through their presence online and functional websites, it I possible to find what you need at online furniture store. Searching online for telephone tables when I was led to QualityFurniture4u.com - one of the best places where I found wide range of furniture including home furniture (for bed rooms, dinning rooms, baths and kitchens) office furniture, display cabinets as well as items for gardens and conservatories. You can browse through and see a lot of variety on display to chose from and make an informed buying decision about what suits your taste and need. The collection has all type of furniture including bedside tables.

Imagery is good and one have a feeler of how those furniture items will look being used at home or elsewhere. That is what makes easier for anyone to make a decision to buy online. Browse through their collection from the comfort of your own home and make your choice. This is the easiest way to shop these days.

Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch

2011-03-12T09:06:00.000+05:00

Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch has been working tirelessly on Appropriate Technology in Cameroon, Pakistan and elsewhere.

I have the fortune to be familiar with Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch’s work in Technical Transfer and Training Center (TTTC) for Men in remoe Pakistani Village Thatta Ghulamka Dheroka, Mud Housing Project here in Lahore and also what he has been doing to promote African energy through the use of solar energy with the meaningful and active coopration with Senior Expect Service (SES) Bonn-Germany and Society for the Advancement of Culture (DGFK) Berlin Germany as solutions to Climate Change and adaptation.

Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch has experience with no less than 133 projects since 1976 and each one of them has made a visible difference in more than one ways.

To recognize the work of Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch, the Senate of the Bamenda University of Science and Technology (BUST) on the Nomination of Board of Governors of Industrial and Educational Development Company (INDECO) Ltd have conferred upon Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch the Honorary Title of Doctor of Science with all the Rights and Previleges Thereto Pertaining in Recognation of his tangible Services to the Cause of Appropriate Technology on Feb 19, 2011.

Big congratulations Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch.

Also at Light Within

Modern furniture

2011-03-03T09:11:00.000+05:00

In the age cyber when savvy businesses are successfully harnessing the power of the web through their presence online and functional websites, it I possible to find what you need at online furniture store. I was searching for modern bedroom sets when I came upon Farrelli - one of the best places where one can find wide range of modern furniture for home and office. You can browse through and see a lot of variety on display to chose from and make an informed buying decision about what suits your taste and need. The collection has all type of furniture including modern dining room sets.

The site is neatly laid out and uncluttered. They also offer different payment options including PayPal. Imagery is good and one have a feeler of how those furniture items will look being used at home or elsewhere. That is what makes easier for anyone to make a decision to buy online. Browse through bedroom sets in NYC from the comfort of your own home and make your choice. This is the easiest way to shop these days.

Upgrading of Mud Housing

2011-03-02T09:06:00.000+05:00

After getting honorary degree of Doctor of Science from BUST in Cameroon, Dr. Norbert Pintsch is arriving in Pakistan in March 2011. He is planning to work on Upgrading of Mud Housing, a Workshop with Appropriate Technology on Peerzada Complex and Kite-project in TGD (Electricity through kites) and much more.

Mudlarking

2011-02-26T11:33:00.000+05:00

Meet the man who claims his new TV show is about to do for mudlarking what Clarkson and co have done for motoring here

Made in Chaniot

2011-02-21T09:31:00.000+05:00

Chiniot (Chaniot) - the name is enough to start the furniture lovers, travelers and cautiously curious dreaming. Antiquity is the first message of the town. And, international quality furniture "made in Chaniot" is collectors delight with potentials for marketing all over the world.

On the bank of River Chenab in area called Sandal Bar, Chaniot town is an exotic place in the foot of series of hillocks that seem to be man made rather than evidence of old mountains. The town is very ancient. It was inhabited before the time when Alexander of Macedon came in the South Asia and was principal City during the rule of White Huns. Chinese explorer Hiuen Tsiang visited it. Alberuni has mentioned in Kitabul-Hind that Chaniot was one of the there most important places in this part of the world.

Chaniot suffered much from the Durrani inroads during the last half of the eighteenth century and also during the troubles of I848 because it remained the scene of constant fierce struggle among the leaders of local factions. As per the local legend, portion of the wall, surviving in situ, had been built during Hellenic period. The veracity of the wall's association with Alexander the great is yet to be proved though. But the sit does give evidence of its distant past.

During the Mughal era, Chaniot produced many intelligent personalities and talented artisans who occupied positions in the Mughal courts, Nawab Saad Ullah Khan and Nawab Wazir Khan held the post of prime minister of India and the Governor of Lahore respectively during the rule of King Shah Jehan.

Artisans of Chaniot have instinctive good taste and they have achieved a distinctive excellence in woodwork. Masons of the town are said to have been employed during the construction of Taj Mahal at Agra and Golden Temple at Amritsar. Special type of furniture with brightly lacquered woodcarving is made in Chaniot and is famous all over the world.

What this internationally acclaimed craft of the town needs is an institutional patronization and extensive efforts for international marketing? Made in Chaniot furniture is already being shipped to different countries but so far there are very little marketing efforts being made for this purpose. It can be a potent source of earning foreign exchange if attention is paid to and earnest efforts are made. Sadly, the trained incompetents responsible for export promotion do not see this and the unique potentials are not being taped yet. The first exhibition of Chanioti furniture in Islamabad last year was attended by large number of people from all walks of life. Particularly foreigners appreciated the furniture for its style, solidity and the cost.

Apart from furniture, there are more attractions for any visitor to this off the beaten track tranquil town. A towering architectural masterpiece Shahi Mosque, which was built during rule of Mughal King Shah Jehan by Nawab Saad Ullah Khan in 1655, is still functional. It resembles the Shahi Mosque Delhi that was also built under the supervision of Nawab Saad Ullah Khan. After the invasions of British, the city lost its old glory and importance. However, the historical buildings and their ruins are scattered in and around the city, reflect its wonderful past.

Another such building is the Umar Hayat Palace commonly known as the Gulzar Mahal. Attracting local and foreign tourist, it is known for its beauty and legendary tales attached to it. The palace is said to have been built by Sheikh Umar Hayat, a rich merchant whose family originally migrated to Chaniot from India.

Legend has it that in a village fair at Panda Haitian, Umar Hayat fell in love with a performer girl and married. She bore him a son and a daughter. Umar Hayat grew particularly fond of his son whom he named Gulzar - a rose garden or a sign of happiness. It was for his son that Umar Hayat decided to construct a wonderful palace and name after him. Umar Hayat could not see the palace completed and later his son Gulzar died mysteriously in the palace in the early hours of his marriage night.

A different tale reveals that the construction of the palace was a result of rivalry between Umar Hayat and Elahi Baksh - a famous artisan of the time. The latter taunted the Umar Hayat by saying that his artistic abilities were superior to all the wealth in the world. Infuriated, Umar Hayat counter claimed that his money would last long enough to buy all the possible feats skilled artisans could offer.

The result of the challenge was the creation of Gulzar Manzil. The construction of the palace started in 1923 and Umar Hayat lavishly spent his wealth. According to one account, the supervision of the construction was assigned to Syed Hassan Shah who gathered famous artisans and carried out day and night work for ten years. Elahi Baksh and Rahim Baksh did the wood carving, for which the palace is known. Both were masters of the art. The Punjab District Gazetteers reads, "The house built by Sheikh Umar Hayat is a sort of wonder."

The imposing building is a work of art. The woodwork, the stucco work, inlay of bricks, use of marbles and floral design in the roof, stairways and balconies are living memories of the glories of the Mughal period. Very elaborate and extensive woodwork in the palace speak of the craftsmanship of the artisans who perfected it beyond amazing limits. One has to possess a sensibility shaped in granite not to be moved after seeing the woodwork even today.

The palace originally had six stories including a basement. Two of the upper stories decayed and had to be demolished in 1978. Remains of the building are in the care and custody of Auqaf. Presently it is in public use and houses a library section and a small museum.

Market town in the expanses of Punjab bears a prosperous look. Chaniot has every thing necessary for development: hard working and talented people, fertile land, water, communication infrastructure and clean healthy environment. The furniture industry can be converted into important source of earning though efficient 'marketing mix'. Given chance Chaniot can be a nice and rich little city of the future.

Appropriate Housing

2011-02-19T08:56:00.001+05:00

Owais Mughal

This post is about alternative, cheaper and earthquake resistant housing for Pakistan. At ATP we’ve covered alternative building styles before when S A J Shirazi wrote about using mud to build homes. A couple of my friends recently pointed out to me an earthquake resistant straw bale housing style that was practised in Pakistan (and also other countries) after the devastating earthquake of 2005. This project was started in Pakistan by a non-profit group called Pakistan Straw Bale and Appropriate building (PAKSBAB). In the aftermath of 2005 earthquake of Pakistan PAKSBAB built these houses for poor by using straw, an agricultural by-product, compressed and tied into bales, as building blocks.

Following photo shows a straw-bale house under construction in Pakistan in the aftermath of 2005 earthquake. Photo credits: PAKSBAB.

This technique makes the structures earthquake resistant. The project’s founder is Darcey Dononvan who is a mechanical engineer by profession. The reason for us sharing this post here is to provide food for thought for alternate housing styles in earthquake zones - and Pakistan has quite a few of them. I also want to thank PAKSBAB for carrying out this project in Pakistan.

I found following video by University of Nevada, Reno at youtube where Darcey is explaining her project in Pakistan as well as it shows the results of earthquake simulation.

February 5, 2010’s Science Magazine also mentioned this project. An excerpt from there goes like this:

Some engineers want to rethink the basic materials used in developing countries. Darcey Donovan advocates replacing concrete walls with load-bearing straw bales. Her nonprofit group, PakistanStraw Bale and Appropriate Building, erects 7.3-m-by-7.3- m houses in northwest Pakistan, which was ravaged by an earthquake in 2005. The bales are stacked and bound together top to bottom with a fishnet, which keeps them from slipping apart during shaking, then plastered over. Her team has built 11 houses so far, with six more coming. The design recently survived, with minimal damage, a violent test on a shake table, a large platform that simulates earthquakes. Because the tough, fibrous plants used for straw are ubiquitous, Donovan believes the bale design could easily be exported, and her team is discussing traveling to Haiti.

References:

1. Pakistan Straw Bale and Appropriate Building (PAKSBAB)

2. Science Magazine

3. University of Nevada, Reno - Earthquake Engineering Simulation

Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch on Mud, Slums and History

2011-02-07T10:37:00.000+05:00

Use credit cards

2011-02-01T20:21:00.000+05:00

Credit cards have come a log way since they were introduced. Given the convenience and safety in handling money transactions, every one, businesses as well as consumers, is opting for credit cards. Best thing is that the trend to use credit cards growing fast. At the same time related services are also increasing making it possible for every one to discover card. Financial institutions are trying to make allowances for individuals, bad credit notwithstanding.

It is in this milieu that I was looking for easy credit card processing online information when I came upon Flagship Merchant Services – one of the leading Merchant Account Providers - and was amazed to see what all they are offering including credit card services how they can help businesses to accelerate their transactions. Flagship Merchant Services is playing important role in promoting the trend and culture by offering wide range of products and services covering specific requirements for any business. Information and resource rich site guides you through to have want suites you the best. Have a look and learn more.

Analysts and trend watchers can see more use of credit cards at every outlet and point where money has to change hands. They are in consensus when they say that anyone still not using credit card will be left behind.

Improve your quality of life

2011-01-22T11:46:00.000+05:00

Everyone needs medical care and insurance coverage. One does not have to be an expert to see the advantages of insurance coverage; particularly for medical problems. Have a look at AARP and you will know why I say this. Best thing is that growing awareness has increased the demand for insurance services in the last couple of decades. Now there are so many solutions available in the market. Services like Az Medicare – specialist in Medicare Insurance that represent the top insurance companies in Arizona, bringing you the top best rates and the best service – are doing a wonderful job in educating and helping people to have Medical Advantage.

Explore neatly laid out AZ Medicare and find out why do you need a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plans AZ? I found out that Medicare only covers 80% after you pay your deductible. That leaves your deductible plus a minimum of 20 % for you to PAY and you could have excess charges over what Medicare allows. While browsing, I picked up some good ideas for myself. Medicaid AZ will sure improve your quality of life.

I suggest you also have a look and see what AZ Medicare is offering and how best.

Mud Village for Handicraft Men

2011-01-20T11:15:00.000+05:00

Concept of shifting to mud architecture is creating waves in Pakistan. It is heartening to know that a lot is happening to convert this concept in to a reality in the form of proposed Mud Village, Peerzada Festival Area, Lahore.

Mud is an excellent construction material. It is being used as a building material since prehistoric times. Mud structures can still be found in a variety of climates across the globe; In Pakistan, it is most strongly associated with rural culture. The idea of mud building is now coming to urban areas. Construction of model mud village in Lahore is the case in point.

Society for the Promotion of Art and Culture (SPARC), registered in Lahore since 1994, is starting construction of mud village for handicraft men. Prof. Dr. Norbert Pintsch (Senior Expert Service Bonn, Germany) is planning to coordinating the project and giving it a practical shape.

Prof. Dr. Norbert Pintsch is an experienced architect by profession is very passionate about mud architecture. Since completing first building project as an architect at the age of 18, Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch has been in various activities as an architect and civil engineer all his life.

In addition, Iqbal, a local builder from Harrapa, Ghayyoor Obaid, a famous architect, Peerzada Festival Area, a concern that is providing space for construction of mud village near world famous Puppetry Museum are also involved in the project. Beacon House University, Department of Architecture and Building Research Institute are also likely to participate.

It is not good enough to assume that “everything from the past is good. It is necessary to show,” says Dr. Norbert Pintsch who is very passionate about the project. Like national University in Colombia where students practice construction with local materials like bamboo and wood, the project will give an opportunity to the students of Beacon House University to practice what they have been learning while adapting the construction technique mixed with appropriate technology in Pakistan.

Prof. Dr. Norbert Pintsch never gets tired of talking about his passion and, given my own interest, I don’t get tired of listening about the details of the project. Please stay tuned and I will endeavor to bring every detail as the project unfolds.

Plumbing and Heating Learning Center

2011-01-20T09:47:00.000+05:00

Water supplies have become a vital part of contemporary urban society. These are some of the modern conveniences. Plumbing seems difficult and the specter of leaking water is scary. Problem is that most residents cannot handle the plumbing troubles when they come in.

What they can do. Best thing people can do is that they should use best the highest quality radiant heating and plumbing supplies at the construction stage. While looking for PEX tubing, I came upon PexUniverse.com – and was amazed to see their wide range of products includes PEX tubing, Taco circulator pumps, PEX manifolds for plumbing and radiant heat manifolds, zone and mixing valves and much more available at very competitive rates. I suggest you explore the neatly laid out and uncluttered site and see what they are offering and how.

Site is neatly laid out and users friendly. You can explore products by brands or search for what you need. They offer different payment options including PayPal. The best for any users is PEX Universe Learning Center – an archive of the useful and informative articles. I picked up some great idea while browsing through those articles. I suggest you to have a look at PEX tubing supplies and make an informed decision.

Mud House Owner in Rural Areas (MORA)

2011-01-20T08:16:00.000+05:00

Owners of a number of mud houses in a village have joined hands in a conservation project for the purpose of promoting the traditional culture.

The program consists of part funding of conservation costs and it is accompanied by an observation program, in which physical measurements are carried out. The amount of support is disbursed at the end of the conservation work.

Since year 2000, the village has already been participating in a project called "Preservation of Cultural Heritage", in which SPARC has been giving away prizes for:

the best mud-house,
the best detail and
the best brick-work.

SPARC decided last year to initiate an annual conservation program for selected objects as a reminder for the advantages of mud-construction and implementation for the public good.

Solar energy

2011-01-19T20:55:00.000+05:00

Most sources of conventional energy are finite and costly. What is more, increasing energy usage is causing pollution at an increasing rate. Thanks to the growing awareness and the latest developments that we now have an alternative available in the form of solar energy - natural, free and infinite source. Which is why it is recommended that we should make more use solar energy? Best thing is that solar energy is clean, free and safe. Solar panels system converts sunlight into electricity, even on cloudy days. It is even more suitable for remote locations that are not connected with national grid and where conventional energy is yet not available.

Given my own interest, I was looking for information on solar PV when I came upon the Energy Conservation Group – the UK's leading installers of renewable energy systems. The Energy Conservation Group is playing important role in driving sustainable change for the better in the way people heat their homes and generate eco-friendly energy. Have a look at the neatly laid out site and see what they are offering and how the solar system works or what is air source heating.

Best thing is that solar power saves your money too. It is natural and free source of energy. You can also earn by selling surplus power back to the grid. As per law, the energy companies are supposed to pay you a healthy premium for your power. They also have the right to put everyone's bills up to pay for the income you could be earning. What is more, you can create a big tax free income by generating your own power. Call 01202 811169 and find out more. Better still, invest in solar panel electricity and help save your money and our collective environment.

The Energy Conservation Group site is neatly laid out and uncluttered. It is information rich and clearly explains the benefits of solar energy. I suggest you have a look. This will help you make informed energy decision.

Sustainable Mud Structures

2011-01-19T08:56:00.000+05:00

Mud buildings have withstood the test of time; will they populate our futures too?

Think of Islamic mud structures and more than likely the iconic Great Mosque of Djenne in Mali will come to mind. The largest mud brick building in the world, the mosque is considered to be amongst the greatest achievement of Sudano-Swahelian architecture and one of the most famous landmarks of Africa.

But it’s not only Africa that boasts impressive (and sustainable) mud structures, the Middle East is home to some of the most stunning mud buildings in the world. From the ‘Manhattan of the Desert’ in Yemen to the Bam citadel of Iran, these mud structures show that there’s more to Muslim architecture than Mecca and Masdar.

Why is Mud Sustainable?

For thousands of years, mud has been used as building material because it’s cheap, widely available and durable. Although many question its durability, there are numerous ancient mud buildings which have withstood the test of time. Mud construction is also an extremely environmentally-friendly method as it creates little waste, there is minimal energy consumption (mostly in the construction and transportation process), and it is easy to maintain and recycle.

In fact, Hassan Fathy, who has been hailed as the Middle East’s father of sustainable architecture and was behind eco-projects such as the Gourna village in Egypt wrote: “For centuries, the peasant had been wisely and quietly exploiting the obvious building material, while we, with our modern school-learned ideas, never dreamed of using such a ludicrous substance as mud for so serious a creation as a house.”

Modern Living in Mud Homes

Yemen is home to one of the most impressive, one of the oldest and also one of the tallest mud cities in the world. Before the city scrapers of New York, the city of Shibam had built high rise apartments out of mud which tower to over 100 feet and are between 5 and 11 storeys high. Dating back to around the 2nd century AD, the city was built using local clay and is still home to around 7,000 residents who live in the fortified city. Although it is over 2,000 years old, rain and erosion necessitates constant maintenance, which efforts are now supported by restoration and urban development programmes. Nicknamed ‘Manhattan of the Desert, the city is testament to the durability of mud not just for single structures but also for modern high-rise living.

Another impressive city made of mud is Bam in Iran. Built using mud bricks known as adobe, the Bam tower or citadel (Arg-e-Bam) is believed to have been the largest adobe building in the world and was built over 2,000 years ago. At its peak, the city served as a site of pilgrimage and was the trading centre of the Silk Road, which brought goods from the Far East to the capitals of Europe. Sadly, an earthquake in 2003 destroyed a large part of the historic city (around 70%) and killed over 26,000 people.

Mud Castles, Walls and Mosques

Other notable mud structures in the wider Muslim world include the Bob Dioulasso Grand Mosque in Burkina Faso, and the Khiva Wall in Uzbekistan, which is built around a collection of Islamic schools and mosques. The Siwa Oasis in Egypt and the Eastern Castle in Syria have also employed mud bricks in their construction, and research shows that the famous walls of Jericho were built using sun-dried mud bricks.

Whilst these mud buildings may seem like something of the past, they are in fact increasingly considered as options for low-carbon and low-cost construction. As well as having a small footprint, mud structures have been shown to reduce energy consumption as they are able to regulate temperature.

Hopefully mud architecture will not only decorate our past, but our future too.

Image of Great Mosque in Mali via Juan Manuel Garcia and image of Bisham in Yemen by Aysegul Tastaban.

Vapor cigarette

2011-01-18T21:55:00.000+05:00

Thanks to advancement in technologies that life has better choices now. Electronic cigarettes, also called vapor cigarette, are a case in point here. This fact needs no clarification that electronic cigarettes are much better choice than smoking cigarettes, pipe or tobacco in any other form. What is more, e cigs are environment friendly and save those who are around smokers from passive smoking. There is no passive smoking for anyone around you.

Best thing about e cig is that it allows you to choose your own nicotine level (you have a choice of high, medium, low, or non-nicotine cartridges). Smokers have never had such a choice to control the intake of nicotine ever before. In addition, there are different flavors of nicotine liquid available and you can have your own favorite. Imagine that you can now start at high and work your way to medium, low, or non-nicotine (or vice-versa). This gives smokers much more freedom when it comes to nicotine consumption and is definitely being liked by the smokers anywhere in the world.

Electric cigarettes do not burn anything, there are no ashes, no holes in cloths and carpets and no mess associated with them. What is more, you can set them down anywhere you like. Have a look at eCig.com and learn more about electronic cigarettes and how they save you money as well as add a bit of style in your smoking persona.

Explore information and resource rich Vapor King.org and learn what the benefits of electronic cigarettes are and how you can take advantage of this wonderful nice looking device. Vapor King.org is a neatly laid out and users’ friendly site that offers Vapor King – one of the best electronic cigarette brands – and all its accessories.

Vapor King Premium E Liquid allows you to refill and reuse your Vapor King cartridges. Extensive flavor selection (10 in total) is cheaper to refill than to purchase new cartridges Simple to do! And the Vapor Starter Kit includes 1 VK Battery, 1 VK Atomizer, 1 5-pack of Cartridges (your choice of strength and flavor, prefilled or empty), 1 Free bottle of eLiquid (Non-Nicotine Tobacco Flavored), 1 home outlet charger 1 users manual, 1 gift box, white with orange LED, black with blue LED stainless steel with blue LED pink with purple LED metallic blue with blue LED. They offer a great choice.

Have a look and see what is available and how. Better still try it and enjoy.

Cooperation in Mud Housing Project

2011-01-17T12:29:00.000+05:00

The Mud Housing Project is being currently implemented by SPARC in Lahore.

SPARC had taken up the initiative years ago in order to remind of the importance of mud as construction material and to sensitize the general public in this respect.

Mud is not a construction material of the past; that steel concrete and bricks have pushed back such good construction material is a story in itself. Considering the enormous costs of cooling and heating the current form of buildings, it becomes quite clear that mud is environmentally friendly, energy efficient and biologically far superior.

In order to realize the initiative, SPARC was successful in arranging foreign support as well as a local architect, who is working since the year 2000 in south western Punjab, and together with DGFK, it has been giving prizes under the Preservation of Cultural Heritage program: for the best maintained Mud House, Brick House and the most interesting Design.

Example of appropriate technology (solar cooker i.e.) will also be available for demonstration purpose and in order to be independent of the public technical infrastructure.

This combination was also greeted by the universities PU, COMSATS, BNU, who find it useful for involvement of students in practical projects: construction physical measurements are part of the MHP as also experiments with materials.

Generally speaking, the MHP comes at a time of extreme flooding misery around the river Indus and therefore unintended becomes current in its own right. There are however no demonstrated examples of the concept, which can contribute to experience and which can be adjusted for example for usage in the crisis regions.

The initiative described above is small, but it has a large potential: Help at the Indus is of course a priority, but the construction methods in the urban areas are to be examined closely in terms of energy consumption. Mud housing is normally ground floor construction, but there are also interesting mud house examples in double storey construction.

A project of experimental construction is therefore required for a more exact evaluation and experimentation of this and other aspects of mud housing.

Air Arik

2011-01-15T11:31:00.000+05:00

Travelling is a lifestyle and a trend. Growing human activities has resulted in increase in travel for business, pleasure and or leisure. This growth has given birth to increase travel service that facilitate you and help you get tickets, save money on airfares, hotel accommodations, hire cars and airport transfers at different destination around the world.

I have been travelling whenever I could. Given my own interest, I try to keep a watch better services, newer services and cheaper services to get tickets. I use the info for my writings and also try them when I need to. Travelling to Africa by Arik Air is one of my new finds.

Pure competition is one of the best factors that have created great choices for frequent travellers. Every airline is trying to do its best in offering lowest fare, luxury and comfort to attract passengers. Arik Air is a case in point here.

While searching for cheap flights to Lagos from London and quality services to destinations in Africa, I came upon flights to Lagos from London – a travel company that can take care of all your travel needs. They supply low cost flights from hundreds of Airlines to over 500 travel agents in the United Kingdom. BTW, if you can’t find your required route, call them and leave the rest to them.

Making Money in Online Pakistan

2010-12-24T19:01:00.001+05:00

Read Year end blogging review - 2010 here.

Opening ceremony and press conference Mud Housing Project

2010-12-20T09:50:00.000+05:00

Mr Dauth from German Embassy and guests with Prof Dr Norbert Pintsch and Thikedar Mr Iqbalon Mud Housing Project from Appropriate Technology in Green Acre, Peerzada Cultural Complex, Lahore

Visitors from Punjab University with Prof Mansoor Durrani discussing Mud Housing Project and applications of Appropriate Technology at Peerzada Cultural Complex, Lahore

Posters display (about Handicraft, Dolls Project in Pakistan,Cameroon, Colombia, Europe) in Village Museum; The Posters are a gift from International Dolls Museum in Iceland, the cooperative partner

Posters display (about Mud Housing and Appropriate Technology), TTTC from AFA had inspired SPARC (NGO) Lahore for this project. TTTC in TGD is working in close cooperation with CAT in Bamenda

Visitors in Thatta Ghulamka Dheroka (AFA-TTTC), with Mr Farooq about Kite Project for electricity production

Members from Lahore Mud Housing Project talking with Mr Farooq discussing about Mud Houses and Appropriate Technology

The Convocation

2010-12-07T11:42:00.000+05:00

Social Media

2010-12-06T23:00:00.000+05:00

Use of social media applications is being debated across the World Wide Web. Fans support the usage of tools like Blog, tweet, Facebook to break down barriers between businesses, public servants and ordinary people to discuss ideas and gather feedback. Trend watches and analysts still see the social media tools as time wasting diversions. It is in this milieu that we need to look at the fast growing social media usage in our own, still low tech, corporate and public sectors.

Read Social Media in the Attention Age by S A J Shirazi

Repetition of Mistakes

2010-11-13T13:57:00.000+05:00

Press Conference - Mud Housing Project

2010-11-11T10:18:00.002+05:00

Press Conference about Mud Housing Project / Appropriate Technology at Peerzada Cultural Complex, Lahore (on the occasion of the last day of Asian Conference of Architects in Johar Town, Lahore)

SPARC invites you to Mud Housing Project

2010-10-29T18:55:00.000+05:00

Technical Culture

2010-10-26T13:50:00.000+05:00

Treasury of Inspiration

2010-10-23T13:57:00.002+05:00

Mud Housing Project

2010-10-20T13:48:00.000+05:00

Mud Housing Project, Lahore

2010-10-18T22:19:00.003+05:00

Opening planned on October 26, 2010

Peerzada Cultural Complex, Green Acre, Lahore

in cooperation with

SPARC (NGO), Lahore

(Anees Yaqub, Syed Ghayyoor Obaid, SAJ Shirazi, Aamir Rafique, Naeem Bajwa)

SES, Bonn

and

German Embassy, Islamabad

and

AFA (NGO), Thatta Ghulamka Dhiroka (Farooq Ahmed)

DGFK (NGO), Berlin and IPC (RC)

Participants / Students:

Hamza Bajwa / former NCA – Khurram Syed / presently BNU – Shoaib Anees /former UET

Excursion: Thatta Ghulamka Dhiroka

Lecture: Introduction (MudHousing), Housing in General, LongTime Measurements

Prof. Dr . Norbert Pintsch , M.Arch, MCE, MBA / SES, AFA, SPARC, DGFK, IPC

Thekedar:

Moh. Iqbal, Harappa Museum Complex

Mud Housing Project

2010-10-15T09:01:00.000+05:00

Peersada brothers with Tikedar (contractor) Iqbal from Harappa

Years ago, SPARC had taken up the initiative to refresh the importance of mud as construction material and to sensitize the general public in this respect. Currently, the Mud Housing Project is being implemented by SPARC in Lahore.

Mud is not a construction material of the past; only steel, concrete and bricks have pushed back such useful construction material, (this is a story in itself.) Considering the enormous costs of cooling and heating the current form of buildings, it becomes quite clear that mud is environmentally friendly, energy efficient and biologically far superior than any other construction material.

In order to realize the initiative, SPARC was successful in arranging foreign support as well as a local architect, who is working since the year 2000 in South Western Punjab, and together with DGFK (German Society for the Advancement of Culture, Berlin), it has been giving prizes under the Preservation of Cutural Heritage program for the best maintained Mud House, Brick House and the most interesting Design.

Now in the realization phase of the initiative, it was important to gather financial and organizational support as well as participants open to new ideas, which was made easier through provision of land by the Peerzada Group near their cultural complex. The planned mud rooms are to be used by the handicraft workers as sleeping quarters in the night while they work in Workshops during the day.

Example of appropriate technology (solar cooker) will also be available for demonstration purpose and in order to be independant of the public technical infrastructure.

This combination was also greeted by the universities Punjab University, COMSATS and BNU, who find it useful for involvement of students in practical projects like construction and physical measurements that are part of the Mud Housing Project.

Generally speaking, the Mud Housing Project comes at a time of extreme flooding misery around the River Indus and therefore unintended becomes current in its own right. There are, however no demonstrated examples of the concept, which can contribute to experience and which can be adjusted for example for usage in the crisis regions.

The initiative described above is small, but it has a large potential: Help in the Indus Basin flood hit areas is of course a priority, but the construction methods in the urban areas are to be examined closely in terms of energy consumption. Mud housing is normally ground floor construction, but there are also interesting mud house examples in double story construction. A project of experimental construction is therefore required for a more exact evaluation and experimentation of this and other aspects of mud housing.

Related: Mud Housing Project

Home pests

2010-10-02T08:51:00.003+05:00

Pests of all kinds can attack homes at almost any time of the year. Generally, when temperatures rise, most of the pests perk up. As the weather changes and it becomes warmer, pests’ metabolism increases and they are more active.

All season pests like rats and cecak (wall lizards locally known as chapkalli) scuttle about in dirty places and can track filth in if you do not block their access into your living environment. Rats not only spread disease, but are also a nuisance as they like to chew through doors, window screens, cables on appliances and computers, electric cables in your attic and even cars where the seats become their nest. Cecak are actually quite helpful creatures as they consume mosquitoes, house flies and some other pests that live in homes but most people do not like them scurrying about the walls and ceilings of their home.

People use different types of chemical substances or mixture of substances to destroy, repel and mitigate the house pests. Indiscriminate use of chemical substances can also be an environmental problem or out rightly dangerous for children (remember incidents when kids have been reported to eat up poisonous pills kept for killing house rates (chohe mar golian). Therefore, utmost care has to be exercised while using any chemical substance at home.

And there are other type of ‘pests’ that can not be controlled what to talk of termination. Unwelcome guests and or in-laws can come in home anytime with full clams. What to do when these pests invade your home? Over to you. Tell me?

Tags: Home Pests, Summer, Weather

360º Architecture

2010-09-27T14:14:00.007+05:00

Styliane Philippou, 'The Lizards of Djenné', 26 September 2010

In the epilogue to his remarkable monograph on the Masons of Djenné, a fascinating study of the lives, practices and professional training of the designer-cum-craftsmen responsible for the unique mud-brick or adobe architecture of this Malian town of approximately 12,000 inhabitants, the architect and anthropologist Trevor H. J. Marchand describes the re-plastering of Djenné's Great Mosque, in February 2005.

View of Banani village on the Bandiagara escarpment (Dogon Country), Mali. Photograph by Styliane Philippou, 2004

This annual festival involves the entire community of Djenné in the necessary regular maintenance of its majestic monument, which guarantees the protection of its mud brickwork against sun, rain and wind erosion. An act of devotion and a special festive event, the re-plastering of the building's exterior surfaces and roof normally takes place in March or April, towards the end of the dry season when most building activity takes place, a relatively short period between the end of the winter harvest and the first spring rain falls. The town elders together with the master masons of the barey ton (masons' association) typically determine an auspicious day for the event, just few weeks or days before its actual occurrence. This tradition was discarded in 2005, so that the re-coating of the Great Mosque with a new layer of mud would coincide with the first week-long Djenné festival, a new tourist attraction for this island town on the Bani River.

Read the article here.

Get involved in community service

2010-09-24T08:43:00.000+05:00

Community service is one of the wonderful experiences that helps in more than one ways. Volunteers get a chance to broaden their own vision by sharing are lives and views in cross cultural settings. In addition to cultural fusion, they get practical language practice while traveling to new places and living and working with new people.

Thanks to VISIONS Service Adventures - provider of domestic and international community service programs – which they offer teen summer community service to high school and middle school student who are looking for worthwhile exposure in South America, Central America, the Caribbean, Vietnam and the United States of America. You get a chance to live together, work together, explore and play together, and enjoy our shared experience while you send your quality time in community service. Summer program are planned in off season and includes both construction and non-construction service work.

Have a look at neatly laid out and information rich site and see what all opportunities are available to choose from. Explore their program locations and see which place can offer you the most. Interested students can ask for their brochure or download application form. Also sign up their newsletter and get involved. This will help you make informed decision and to plan your next summer community service experience.

Why Use Mud

2010-09-15T09:10:00.000+05:00

Mud Architecture in Pakistan appeared in the Daily Nation today.

Culture and its future

2010-09-08T08:40:00.000+05:00

The NGO "Cultura", previously called "Tradition und Zukunft Landgut Borsig (LGB)", is part of an international network of Non-Government Organizations with long-standing experience inside and outsid the country.

Use of Handicrafts and "Appropriate Technology", linked with the possibilities of (international)urban lifestyle, i.e. using cordless telephones, internet, etc. and combined with the advantages of the healthier and cheaper rural life-style.

The LGB offers multiple possibilities, among others also through the exhibition of agricultural-historical collection and it thrives on the interest and ideas of its participants.

The emphasis here is on promoting the distinctive character of the products.

Continuously newer exhibitions of art and ethnological rarities alongwith the permanent ones are interesting for locals as well as outsiders. Also the workshop-type events and events organized by the district authorities for the purpose of training and income-generating measures for the local population.

Also the fact that Art workshops, Litho-workshops and special workshops(like Art-forgeings workshops, construction of music instruments, etc.) conducted by professionals are available.

The latter courses are directed towards outsiders, who would like to follow their interests in workshops over several days whereas boarding and lodging is integrated into the offer.

Information in this respect can be obtained by e-Mail directly from the Cultura association!

Do not hesitate to send them your Inquiry! They are currently revising their courses and are ready to arrange accomodation if required.

Development of income-generating measures for rural population based on the promotion of the traditional culture at the same time.

Use of Appropriate Technology, which make independent from the central technical infra-structure.

Integration of communication and information technology through the use of alternative techniques, e.g. photo-voltaic sun energy and solar collectors.

Cooperation with similar projects inside and outside the country.

Processing valuable historical events. Implementation of the idea of an active museum.

Using the collections for generating income for local poulation.

Promotion of handicraft making and other production activities.

Promotion of Offers of traditional local techniques to interested parties.

Integration of local flora and fauna.

Handicraft in the project LANDGUT BORIG

Since about 2005 various womens groups have not only been involved with "Mr. and Mrs. Borsig of 1866" but they have also developed marketable products, for example the dolls made by the functional womens project in Pakistan were fitted with clothes by the womens groups in Germany. From autumn 2007 onwards, some women were trained in the field by Dr. Senta Siller through the PAGA association in Potsdam.

Similarly the first souvenir locomotives made of sheet metal and carrying the name "Borsig" were manufactured at the end of 2007 in the Mens-Centre of the project in Pakistan. This development is also an example of creating a distinctive characteristic within the scope of a project and is supposed to show how important it is not to produce mass-products but actually to reduce the number while maintaining high standard of quality.

Appropriate Technology in the project LANDGUT BORSIG

The emphasis here is on using and implementing de-central techniques for heating purposes in the Landgut Borsig project.

This should lead to similar projects for example for hot-water supply based upon the biomass from the surrounding forests. Perhaps one day even a biogas-unit can be set up for demonstration purposes. The abundance of rain-water need not be wasted but it can be utulized in a better way for supply to residences and compounds.

It appears the there will be an increase in the number of electric-driven vehicles in the future. A demonstration unit can show by using the photo-voltaic technology how batteries can be charged even in multiple storeyed residential communities.

Welcome to Cultura Landgut Borsig NGO Website

Oval Office Redesign

2010-09-02T08:42:00.000+05:00

While President Obama was on vacation, new neutral-colored wallpaper, couches, rugs, and lamps were installed in the Oval Office. Looks crazy, right? No?

Preservation of Cultural Heritage: The Mud Village in Lahore

2010-08-31T08:26:00.000+05:00

The Valley of Mud-Brick Architecture

2010-08-29T20:17:00.000+05:00

The Valley of Mud-Brick Architecture by Salma Samar Damluji is a scholarly book concentrating on the architecture and town planning of two towns in the Hadhramawt, Shibam and Tarim, Yemen. It looks at the very ancient origins of the south Arabian mud built architecture, its suitability for the climate, its adaptability, and its relative virtues compared with imported Western practices and how it can continue to develop as an indigenous Arabian art or science. It is clearly an exciting study to any such as Dr. Damluji, who had worked with and is clearly an admirer of Hassan Fathy, the great exponent of traditional mud brick architecture in Cairo. Read a review.

Korestia Mud Houses

2010-08-24T12:29:00.000+05:00

Dozens of abandoned residences in the Korestia region, Kastoria prefecture of northwestern Greece, retain their impressive orange color, as the houses are remnants of another era when skilled builders erected domiciles using sun-dried bricks, made from the region's red soil, water and hay.

The initial pre-industrial age builders were self-taught and their craft made the region distinct for its architecture. The last house built using this specific technique was completed in 1955.

Today, over 100 such residences are left abandoned and wrecked in the abandoned villages of Gavros, Kranionas and Mavrokampos. {#}

Stone Age to Attention Age

2010-08-14T14:57:00.002+05:00

Who knew the Stoneage would make a roaring comeback? Have a look at this amazing stone house exterior, tucked in a peaceful pastoral setting in Nas Montanhas de Fafe, Portugal. This hillside house boasts unobstructed, untarnished views of the grass-covered mountain and valley. This unusual structure isn’t your typical house, featuring an irregular exterior, but some traditional “house” elements were incorporated – namely, its charming windows and a shingled roof that stands out among these seemingly untouched, natural surroundings.

Mud Architecture Building Materials

2010-08-12T20:10:00.000+05:00

The Earth Architecture website is a great resource that focuses on architecture constructed of mud brick, rammed earth, compressed earth block and other methods of earthen construction. And if you’re able, check out “Lasting Foundations: The Art of Architecture in Africa” which runs through Jan. 13 at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.. You can read a review of the show here. Also take a look at a documentary of about the history and possible future of earth architecture, Future of Mud. More on recyclable and natural building materials here and here. {Thanks to Chris}

About Appropriate Technology

2010-08-11T12:48:00.000+05:00

Let us briefly describe first what appropriate technology (AT) is. It is technology that has been designed with special consideration to the environmental, ethical, cultural, social and economical aspects of the community it is intended for. Typically, it required fewer resources, is easier to maintain, has a lower overall cost and less of an impact on the environment, compared to industrialized practices (from Wikipedia.org). This definition implies the design of experts in research departments, but some people, -mostly in the Third World- can invent, create and contribute to this technological concept much more than experts do. That is because they understand their needs, they deal with them everyday and know exactly how to prioritize them, at least in the small scale at the local level.

Read what Myriam Mahiques writes about Appropriate Technology at her wonderful blog.

Home Sweet Stone-age Home - 10,500 years old is uncovered

2010-08-11T10:32:00.004+05:00

It is cramped, draughty and unlikely to win any design awards. But, according to archaeologists, this wooden hut is one of the most important buildings ever created in Britain.

The newly discovered circular structure – as shown in our artist’s impression – is the country’s oldest known home.

Built more than 6,000 years before Stonehenge, it provided shelter from the icy winds and storms that battered the nomadic hunters roaming Britain at the end of the last ice age.

The remains of the 11ft-wide building, discovered near Scarborough, North Yorkshire, have been dated to at least 8,500BC. It stood next to an ancient lake and close to the remains of a wooden quayside.

Dr Chantal Conneller, from the University of Manchester, said it was between 500 and 1,000 years older than the previous record holder, a building found at Howick, Northumberland.

‘This changes our ideas of the lives of the first settlers to move back into Britain after the end of the last ice age,’ she said. ‘We used to think they moved around a lot and left little evidence.

‘Now we know they built large structures and were very attached to particular places in the landscape.’

None of the wood used to make the building has survived. Instead, archaeologists found the tell-tale signs of 18 timber posts, arranged in a circle. The centre of the structure had been hollowed out and filled with organic material.

The researchers believe the floor was once carpeted with a layer of reeds, moss or grasses and that there may have been a fireplace.

Dr Conneller said the hut was used for at least 200 to 500 years – and may have been abandoned for long stretches.

‘We don’t know much about it and we don’t know what it was used for,’ she said. ‘It might have been a domestic structure, although you could only fit three or four people in it. It could have been a form of ritual structure because there is evidence of ritual activity on the site.’

Previous archaeological digs have unearthed head-dresses made from deer skulls close to the hut, along with remains of flints, the paddle of a boat, antler tools, fish hooks and beads.

The researchers also found a large wooden platform alongside the ancient – and long vanished – lake at Star Carr. It was made from timbers which were split and hewn.

The platform, which may have been a quay, is the earliest evidence of carpentry in Europe. At the time, Britain was connected to the rest of Europe. The occupiers of the hut were nomads who migrated from an area now under the North Sea to hunt deer, wild boar, elk and wild cattle.

Dr Nicky Milner, from the University of York, said: ‘This is a sensational discovery and tells us so much about the people who lived at this time.

‘From this excavation, we gain a vivid picture of how these people lived. For example, it looks like the house may have been rebuilt at various stages.

The ancient Star Carr site is located not far from the Yorkshire town of Scarborough

‘It is also likely there was more than one house and lots of people lived here. And the artefacts of antler, particularly the antler headdresses, are intriguing, as they suggest ritual activities.’

Although Britain had been visited by hunter-gatherers for hundreds of thousands of years, it was only at the end of the last ice age, when the glaciers finally retreated from Scotland, that the country became permanently occupied.

Thousands of miles away, in the ‘Fertile Crescent’ of Mesopotamia, the earliest farmers were learning how to sow seeds and domesticate animals in a discovery that would transform the world – and herald the age of villages, writing and civilisation.

But in northern Europe, the hunter-gatherer way of life that had served prehistoric man for millennia remained unchallenged. Via

Mud Architecture in Afghanistan

2010-08-06T09:39:00.002+05:00

Celebrating Mud

2010-08-05T21:19:00.002+05:00

Youth cover themselves with mud during a festival at Nitzanim beach in southern Israel on April 1, 2010. The three-day festival attracts many young Israelis and includes rock concerts, meditation, yoga sessions and nudist camps. AFP PHOTO/DAVID BUIMOVITCH (Photo credit should read DAVID BUIMOVITCH/AFP/Getty Images)

Heritage and Appropriate Technology Center Cameroon, Bamenda

2010-08-04T20:28:00.003+05:00

Readers at Light Within are familiar with the work of NGOs and how Thatta Kedona (and also SPARC) is making difference in a small village Thatta Ghulamka Dheroka situated on the bank of River Ravi near Gogera. Dr. Senta Siller (mother of dolls) and Dr. Norbert Centre (fondly called by village community as chaudhry sahib) keep toggling between Germany and the remote village with fresh ideas and people of the village keep making new products (dolls, tin toys and other decorative cultural mementos) keep travling from village to the entire world. Now the untiring couple has started another project in Cameroon. Heritage and Appropriate Technology Center is born in Cameroon.

Heritage and Appropriate Technology Center Cameroon is Bamenda - capital of North West Region in the Republic of Cameroon - based NGO. The NGO is focusing on development, presentation on exhibitions and promoting of appropriate technology. Do-it-yourself usage of appropriate technology gives a hope of independence from central technical infrastructure. And handmade dolls, dressed in traditional attires from the different provinces are a means of additional income generation in rural areas. Heritage and Appropriate Technology Center Cameroon involves men, women and also children in different initiatives.

Heritage and Appropriate Technology Center Cameroon has develop active cooperation with foreign NGOs like Technology Transfer and Training Centre in Pakistan, Institute for Planning and Consulting, German Society for the Development of Culture (DGFK) and Bamenda University of Science and Technology (B.U.S.T). This blog, in addition to useful information about Cameroon (one of the most diverse African countries that is called Africa in Miniature and its culture and people, will covers CAT initiatives and projects. [Via]

Earth Architecture

2010-08-03T22:17:00.002+05:00

Investigating the intelligence of the low-tech earth architecture of the Sahara: A feasibility study from the western desert of Egypt

Thatta Kedona FAQs

2010-08-01T13:43:00.002+05:00

Read Thatta Kedona Frequently Asked Questions

The perfect sunshine kitchen

2010-07-29T08:13:00.000+05:00

By Candy Channing

If you've ever rented an apartment, gite, or villa, you'll know that there's something refreshingly novel about having to cook in a kitchen where there is only the bare minimum to play with. Liberated from cupboards of stuff, you begin to realise quite how much of your kitchenalia you could actually do without.

Now, we're not suggesting that you have a wholesale clear-out and start from scratch, but, if you are thinking of a kitchen makeover of sorts, you could do a lot worse than draw inspiration from your last holiday home.

All too often we squirrel things away at the backs of cupboards where there as good as useless. Instead, think about incorporating an open shelving unit into your kitchen where you can attractively display the things you use on a regular basis.

Glassware is a great starting point – especially if it's coloured – practical, attractive and, in the case of this beautiful blue carafe from Zara Home, surprisingly inexpensive.

Wooden storage jars and bowls are a great addition to any kitchen. The natural shades will coordinate with almost any colour scheme and as well as being virtually unbreakable (just remember to oil them and never leave them standing in water), they will only look better with age. Muji's very affordable versions start at just £5.95.

Look for crockery that will pick out the colours you've picked for the glassware, but, especially if it's a beautifully patterned design like this one from Divertimenti, do ensure that it's easy to replace on a piecemeal basis, should the worst happen.

And then, with a beach mat on the floor, a sliced lemon on the chopping board just waiting to be squeezed into a G&T, and a shelf heaving with rock salt, virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, it doesn't take a lot of imagination to transform your everyday kitchen in Kidderminster into a holiday home cuisine from Carcassonne.