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Composting System with Recycled Materials in Alpine Sanitation Facility

Author:
Ah lam Lee
Composting System with Recycled Materials in Alpine Sanitation Facility

Project in-detail

Utilizing a waterless composting system and recycled materials, this alpine facility addresses sanitation needs for the growing number of visitors in the challenging climate of Gorakshep.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design for quick assembly in remote locations.
02
Incorporates a waterless composting toilet for sustainable waste management.
03
Features a filtered catchment system for rainwater and snow collection.
04
Employs recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.
05
Offers energy-efficient solar panels for lighting and sanitation systems.

Endure addresses the challenges facing high-altitude regions, particularly around Mount Everest. The project aims to provide essential facilities for waste management and sanitation as tourist activity increases. It emphasizes sustainability, adaptability, and resilience, striving to balance the needs of visitors with the delicate environment.

Sustainability and Modularity

The design is built on principles of sustainability and modularity. The structure consists of prefabricated components, allowing for quick assembly on-site. This modular approach makes it easier to adapt to various site conditions in the Gorakshep area, where typical construction methods may not be feasible. By using a modular design, the building can better handle changes in climate and visitor numbers, ensuring long-term functionality.

Waste Management System

A significant aspect of Endure is its controlled waste management system, highlighted by a waterless composting toilet. This toilet design minimizes the ecological impact while maintaining hygiene. The compost produced is reused in nearby villages, supporting local soil health for farming. This approach creates a cycle where waste becomes a resource that benefits the community and environment.

Water and Energy Solutions

Endure incorporates effective water management through a filtered catchment system that collects rainwater and melted snow. This system is vital for providing a consistent water supply in such remote and vulnerable areas. Additionally, solar panels are integrated into the design to generate power for lighting and sanitation needs. These energy solutions reduce reliance on outside resources and enhance the building’s self-sufficiency.

Material Choices

The project favors the use of recycled and reused materials, which helps lower the environmental footprint typically associated with construction. This decision reflects a commitment to sustainability and aligns with the project's goals. Using these materials not only supports ecological health but also demonstrates a responsible approach to building in fragile ecosystems.

The design features a sloped roof that aids in water collection, while the layout remains functional and unobtrusive. This simplicity ensures that the building blends with the surrounding alpine landscape, respecting the unique environment in which it stands.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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