Eco-construction in French Guiana: a day dedicated to sustainable materials at the University of French Guiana

A day to discover eco-construction in French Guiana

On Friday 5 June from 3pm to 7pm, the University of French Guiana is organising a day devoted entirely to eco-construction in French Guiana and eco-materials. This event, which is free and open to all, will take place in the hall of the M building, Research building, on the Troubiran campus in Cayenne.

The aim is to raise public awareness of sustainable construction solutions adapted to the realities of French Guiana. Researchers, architects, associations and companies will be on hand to share their knowledge and innovations.

Eco-materials adapted to the Amazon region

Visitors will be able to discover a number of materials used in eco-construction projects in French Guiana. These include raw bricks, wood and other innovative materials currently being studied by researchers.

Mycelium and forestry debris will be among the solutions presented during this scientific day. The aim of this research is to develop materials that are more respectful of the environment, while making the most of the local resources available in French Guiana.

The stands set up on the campus will enable visitors to talk directly to the researchers and doctoral students involved in these projects. Visitors will be able to gain a better understanding of the environmental and economic issues involved in sustainable construction.

A guided tour of the INSPE building

The programme also includes a guided tour of the INSPE building. This tour will give you a practical insight into the rules of sustainable construction as applied to a modern building.

Participants will be able to understand how architectural choices and the materials used contribute to improving the environmental performance of buildings while responding to the climatic constraints of French Guiana.

A conference on traditional Guyanese habitats

A conference will be devoted to traditional Creole, Amerindian and Bushinengé habitats. This talk will shed historical and cultural light on local know-how relating to housing.

The organisers want to show that certain ancient practices can still inspire modern eco-construction projects in French Guiana. Traditional techniques offer a number of advantages when it comes to adapting to the tropical climate.

The AIBSI project at the heart of this scientific day

This event is part of the AIBSI project, the Amazon Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainable Innovation. This structuring programme supports research, innovation and the development of resources in the Amazon region.

In particular, the institute is supporting research into the development of eco-construction in French Guiana and the creation of new sustainable materials. This day is therefore an opportunity to highlight the scientific advances being made locally.

Visitors will also be able to find out more about the aims of the AIBSI project and how it is working with the various players in the region.

Workshops for children and families

The day is also aimed at younger children, with a number of educational workshops. A painting workshop will allow children to create with natural pigments.

There will also be an experimental workshop where visitors can make a mud brick using a building press. This activity will provide a fun, hands-on approach to the techniques used in eco-construction.

At the same time, a conference dedicated to the recycling of forestry residues will round off the programme for a day packed with discoveries and learning.

This one-day event dedicated to eco-construction in French Guiana will give the public the chance to discover sustainable solutions adapted to the Amazon region. With conferences, workshops and demonstrations, the event will showcase local innovations and traditional know-how. Visitors interested in sustainable housing, ecological materials and environmental issues will be able to talk directly to researchers and professionals at the University of French Guiana on 5 June in Cayenne.