5.2 - Sustainable Livelihood Framework
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Incremental Housing Upgrades
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Let's start discussing the concept of incremental housing upgrades. Can anyone tell me what that means?
It means people are making gradual improvements to their homes instead of completing everything at once.
Exactly! This process allows households to prioritize what they need first. Can anyone share what those priorities might be?
I think people would focus on essential things like doors first, then walls, and finally windows for ventilation.
Great observation! This aligns with what we've seen in practice. To remember the priority order, think of the acronym 'D-W-W'—Doors, Walls, Windows.
So, the initial focus is always on securing the entrance, right?
Right! Securing the entrance is crucial for safety. Summarizing, upgrading shelters incrementally helps communities manage resources effectively. Can anyone think of an added benefit of this strategy?
It allows them to adapt to their needs while being affordable!
Community Engagement in Shelter Improvement
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Next, let’s look at community engagement. Why do you think it’s important for inhabitants to modify their living spaces?
Because they know their needs better than anyone else!
Exactly! This leads to personalized homes and fosters a sense of ownership. Can anyone give an example of how modifications might reflect individual needs?
Someone might need more natural light, so they’d prioritize windows.
Precisely! Remembering this can be linked to the idea of 'house as a home'—it’s about individual needs being central in the living space. Let’s summarize this: how does community engagement improve living conditions?
It empowers individuals and ensures that housing meets their unique needs.
Three Levels of Decision-Making
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Now, let's get into the three levels of decision-making as proposed by John Habraken. Can someone explain what each level entails?
The first is the tissue level which deals with urban fabric, the second is the support level for base buildings, and the third is the infill level where communities make choices.
Correct! To remember, think of 'TSI' for Tissue, Support, Infill. How does engaging at these levels affect housing outcomes?
It allows different stakeholders to contribute, thus creating a comprehensive approach to housing.
Exactly! Each level supports the other, leading to a more sustainable infrastructure. Let’s summarize what we’ve discussed today about how these levels interact.
Resource Contextualization
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Finally, let’s discuss how understanding vulnerability context is essential. What does vulnerability context mean?
It’s the external factors that affect how people can access their resources.
Good explanation! How do these factors influence housing improvements?
They determine how easily communities can get materials, money, and support.
Very true! This goes to show that supportive policies and financing are crucial for sustainable outcomes. Summarizing, what are the key areas to consider to improve resource access?
Finance, land tenure, materials availability, and legal frameworks!
Introduction & Overview
Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.
Quick Overview
Standard
This section discusses the Sustainable Livelihood Framework as a means to understand how communities can enhance their living conditions. It explains how various factors such as economic feasibility and resource accessibility play crucial roles in the improvement of housing. It further highlights the interplay of socio-economic resources in the context of community-driven processes.
Detailed
Detailed Summary of Sustainable Livelihood Framework
The Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF) is acknowledged as a vital approach for understanding how individuals and communities navigate their living conditions, especially after disasters. It focuses on their abilities to access and utilize various types of resources including social, economic, and natural resources. This section outlines that successful housing improvements follow a transitional process characterized by several observed factors:
- Incremental Housing Upgrades: Communities often make rapid upgrades to their shelters using reclaimed materials, initially modifying doors, walls, and windows. Within a month, over half of the households engaged in such upgrades, demonstrating both necessity and agency in housing improvement.
- Community Engagement: Beneficiaries often personalize their spaces and create homes progressively. They buy materials or sell existing resources to fund construction, indicating a shift from viewing shelter as a mere product to understanding housing as a dynamic process influenced by user needs.
- Organizational Support: The framework emphasizes partnerships with governmental and non-governmental agencies that enable communities to engage in shelter projects on a larger scale. For instance, collaboration on projects resulted in thousands of low-cost houses being built successfully, showcasing the effectiveness of collective organizational effort.
- Three Levels of Decision-Making: Concepts from thinkers like John Habraken illustrate the importance of layers within housing development; where individuals interact with the physical layout (infill), development agencies handle the structural requirements (support layer), and municipalities oversee broader regional concerns (tissue).
- Resource Contextualization: Understanding the vulnerability context helps in crafting solutions that cater to their realities. This involves financial access, tenure security, availability of materials, and community governance, all crucial for sustainable housing initiatives.
Through the SLF, the section identifies the potential of empowering communities to create sustainable livelihoods, transitioning from dependency to self-reliance. The framework is not just applicable to the housing sector but is a broader lens through which to examine the complex interplay between human agency, structural constraints, and resource availability.
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Shelter Upgrades and Personalization
Chapter 1 of 13
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Chapter Content
And also, this is a kind of partial upgrade with reclaimed materials they have the developed with the kind of whatever, they have able to procure from the past site or with their feasibilities, they have made some modifications to their shelters. And within a month 53% of the house owners have started to upgrade their shelters and this is very quick, within a month if this kind of change is 53%.
Detailed Explanation
In the first month after receiving assistance, 53% of homeowners made improvements to their shelters. They utilized reclaimed materials and made modifications based on what was feasible for them. The rapid upgrade shows how quickly individuals can respond to their living conditions when support or resources are available.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine a person moving into a new apartment. In just a few weeks, they might replace old lamps, add curtains, and even repaint walls to reflect their style. Similarly, these homeowners are making quick improvements to turn temporary shelters into more comfortable living spaces.
Priorities in Shelter Upgrades
Chapter 2 of 13
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The priorities were first doors, second walls and the third is windows, so the ventilation aspect.
Detailed Explanation
The homeowners prioritized their upgrades, focusing first on installing doors, then walls, and finally windows, highlighting the importance of security, structure, and ventilation. This shows how certain features are essential for immediate comfort and safety before moving on to aesthetic improvements.
Examples & Analogies
Think of building a basic treehouse. First, you would want a strong floor (walls), then a solid door to keep out intruders, and finally, you would add windows for light and air. This prioritization ensures the treehouse is functional and safe before decorating.
Economic Strategies for Upgrades
Chapter 3 of 13
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Some beneficiaries bought their own timber for walls, doors and windows... Others sold a plastic sheeting and hired the local artisans to build adobe walls.
Detailed Explanation
Homeowners employed various economic strategies to afford their upgrades. Some purchased timber to improve their shelters, while others sold plastic sheeting and engaged local artisans for traditional building methods like adobe walls. This illustrates the resourcefulness and adaptability of individuals in managing their livelihoods.
Examples & Analogies
Consider someone who wants to buy a new phone. They might save money from their job, sell an old gadget, or even trade in something valuable they own. Similarly, these homeowners are creatively pooling resources to enhance their living conditions.
Transformative Use of Resources
Chapter 4 of 13
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And some paid for the labour in kind using the tools they were given in the shelter kit and some sold their tools once shelters were complete to buy household furnishings.
Detailed Explanation
Some beneficiaries used the tools provided in the shelter kit to aid in labor for their upgrades. Others opted to sell these tools once their shelters were built to purchase household goods, demonstrating how resources can be transformed into economic opportunities.
Examples & Analogies
Think of it as students using school supplies to assist in projects. After completing, they might sell or trade those supplies to get something else they want, just like homeowners exchanged tools for furnishings.
Scaling Up the Project
Chapter 5 of 13
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So, with this, the government have understood that yes there is a possibility that to scale up this process... they launched the project build about 40,000 low cost houses.
Detailed Explanation
Recognizing the success of initial upgrades, the government decided to scale up the project, aiming to build around 40,000 low-cost houses. This exemplifies how successful small projects can lead to larger initiatives, benefiting more people.
Examples & Analogies
When a local community garden thrives with a few plants, the organizers may decide to expand it to include more plots and invite more people to participate, spreading benefits to a larger community.
Understanding Housing as a Process
Chapter 6 of 13
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But when you talk about the theoretical understanding of it, you know as I said you in the beginning transition shelter is not a noun, it is a verb, it is a process.
Detailed Explanation
The concept of transitional shelter emphasizes that housing isn't just a structure; it's an ongoing process where occupants actively shape their living spaces through their experiences and needs. This view pushes against the idea of static housing, focusing on dynamic living where people continuously improve their environment.
Examples & Analogies
Consider making a home-cooked meal. It's not just about assembling ingredients; it involves ongoing adjustments and creativity to make it delicious. Likewise, creating a home is a continuous process of making it fit the inhabitant's needs.
Value of Use Over Market Value
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So, that is where he talks about the use value derived from this approach was more significant than the market value...
Detailed Explanation
The emphasis on use value means that the benefits housing provides to its users are more crucial than their market value. The focus is on how housing meets human needs and improves living conditions rather than on its financial worth. This perspective acknowledges the significance of housing in enhancing lives.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine receiving a treasured family heirloom that's not worth much financially but holds immense sentimental value. Similarly, what matters in housing is how well it serves the family's needs and enhances their quality of life.
Participatory Decision-Making in Housing
Chapter 8 of 13
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And similarly, John Habraken supports on 3 levels of decision making; one is the tissue and the support which is the base building...
Detailed Explanation
John Habraken outlines three levels of housing decisions: the 'tissue' (urban layout), 'support' (main structure), and 'infill' (personal modifications). Recognizing that these levels adapt over time allows communities to engage in housing development relevant to their specific needs.
Examples & Analogies
Think of building a sandwich: the bread is the structure (support), the ingredients you choose are your personal touches (infill), and the overall presentation and context is like the tissue. Each part plays a role in creating a satisfying meal, just as each level contributes to effective housing.
Adapting to Change in Housing
Chapter 9 of 13
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So, this keeps changing very frequently and the system of subdivision allows users to interface with a level that is relevant to them.
Detailed Explanation
As housing needs evolve, the adaptability of the levels where decisions are made helps ensure that residents can respond to their context. This flexibility leads to housing solutions that are responsive to changes in preferences and circumstances.
Examples & Analogies
Consider a school classroom that allows for flexible seating arrangements. As teaching styles or subjects change, students can rearrange their seating or collaborate in different ways, similar to how housing can adapt to varying needs.
The Layers of Building Construction
Chapter 10 of 13
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Similarly, buildings are also essentially made of 6 time bound layers. This is space time phenomenon which Ian Bentley also talks about it...
Detailed Explanation
Buildings consist of different identifiable layers that reflect time. These layers include the site, structure, surfaces, services, plans, and furnishings. Each layer has a different lifespan and can be upgraded or replaced independently, impacting the overall functionality of the building strategically.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a concert that has an opening act. The main stage setup might endure for years, while different performers and lighting can change daily. Just as each layer can be adjusted without affecting the core, housing can be adapted through its layers.
The Importance of the Sustainable Livelihood Framework
Chapter 11 of 13
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And we have to understand when we are dealing with this kind of poor communities, one has to look at the livelihoods framework, it is not just only a shelter...
Detailed Explanation
In addressing housing needs, the focus must extend beyond merely providing shelter; it should encompass understanding the livelihoods and access to resources of communities. Factors like social, economic, and political resources impact their abilities to create sustainable living conditions.
Examples & Analogies
Consider a community garden program that provides seeds and tools. If gardening resources are also combined with training on sustainable practices and community support, the garden can thrive, enhancing the overall quality of life and sustainability.
Barriers to Housing Provision
Chapter 12 of 13
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The enabling approach, how we can enable this process and one is the finance you know because this is one the enabling approach recognizes the bottleneck to housing created limited access to finance...
Detailed Explanation
Addressing barriers to housing requires understanding financial, regulatory, and material considerations. Limited financing, insecure land tenure, and regulatory challenges can hinder housing initiatives, so creating an enabling environment is crucial to support sustainable housing efforts.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine trying to build a treehouse without nails or tools. Even if you have a fantastic design in mind, lacking essential resources will prevent you from making progress. Similarly, effective housing solutions require the right conditions and support to be successful.
Engaging Communities for Sustainable Housing
Chapter 13 of 13
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Also, the materials and labour because materials have a major cost implications and also inappropriate building regulations can inhabit the production of housing...
Detailed Explanation
Engaging communities involves recognizing the importance of material access, labor resources, and the need for tailored building regulations that accommodate local practices. By including community feedback in policy, housing becomes more effective and meaningful.
Examples & Analogies
Consider a food co-op where community members have a say in products offered and even contribute to labor. This grassroots approach ensures everyone’s needs are addressed, leading to a more successful and fulfilling marketplace.
Key Concepts
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Incremental Housing Upgrades: Housing improvements that are made gradually, focusing first on essential needs.
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Community Engagement: The active participation of community members in modifying their shelters based on personal needs.
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Three Levels of Decision-Making: The interaction between the tissue, support, and infill levels that influences housing quality.
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Vulnerability Context: The external factors that affect communities' access to necessary resources.
Examples & Applications
A community member prioritizes upgrading their door for security before addressing window insulation.
A family uses funds from selling unused materials to hire local craftsmen for building their walls.
Memory Aids
Interactive tools to help you remember key concepts
Rhymes
Increments lead to home sweet home, where needs are met, and comfort grown.
Stories
Picture a family who first secures their door before adding colorful curtains—it's a journey of progress focusing on what matters first.
Memory Tools
Remember 'TSI' for the three levels of decision-making: Tissue, Support, Infill.
Acronyms
For incremental upgrades, think 'D-W-W'—Doors, Walls, Windows.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Incremental Upgrades
Gradual improvements made to housing structures, prioritizing essential changes.
- Sustainable Livelihood Framework
A structure that outlines how individuals and communities utilize various resources for better livelihoods.
- Tissue Level
The urban fabric or infrastructure within a community.
- Support Level
The structural components of housing supported by external agencies.
- Infill Level
Personal modifications made by users within a housing structure.
- Vulnerability Context
External factors that influence a community's ability to access resources.
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