Desertification Buffer—A New Desert System
Global warming and sand migration are changing living conditions and the surface of the land itself. This phenomenon, called desertification, is mostly caused by humans due to firewood collection, excessive grazing of livestock, and overcultivation. Desertification has resulted in the aridification of once-fertile lands in various regions, including Israel. The shifting aridity line in Israel affects soil fertility and the regional climate, leading to poor harvesting and living. To mitigate desertification, sustainable land management practices are essential. This project explores the climate approach in architecture, where buildings are designed and constructed to suit specific climatic conditions. It emphasizes the importance of using local materials and innovative construction techniques based on traditional approaches. Desert architecture, which considers the unique challenges of arid regions, can play a crucial role in addressing desertification.
Several strategies have been proposed, including the use of microbial-induced CaCO3 precipitation (MICP) to stabilize local soil and improve soil fertility. The project implements the MICP method in the desert region of Israel to rehabilitate the land through sustainable construction practices. By combining artificial infiltration of water into soil, sustainable building design, and the use of local soil, the project aims to mitigate desertification and restore the region’s environmental balance. The settlement area proposes various typologies of buildings adapted to the desert conditions, utilizing topography and environmentally friendly construction methods. Through a holistic and systemic approach, the project intends to address desertification while promoting sustainable living conditions in the region.
