October 17, 2010

Rising from the ashes

For my last post about the Ateneo School of Management Business Accelerator (SOMBA) Program, I am featuring a product that is very different from everything else that I've posted this past week. Envirobloxx are concrete masonry units (better known as cinder blocks in the U.S. and hollow blocks here in the Philippines) made of cement, lahar (volcanic ash flow—we still have lots from the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption) and rice hull ash. The result is a cheaper, lighter block that does not compromise on strength. I also like Envirobloxx's interlocking design, which should make wall construction easier. This is a product which I hope construction companies, architects, civil engineers and hardware stores will pick up fast. My husband and I have no need for hollow blocks right now, but you can be sure that I'm keeping their brochure and business card for the day when we do need them.

Envirobloxx

Envirobuilders Construction Supplies Inc. developed and markets Envirobloxx. They can be emailed at envirobuildersinc@gmail.com.


The AY 2010–2011 SOMBA Program has more groups than the seven that I was able to feature. The complete list of companies established this academic year can be found at jgsomba.tk. And to all the students in the program: you have such fantastic ideas and products, and I love that you all care about the environment and the less privileged of our countrymen so much. I wish your companies much success and I hope that all your products fly off the shelves!

9 comments:

Lowell said...

I wonder if these would ever be available in the States? I'm impressed with the interlocking feature, also. A really superb product.

Re your comment on Cedar Key: I've heard on the Pelican grapevine that the birds gather most days in this same place to talk about and laugh at (in their bird language) all the dorky tourists they see wandering about Cedar Key! :-)

Anonymous said...

What great minds must have thought that. Impressed indeed !
Over here nearly all buildings are made of concrete, which is still after six years living here, a challenge for me.

Please have a good Sunday.

daily athens

GreensboroDailyPhoto said...

The blocks are not so attractive but they get the job done and the inter-locking concept is brilliant!

Rob Siemann said...

Recycling, recycling. Great idea to reuse even ashes.

Francisca said...

Very cool series, Hilda, and this inter-locking recycled material block product was great to add. Kudos to the students. I too wish them all much success in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Cezar and Léia said...

Your blog is a delight, bringing so much consciousness to us! Some great ideas over there!
God bless you!
Cezar

Birdman said...

Interesting post, learned a lot today.

George said...

This is another wonderful idea. I would certainly use that type of block if it were available.

Dina said...

Wonderful! Please have them sell the interlocking idea to Israel.