Innovative and locally-led
Build up Nepal’s model uniquely combines low-cost, low-carbon housing and locally-led economic empowerment.
The challenge
Nepal is one of the world’s most disaster prone countries. In the last decade, over a million homes have been destroyed by earthquakes and floods. 2.7 million people are still in urgent need of affordable, safe housing (2021 Census). The country’s traditional reliance on coal-fired bricks for housing is a leading cause of pollution and contributes to 27% of its CO2 emissions from coal combustion, as well as remaining too expensive for poor and low-income families.
Our model
Our model centres on a decentralised micro-enterprise approach. We train and equip communities, particularly youth and women, to establish local construction businesses. These entrepreneurs produce Eco-bricks, build affordable, safe homes in their towns and villages, create inclusive jobs, strengthen local economies, and lead their own climate adaptation.
A disruptive model:
- Affordability – By reducing the cost of safe housing by 25%, we unlock access for families previously excluded from durable construction.
- Scalability – Our model grows organically through our network of community-led enterprises, each spreading knowledge and resilience.
- A challenge to the status quo – We directly challenge the coal-fired brick industry, which is responsible for pollution, emissions and exploitation, by offering a cleaner, cheaper, and sustainable alternative.
Build up Nepal is proving that safer, greener homes do not have to come at a higher cost – climate adaptation can go hand-in-hand with economic empowerment. Our model reimagines construction as a force for climate action, opportunity and a better future for all.
Creating micro-enterprises
Over 28% of Nepal’s population lives in poverty, mostly in rural areas, while 35% of youth are not in employment, education or training (ILO, 2017), forcing many to migrate in search of work.
We support rural entrepreneurs to produce Eco-bricks and build disaster resilient houses. They invest in the machine and we provide training, quality assurance and long-term support. Each micro-enterprise acts as a sustainable economic engine in the community, creating jobs, building homes and driving resilience.
Impact per year
10-20 low-cost houses built
8-12 green jobs created
Up to 190 tonnes of CO2 emissions saved
Listen to Majhigaun's story
Empowering rural communities
The technology is especially effective in poor, rural communities. Families can come together in groups, make their own eco-bricks and build their own homes at low cost.
Safe schools
Build up Nepal works as a construction partner for NGOs and INGOs to build schools, health posts and community buildings in rural areas. See our designs for eco-friendly, earthquake resistant schools at 20% lower cost than fired bricks.
Each classroom we build is a training for local builders and entrepreneurs ensuring a long-term development in the village.
Designs, drawings and details about eco-friendly schools
Inclusive construction
We believe in an inclusive construction sector. Currently half of our entrepreneurs, and 73% of their employees, are from disadvantaged groups. Build up Nepal actively encourages women to become entrepreneurs and masons, with targeted outreach and training.