In the Philippines, an inspiring wave of sustainable housing is taking shape — literally — with walls made from plastic soda bottles. These discarded bottles are packed tightly with mud, sand, or trash to form “eco-bricks,” which are then stacked like traditional bricks and cemented in place to build sturdy, affordable homes. This method not only recycles non-biodegradable waste but also cuts construction costs significantly, offering low-income communities a way to build durable shelters using easily available materials. The bottles provide excellent insulation and resilience against weather, making them ideal for tropical climates. Beyond individual homes, schools and community centers have also been built using these eco-bricks, often by local volunteers. It’s a creative, grassroots solution that addresses both the housing crisis and the mounting problem of plastic waste — proving that what’s thrown away can become the foundation for a better future. #EcoBrickHomes #TrashToShelter #SustainablePhilippines

The indigenous peoples of the Philippines, among which the Agta, Aeta, Ati, Ata and Batak, are collectively referred to as Negritos. They represent the most ancient civilization in the country, going back more than 40,000 years in time. #philippines