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CHAPTER V

Building and Site Concept

The main concept of the project proposal is to work with nature, thus the study

aims to incorporate and promote the use of pro-nature solutions and approaches to

architecture such as sustainable, green, productive and organic and synchronizing it to

the convenience and comfort of the users. All of which are set to meet the standard

guidelines and codes of the Philippines related to the following concepts.

5.1 Structural System

Respecting nature, the structural concept of the proposal aims to withstand the

grace of nature’s behavior by converging conventional, innovative and eco-friendly

materials and methods in response to the structural integrity of the proposal against

natural and manmade disturbances.

Ecobricks

An Ecobrick is a plastic bottle stuffed solid with non-biological waste to create a

reusable building block. Ecobricks are used to make modular furniture, garden spaces

and full scale buildings such as schools and houses. Ecobricks are a collaboration

powered technology that provides a zero-cost solid waste solution for individuals,

households, schools and communities. Ecobricks are an exciting way to stop pollution

and to start envisioning a healthier way of living with the environment.

Ecobricks are designed to be an indefinitely reusable, cradle to cradle, building

block. They are made by stuffing non-biodegradeble plastic waste into a plastic drinking

bottle. This enables plastic to be kept out of the environment, and out of the ineffective

industrial recycling system. Once packed solid, ecobricks can be used to build green

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 159



spaces for the community, furniture for the development, and many other practical

applications needed in the building.

With this kind of technology, the surrounding community, the barangays, the town

and even the nearby places would be able to make part in the proposal through donating

this kind of building material. In relation to this, the process of making this material would

help people raise awareness on the importance of caring for nature and would help

eliminate dumping of plastics in the sanitary landfill most specially to the surroundings.

Ecobricks are versatile as it can be used for various purposes and constructed with

various methods like Milstein Modules (Horizontal Lego), Dieleman Modules (Vertical

Lego), Cob Bottle Building Pura Vida Arirlan Constrution Method and other creative ways.

Figure 60 Ecobricks
Source: observers.france24.com
Why make Ecobricks?

 Ecobricks trap and keep poisonous plastics out of the biosphere.

 The process of Ecobricking raises ecological consciousness.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 160



 Ecobricks keep plastic out of the Industrial Recycling System.

 Ecobricks are fundamentally Cradle-to-Cradle: they are a transition to cyclical

systems and thinking.

 Ecobricks empower citizens and communities to go zero-waste

 Ecobricks allow the local repurposing of plastic for practical applications.

 Ecobricks are a low energy solution to plastic

 Ecobricks sequester CO2

 Ecobricks are a low-tech, Open Source solution

 Ecobricking is a viral solution

Board Formed Concrete

“Board-formed

Concrete” is the name for a

process of patterning concrete

that leaves a wood grain

image on the finished face of

the concrete. It is a method of

construction that is being used

more frequently these days


Figure 61 Board Formed Concrete
because concrete is extremely Source: 123RF.com

well-suited as a finished material in modern design, and by imprinting the wood grain on

the surface, it visually softens and warms concrete’s somewhat cooler appearance while

still allowing concrete to express the construction technique.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 161



Tips for Building on a Sloped Terrain

Cut and Fill:

This describes the process

of carving out a level plinth on a

sloping site, in order to build a

home that is essentially designed

for use on a level site. Any soil that

is cut from the bank is reserved in

order for it to be brought back to

make up the levels on the lower

edge. Figure 62 Cut and Fill


Source: www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

Depending on the type of slope you are working with, this can be a more cost

effective solution as you don’t have to cart soil away from site.

Stilts:

Building on stilts is one

way of addressing steeply

sloped sites. This avoids the

need for expensive foundations

and also negates the

requirement for tanking.

The other benefit is that it leaves Figure 63 Stilts


Source: www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk
the ground untouched. It could also be

implemented on multiple levels as shown.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 162



Basements and Retaining Walls:

When creating basements

on sloped terrain, the walls are

often subject to a lot of force from

the surrounding banks of land and

therefore becoming retaining

walls. Structural engineers need

to be involved in the design of

these structures, and detail design


Figure 64 Basement
stage is important to ensure good Source: www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

water proofing.

Another option is stepping the ground by using low level retaining walls, or gabion

walls.

Tire in Slope Protection

Figure 65 Constructing the Trial Scrap Tire Wall


Source: http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.555.7392&rep=rep1&type=pdf

A study from University Putra Malaysia applied Scrap Tires as Earth

Reinforcement for Repair of Tropical Residual Soil Slope would help solve a major

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 163



problem in the project proposal. Their study concluded that scrap car tire retained its high

tensile strength although its service life as car tire had expired. It offered a 99.08%

probability tensile strength greater than 20 kN with its tire thread alone. It is an excellent

construction material especially as reinforcement element of a reinforced earth.

Polypropylene rope was the most suitable attachment system to tie the scrap tires

to form a mat configuration. It offered a superior strength that was compatible with the

scrap tire; it was flexible, and inexpensive. Polymer material is also known to be resistant

to chemical, biological attack and free from corrosion.

The performance of scrap tire retaining wall was surprisingly well despite having

to use ‘unsuitable’ in-situ cohesive tropical residual soil fill. It achieved Rankine’s active

state with minimal vertical settlement.

The significant advantage

of the propose scrap tire reinforced

earth system would be the reduced

cost of materials and construction.

Both scrap tires and backfill soils

were recycled material. Besides,

the construction of the system was

relatively simple, it did not require

skilled workers and heavy Figure 66 The Complete Structure


Source: citeseerx.ist.psu.edu
machineries.

Synthetic Nipa Thatched Roof

Building a synthetic nipa is much simpler and faster than building a traditional one.

The first requires minimum training, if any, while the second calls for skilled craftsmanship.

Synthetic Nipa roofing is also maintenance-free, easier to repair and more cost-effective,

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 164



especially in the long

run. Artificial palms

being considerably

lighter than natural

thatch, less timber is

generally needed for

the supporting

structure. However,

both types are


Figure 67 Synthetic Nipa Thatched Roof
appreciated for their Source: https://palmexphilippines.com/

versatility and flexibility as they imply no restrictions of roof dimensions or shapes. Both

natural and artificial Nipa also have excellent phonic and thermal insulating and regulating

characteristics but a natural nipa roof requires steeper pitches, regular skilled

maintenance and will not last very long if not both skillfully laid and maintained.

Palmex roof products are designed to outperform in several ways:

 They are resistant to fading, mold, decay, rot, vermin and pests.

 They are 100 % recyclable, non-toxic, sustainable and manufactured in

accordance with ISO 9001-2008 standards.

 They are tested for resistance to rain, snow, sun and very strong winds.

 Palmex roofing material can be taken down and reinstalled.

 Palmex roofs for considerable savings in ventilation and cooling.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 165



5.2 Electrical System

People’s activities nowadays heavily rely on electricity. As a response to this, the

proposal will utilize efficient technologies that would help minimize the consumption of

energy without compromising the comfort of the users.

The location of the site possesses a natural attribute of hot springs which would

minimize the expenses in heating water most especially during cold seasons. Energy

Saving Lighting system will be used in the development. The project will also implement

the use of Solar Panels.

Natural Lighting

To support the visual demands of the users, natural lighting will be mainly

encouraged in the planning and design process of the proposal for daytime illumination.

There are a lot of benefits in using natural lighting as it creates a visually and thermally

comfortable place connected to the outdoors and it maximizes electric lighting energy

savings. A simple solution that shouldn’t be ignored.

Solar Window Films

Windows are the soul of a building, and today’s architectural designs have evolved

to reflect this, using more and more glass. While this satisfies a true human desire for

natural light, it also has a downside: less protection from solar heat, glare, and harmful UV

rays. Solar window films allows to maintain the beautiful benefits of windows without

making sacrifices. By filtering much of the solar spectrum, window film technology

contributes to overall productivity, satisfaction and happiness. Plus, films are less

expensive than window replacement and won’t darken rooms or hide desirable views.

What Solar Window Film Can Do for the Building?

 Reflect Heat – summertime heat stays outside, increasing comfort and decreasing

complaints from building tenants.

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 Help Reduce Fading – Help protect the condition of valuable artwork and textile

furnishings such as upholstery, carpets and draperies.

 Help Save Energy – Solar-heat blocking and insulating properties stabilize

temperatures, so heating and cooling systems use less energy.

 Help Reduce Glare – Reducing harsh glare means a more screen-friendly

environment that supports productivity and eye comfort.

 Block UV Rays – People can’t see UV rays but feel their effects on skin and

furnishings. Solar films offer significant UV protection, as much as 99%

 Increase Interior Comfort – Enjoy any room in the building, any time of the day with

the help of solar film’s enhanced indoor climate control.

5.3 Plumbing System

Plumbing is the system of pipe and other apparatus for conveying water, liquid

wastes, etc., as in a building (Dictionary.com). Developments similar to ORGANIQUE

consume large amount of water. There is this fact that people can survive without

electricity but not without water. The proposal values water by conserving it through

technologies that would provide efficient delivery and conservation.

Polypropylene Pipes

NELTEX PPR is a water service system that was developed in collaboration with

industry professionals to meet the needs of designers, developers, installers, and end

users; they’re tested against the highest international standards. Neltex PPR pipes and

fittings are also duly tested and certified by the premiere science and technology body in

the country—the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Neltex PPR are also

certified heavy-metal free (free from Lead, Mercury and Cadmium), making it the safest

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 167



for you and for the environment. This type of pipe will be employed in most parts of the

plumbing system in the development.

Atomizing Showerhead

The Nebia is claimed to reduce

shower water use by 70%, while also

being 13 times more thermally efficient.

In a nutshell, the Nebia

atomizes the water into tiny droplets

that have "10 times more surface area"

than the water drops from a Figure 68 Atomizing Showerhead


Source: www.treehugger.com
conventional showerhead, allowing

users to get just as clean ("more water comes into contact with your body" than with a

traditional model") while also warming the air around them more efficiently. It's described

as delivering a "warm and cozy mist" that not only cleans your body, but also provides a

"significantly superior shower experience" overall. The Nebia showerhead is said to use

just .75 gallons per minute (gpm), which is less than the 2 gpm from Environmental

Protecting Agency (EPA) Water Sense-rated fixtures,

This technology of showerhead could be an excellent investment for institutions

and business like the proposal as it will use a lot of water for its showering facilities,

allowing to conserve water while saving money.

Dual Flush Toilets

A dual flush toilet is a high efficiency toilet (HET) that conserves water by offering

a choice of two different toilet flush volumes – a low volume flush for liquids and a full

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 168



volume flush for solids. Dual flush commode will ensure less use of water when flushing

the toilet.

The Altered: Nozzle

Similar to the concept of the Nebia

showerhead, the Altered: Nozzle effectively

optimizes the use of the water flowing out of the

faucet instead of letting it just flood out over and

past the task at hand, whether it's washing your

hands or rinsing vegetables or doing the dishes.

This faucet accessory takes that it reduces the

water use by up to 98%.


Figure 69 The Altered: Nozzle
The Altered:Nozzle, described as "the Source: https://technabob.com

world’s most extreme water saving nozzle," attaches to any standard faucet and has two

settings, the Mist mode, which is rated at 0.18 liters (.047 gallons) of water per minute,

and the Super Saver mode, which is rated at 1.8 liter (.32 gallons) per minute. This dual

mode allows for extremely frugal water use when doing water-intensive tasks (Mist mode),

while also letting you switch over to a higher flow rate for other tasks (and yet reducing

water flow by up to 85%).

5.4 Sanitary System

The site will put beneficial landscape like lemon grass and marigold to repel

unwanted insects. Water in the pool will be changed as needed and no chemicals will be

mixed in the pool water, The Drained water will go directly to the Water Collecting pond

and will be used for the development like for watering the landscape and flushing of toilets.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 169



Phytoremediation

Phytoremediation is the direct use of living green plants for in situ, or in place, removal,

degradation, or containment of contaminants in soils, sludge, sediments, surface water

and groundwater. Phytoremediation is:

 A low cost, solar energy driven cleanup technique.

 Most useful at sites with shallow, low levels of contamination.

 Useful for treating a wide variety of environmental contaminants.

 Effective with, or in some cases, in place of mechanical cleanup methods.

5.5 Mechanical System

Natural Ventilation

Similar to the Natural Lighting, natural ventilation is an energy efficient technology

to be applied in most spaces of the proposal. Natural wind ventilation is the most common,

easiest and least expensive form of passive cooling and ventilation. Building orientation,

sizing and placing of openings are factors to maximize good wind ventilation. Jalousie

windows is seen to be used in most parts of the development for it is more controllable

with regards to wind and can be kept open whenever there is rain.

Air Conditioning Unit

Split air conditioner will be used for some rooms. This type of air conditioner

system has quiet performance. The parts of an air conditioner that make the noise are the

compressor and the fan that cools the condenser which are located outside the room,

therefore the major sources of noise are removed – unlike with window units.

Another benefit of a split air conditioner system is that it can be opt for a multi-split

system, where you can have more than one indoor unit connected to a single outdoor unit.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 170



This makes it easy to cool multiple rooms or maintain the temperature throughout a large

room through the use of two indoor cooling units.

A split air conditioner is an efficient and cost-effective way to cool rooms. It should

be noted that the initial cost of this kind of air conditioning unit is significantly higher than

a window unit and it does require professional installation. However, the amount of money

one will save on their energy bills as well as the longevity of the unit will be worth it in the

end.

5.6 Fire Protection System

Fire Sprinkler System

The concept from a group of students from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute about

their “smart” fire suppression system could be applied in the proposal. Their system

pinpoints the location of a fire in a building and douses the blaze with flame suppressants.

In their statement, sensors sweep a room and when fire is sensed, suppressant will only

be delivered to that specific area and still the sensor would still scan the room to see if the

fire spread. The new fire detection and suppression system is hardwired with a battery

backup so it can function even if the building's electricity is shut off or unavailable. This

concept of fire suppression system would be beneficial for it will reduce water consumption

and minimize the damages in places where there was no immediate threat from fire.

5.7 Security System

The planning and designing will also take part in this system without compromising

the privacy of the spaces and its users. Aside from it, the security system of the proposal

would be aided by various technologies like the CCTV, LED Motion Sensor Light and the

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 171



personnel, most especially the security department for they will be equipped with handheld

radio transceiver.

Closed-Circuit TV (CCTV)

This is one of the advances of security technologies that will be applied in the

proposal. CCTV will be utilized for safety reasons in public places, as well as other places

where monitoring of people’s activities are important.

LED Motion Sensor Light

The main objective of utilizing this kind of light is for security because it may deter

suspicious activities that may have been unnoticed.

5.8 Communication and Electronic System

Communication at present generation has been way easier. There are various

instruments for electronically aided communication like telephones, computers, and

cellphones. The project would maximize its use through the assistance of computer

programs and application to monitor the operation of the business for inventory,

reservations, security and records. Telephones would be placed to rooms for guests for

convenient delivery of messages to both party.

The use of internet would help transactions with future and returning guest. Being

connected to social networking sites to communicate to netizens would help promote and

advertise the development.

Since internet has been on the daily routine of almost every person, ORGANIQUE

would only designate Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) areas to temporarily move away the guests

to the harmful effects of over usage of gadgets. In addition personal interaction is highly

encouraged in the proposal.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 172



5.9 Environmental System

Most of the systems aforementioned are chosen because of its environmental

impact. To further support the concept of the proposal of working with nature, the

researcher also root for other eco-friendly materials for the building as well as the

materials/ utensils and operations in the proposal.

Eco Friendly Materials/ Instruments/ Utensils

Bamboo Toothbrush

The environmental toothbrush can

be disposed of safely by returning it to

earth in compost or landfill. Both the

bamboo and bristles will biodegrade into

soil without pollution.

Figure 70 Bamboo Toothbrush


Source: www.toothbrushmovement.com

Coconut Shell Spoon and Fork and Native Crafts

An organic approach to utensils, Coconut shell spoon and forks and other native

products will be used in the restaurant.

Figure 71 Native Crafts


Source: missmnativecrafts.com

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 173



Zero-Plastic Grocery

The proposal have an Organique market wherein its operation would not be using

plastics for packaging, customers are encouraged to bring containers for their bought

product. For some goods, Eco-friendly packing would be used like the banana leaf.

Low Volatile Paints

Using low-VOC paint helps to reduce allergy-causing toxins. Low-VOC paints help

to reduce the concentration of contaminants in the ozone layer as well as in groundwater

and landfills. Low-VOC paints can also be more easily cleaned up using soap and water.

5.10 Waste Management System

As much as possible the proposal aims to minimize its waste. Waste can be used

or reused in different ways for it to be more ecological.

Compost

Composting will be implemented in the proposal because it is one of the easiest

and effective way of handling waste. The compost produced will serve as an organic

fertilizer and soil amendment, helping establish the main title of the proposal

“ORGANIQUE”.

Greywater Recycling

Developments like this requires a lot of water for its operation. The good thing

about the site is that it offers natural hot springs which is one of the attractions in the

municipality that will be applied in the proposal. The pools to be offered in the development

would be Chlorine free. The water in the pool would be changed regularly as far as its

condition is good for operation. The water discharged will then be stored and reused for

flushing toilets, for watering landscapes and other non-potable purposes.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 174



5.11 Landscaping System

The goal of the landscapes for the proposal are not only for beautification but also

has to be functional and therapeutic.

Pervious Pavements

Permeable pavement is a pavement type with a porous surface that is composed

of concrete, open pore pavers or asphalt with an underlying stone reservoir. Also

considered as green pavement because it allows water to run through it rather than

accumulate on it or run off of it. The precipitation and water get stored in the reservoir from

where it slowly infiltrates the soil below or is drained via a drain tile. The stone or gravel

acts as a natural filter and clears the water from pollutants.

Edible Garden

Most of the landscapes to be planned in the development is organic and edible, an

idea that would maximize space. Aside from making the surrounding refreshing and

relaxing, it will also generate income.

Healing Garden

The term healing gardens are most often applied to green spaces in hospitals and

other healthcare facilities that specifically aim to improve health outcome. These gardens

provide a place of refuge and promote healing in patients, families, and staff. Any

environment can promote healing, but gardens are particularly able to do so because

humans are hard-wired to find nature engrossing and soothing.

According to two leaders in this field, Clare Cooper Marcus and Marni Barnes, healing

comes because the gardens promote:

1. Relief from symptoms

2. Stress reduction

3. Improvement in overall sense of wellbeing and hopefulness

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 175



Rain Garden

Figure 72 Rain Garden


Source: blogs.evergreen.edu

A rain garden is a planted depression or a hole that allows

rainwater runoff from impervious urban areas, like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking

lots, and compacted lawn areas, the opportunity to be absorbed. This reduces rain runoff

by allowing storm water to soak into the ground (as opposed to flowing into storm

drains and surface waters which causes erosion, water pollution, flooding, and

diminished groundwater). They should be designed for specific soils and climates. The

purpose of a rain garden is to improve water quality in nearby bodies of water and to

ensure that rainwater becomes available for plants as groundwater rather than being sent

through storm water drains straight out to sea. Rain gardens can cut down on the amount

of pollution reaching creeks and streams by up to 30%.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 176



Reflexology Path walk

Benefits of walking the reflexology path

Self-healthcare

By stepping out of the confines of

shoes and varying the walking surface

underfoot, one can apply pressure to

various reflex areas, which target

specific health problems or general

health concerns such as tension

reduction or circulation problems.

Chinese medical experts view tap shek,

“stone stepping” as it is called in China,


Figure 73 Reflexology Path walk
as a means to restore normal blood Source: https://i.pinimg.com/
pressure and lower cholesterol as well as to alleviate chronic pain and treat common

diseases.

Fitness

The Chinese government encourages use of tap shek fitness as a form of overall

fitness on par with moderate exercise. It has been shown to increase flexibility and

response capability, help in the treatment of osteoporosis, relieve back pain and enhance

cardiovascular function, according to Chinese magazine and newspaper articles.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 177



Healthy aging

For individuals of all ages, walking the reflexology path offers an opportunity for

healthy aging. In Asian cultures, aging is seen as beginning with the feet. By providing the

benefits of fitness as noted above, reflexology path walking helps mitigate risk factors that

lead to unhealthy aging and disease later in life.

Relieving tired feet

For the foot sore individual, taking a break on a reflexology path can be a godsend.

The first thing one may notice about path walking is an impact on the feet themselves —

relief for tired feet and reduced foot problems.

Improving posture and balance

As noted above, walking the reflexology path contributes to the foot’s and body’s

capabilities including better balance, enhanced awareness and strengthened muscles.

Encouraging children’s growth and development

For growing children sensory stimulation of the foot encourages development both

physically and mentally. Children’s reflexology paths are found in parks in Korea and

schoolchildren in Germany make their own paths by gathering sticks, stones and other

elements and arranging them in low-walled boxes.

Uplifting your mood

In study after study, people tell stories of the positive effect walking the reflexology

path has on their mood. From China to Japan to the US participants in studies and those

who walk the reflexology path report “a general feeling of energy, improved mood, and

clear thinking” as well as exhilaration, refreshed minds, relaxation and stress reduction.

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 178



Enlivened senses

Just as travel broadens one’s experience, exposure to different surfaces broadens

the foot’s experience—resulting in a foot that is less stressed and more capable of working

well.

5.12 Agricultural System

Garden Tower

Recently named the “Worlds Most Advanced Container Garden”, the Garden

Tower 2 features food grade USA-made HDPE (non-toxic, BPA & PVC free plastic)

components, FDA-approved dye and UV-protection antioxidant package for health,

durability and recyclability.

 The rotating Garden Tower 2 is a composter that grows 50 plants in 4 square feet

nearly anywhere.

 Turns waste kitchen scraps to organic fertilizer to grow organic produce.

 The Garden Tower replicates a natural ecosystem allowing plants to access

nutrients recycled through organic composting processes.

 Easily grow nearly any vegetables, herbs or flowers organically.

 An organic and resilient 6 cubic foot vertical soil-based alternative to expensive

and difficult hydroponic systems.

 Designed using 100% UV stable food-grade high purity HDPE plastic, and backed

by a 5-year manufacturer warranty.

 43″ tall & 24.5″ wide. 36 lbs. (~200 lbs. with wet soil)

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 179



The Garden Tower is a revolutionary vertical self-contained garden / composting

system that redefines home gardening, urban gardening and vermicomposting. Utilizing 6

cu.ft. of potting soil, the Garden Tower allows for the abundant growth of 50 plants

vertically in a minimal footprint and eliminates weeding, electricity, nutrient loss and most

water loss associated with conventional gardening.

Figure 74 Garden Tower


Source: https://gardentowerproject.com

Aquaponics

The simplest definition of Aquaponics is the combination of aquaculture (raising

fish) and hydroponics (the soil-less growing of plants) that grows fish and plants together

in one integrated system. The fish waste provides an organic food source for the plants,

and the plants naturally filter the water for the fish.

The third participants are microbes (nitrifying bacteria). These bacteria convert

ammonia from the fish waste first into nitrites, and then into nitrates. Nitrates are the form

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 180



of nitrogen that plants can uptake and use to grow. Solid fish waste is turned into

vermicompost that also acts as food for the plants.

 In combining both hydroponic and aquaculture systems, aquaponics capitalizes on

their benefits, and eliminates the drawbacks of each.

 Waist-high aquaponic gardening eliminates weeds, back strain, and small animal

access to your garden.

 Aquaponics relies on the recycling of nutrient-rich water continuously. In

aquaponics there is no toxic run-off from either hydroponics or aquaculture.

 Aquaponics uses only 1/10th of the water of soil-based gardening, and even less

water than hydroponics or recirculating aquaculture.

 No harmful petro chemicals, pesticides or herbicides can be used. It’s a natural

eco system!

 Gardening chores are cut down dramatically or eliminated. The aquaponics grower

will be able to focus on the enjoyable tasks of feeding the fish and tending to and

harvesting the plants.

 Aquaponic systems can be put anywhere, use them outside, in a greenhouse, in

basement, or in living room! By using grow-lighting, and space can become a

productive garden.

 Aquaponic systems are scaleable! They can fit most sizes and budgets, from

small countertop herb systems, to backyard gardens, to full scale farms,

aquaponics can do it all!

 One get to harvest both plants and fish from your garden.

Instead of using dirt or toxic chemical solutions to grow plants, aquaponics uses highly

nutritious fish effluent that contains all the required nutrients for optimum plant growth.

Instead of discharging water, aquaponics uses the plants, naturally occurring bacteria,

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 181



and the media in which they grow in to clean and purify the water, after which it is returned

to the fish tank. This water can be reused indefinitely and will only need to be topped-

off when it is lost through transpiration from the plants and evaporation.

Figure 75 Aquaponics Cycle


Source: https://www.theaquaponicsource.com

Figure 76 Aquaponics
Source: http://kanat.jsc.vsc.edu/student/grzyb/Img-
AquaponicsDiagram.jpg

Chapter 5 | Building and Site Concept 182

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