Zeh, Helgard

Soil Bioengineering, Construction Type, Reference Book, Construction Material, Plants

This illustrated Construction Type Manual in 5 languages compiles 170 construction methods describing techniques which use plants as building materials. This includes preparations necessary before they can be planted and become effective. This is followed by work which allows the plants alone to take over technical, ecological and aesthetic functions. Chapter 7, which is the largest one, contains methods of stabilizing structures by combining living with non-living materials. The sustainability of soil bioengineering measures is safeguarded by maintenance to which a separate chapter is dedicated. The Construction Type Manual serves to foster understanding among experts and to harmonize European norms.