In a cooperative demonstration project between the US Department of Energy, the U. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Navajo Nation, current home designs on the Navajo reservation were evaluated and recommendations were made to improve quality and lower the costs. The resulting design utilized straw-bale wall construction. 8,000-word illustrated booklet, online. Peasants in India, and elsewhere, often use cattle dung for fuel. Agricultural scientist Sir Albert Howard, the man who first developed scientific composting, was looking for a way for the peasants to extend the small amount of manure left over for use as fertilizer.
Compost extends manure by four times, and is much more effective than pure manure.
It meant the peasants could have it both ways. This is a technical manual written to provide information for professionals. Alternative design details to meet all situations and climates. Detailed information, diagrams and photographs, in-depth design considerations. Essential guide for anyone serious about building with adobe.