Assessing the sustainability index of different post-disaster temporary housing unit configuration types

Abstract

Temporary housing units (THUs), as a solution for accommodating displaced population (DP) in the aftermath of disasters, are critical in terms of the three main sustainability pillars: economic, environmental, and social. Furthermore, the need for these units could grow due to the currently increasing social vulnerability and climate-related hazards. Thus, to enhance the sustainability performance of THUs, which incorporate the most negative aspects of the building industry, is required. One of the THUs less-studied features, which could have considerable impacts on the main pillars of sustainability, is unit configuration types. Therefore, this study presents a novel model that enables decision-makers to select the most suitable THUs configuration types based on the characteristics and requirements each case has. This model combines several methods for the first time, learning from these methods numerous former uncombined applications. This model assesses THUs sustainability using the Integrated Value Model for Sustainability Assessment (MIVES) combined with DesignBuilder®, a simplified life-cycle assessment (LCA), interviews and sensibility analyses.1 This project applies this model for the first time to assess different THUs suggested for Bam's earthquake recovery program. This application has validated the model demonstrating that semi-detached units perform as the most suitable configuration types alternatives for Bam's THUs. This is especially the case of two-story types, although several social issues should be improved in future DP housing. Furthermore, after this pioneering research paper in the subfield of THU configuration types, future projects should enlarge upon its findings to move towards better THUs for the future.