Willow Technologies, a material research and building technology practice, has been recognized as part of ArchDaily’s 2023 Best New Practices for its transformative work utilizing agricultural by-products to create sustainable building materials.
Founded by Ghanaian-Filipino designer and architectural scientist Mae-Ling Lokko, the company is exploring the potential of bio-based materials, particularly agro-waste, for construction purposes in developing regions of West Africa.
Through comprehensive research and collaboration with local farmers, Willow Technologies has identified and cataloged the material character of various crops, such as coconuts, moringa, and rice, along with their by-products and potential applications in the construction industry. The company’s innovative approach has successfully implemented rice plants and coconut pith as core components in a bioswale project in Accra’s Efua Sutherland Park, effectively addressing flooding issues in the area.
Willow Technologies believes bio-based materials can be crucial in sustainable building practices, reducing carbon emissions throughout a building’s life cycle. With a focus on environmental impact and design excellence, Willow Technologies is paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future for Ghana’s building materials sector.
