Today’s Solutions: February 15, 2025

Refugee camps consist of poorly built temporary shelters, but often these camps end up existing a lot longer than what was originally intended. In fact, one refugee camp in Kenya has been in operation since 1992 and has more than 185,000 residents. 

This is why Cutwork, a Paris-based design company, has created the Cortex shelter, a house which can be constructed without heavy machinery and consists of rollable concrete which can be shipped flat and then draped over a metal frame. When water is added, the structure has secure walls and textile insulation which offers a comfortable interior.

The unit features a dry toilet and cooking space as well and is powered by solar panels. The whole house can be assembled for $4,000, which the company believes is more affordable and sustainable than frequently replacing tents. 

The company hopes to market the structures in partnership with the UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, to create safe, durable homes for those fleeing conflict. Most importantly, the structures can be permanent features of growing communities and propagate a better sense of belonging and growth. 

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

This Canadian didn’t want to fly from Germany to Canada—so he took a cargo ship

When Will Vibert’s European work visa was closing in on its expiration date, the Canadian was reluctant to travel back to Vancouver via plane. ...

Read More

The psychological reason we’re so taken with Wordle

If you use any kind of social media platform, you may notice the sudden appearance of gray, green, and yellow boxes in grids cluttering ...

Read More

Hunger stones, dino tracks, and lost cities; discoveries exposed by drought

The severe droughts that are plaguing many parts of the world are altering life as we know it. Even though the climate crisis and ...

Read More

3 healthy habits to boost your immunity this cold and flu season

A mild headache that just won't go away, a box of tissues by the bed, and sleeping uncomfortably with your mouth wide open... It's ...

Read More