TREES

In Vietnam, schools are turning to a humble, homegrown solution to combat rooftop heat: coconut husk tiles. These lightweight, breathable panels are crafted from compressed husk fibers — an agricultural byproduct in coconut-rich regions — and laid across school rooftops to form a natural insulating layer.

The results are both measurable and meaningful. Studies show that classrooms beneath these roofs stay up to 6°C cooler during peak midday heat, reducing the need for fans or mechanical cooling. The husk fibers trap air within their fibrous texture, creating a buffer zone that blocks radiant heat while still allowing for some ventilation.

Beyond temperature control, the coconut husk tiles offer durability, water resistance, and biodegradability. They’re also far cheaper and more sustainable than synthetic insulation materials, making them ideal for rural or underfunded schools. Maintenance is minimal, and replacement panels can be made locally, supporting circular economies.

Vietnam’s use of this natural waste product as a building solution is a powerful model of climate-smart design. It shows how traditional materials, when reimagined, can offer future-facing benefits — especially in regions grappling with rising temperatures and limited infrastructure budgets.

🌿 We’re Hiring! Community Liaison / Local Mobilizer 🌿
Are you passionate about working with communities and ensuring inclusive participation? Join our project on Gender Equality, Livelihoods, and Climate Resilience in Godavari Municipality as a Community Liaison / Local Mobilizer.
📌 Project: Mainstreaming GESI & Sustainable Livelihood Approaches (SLA) for Urban Climate Resilience
📍 Location: Godavari Municipality, Lalitpur District
📅 Duration: December 2025 – February 2026 (short-term, part-time, field-based)
🔑 Responsibilities
✅ Mobilize women, Dalits, Janajatis, migrants, and informal workers for surveys, FGDs, and PGIS sessions.
✅ Coordinate with ward offices, cooperatives, and local groups.
✅ Facilitate communication and logistics for meetings/workshops.
✅ Support inclusivity, documentation, and local language interpretation when needed.
🎓 Qualifications
• Minimum 10+2, Bachelor’s in Sociology, Rural Development, or related field preferred.
• Familiarity with Godavari Municipality communities.
• Experience in community mobilization or facilitation.
• Good communication in Nepali; local languages (Newari/Tamang) strongly preferred.
💰 Remuneration: Daily allowance + transport costs (as per project budget).
👉 To Apply: Send your CV and a short motivation note to:
📧 [email protected]
⏳ Deadline: October 10, 2025
Be part of building an inclusive, climate-resilient future with local voices at the center! 🌱✨