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Zhawa: Multispecies Regenerative Architecture: Towards Sustainable Coexistence in the Buffer Zone of Chingaza Paramo in Colombia

Part 2 Project 2024
Sebastian Galindo
Pontifical Xavierian University | Colombia
Zhawa is a holistic architectural project aimed at preserving the natural resources and ecosystem services of the Chingaza páramo by promoting sustainable living in its buffer zone. Located in the rural zone of Choachí, Cundinamarca, this initiative focuses on expanding the páramo by regenerating a deforested buffer zone. The project proposes the installation of water capture towers, high-biodiversity gardens, and seed banks. These elements, combined with innovative and eco-productive architecture centered on housing, production, and regeneration volunteer programs, aim to bridge the gap between the natural páramo and constructed areas. Zhawa envisions a sustainable and harmonious coexistence between endemic species and humans in this space, which is neither entirely natural nor fully urbanized.

Its harmonious approach ensures a low-impact and minimally invasive intervention that preserves the páramo and its buffer zone. The project seeks to maximize ecological, economic, and social benefits, such as soil preservation, páramo coverage, water capture, and biodiversity protection. By integrating innovative, effective, and sustainable techniques based on both ancient and modern systems, Zhawa aims to minimize the impact on the páramo while maximizing the production of food and products to ensure economic and food sustainability for future inhabitants of the buffer zone.


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2024
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