Why not build from pre-cast components? Straw bales? Used tires? Plastic bottles?

Homeowners don’t steal from themselves. Put them in charge of reconstructing their home, and they reuse materials.  Often, they contribute their own funds.  And their degree of satisfaction is so much higher than if we give them a house that they don’t trust is safe.  We’re not asking them to use sweat equity and build the house themselves; in that case, we would miss the opportunity to train local builders who will go on to build many houses, and put money back into the local economy.  We’re talking about empowering homeowners to make their own decisions on materials and architecture, and learn the basics of safe construction so they have peace of mind their house is safe.