Decoding the societal transitions on environmental innovation under vernacular timber construction practice in Sri lanka

Abstract

In an economy, innovation is well-thought-out as one of the important factors for development, growth and competitiveness of a country. Environmental innovations defined as a modified processes, practices, systems and products profit the environment and contribute to environmental sustainability during its entire lifecycle. Vernacular timber construction practice in Sri Lanka is dealt with environmental innovations. Constructions were made based on the needs of the inhabitants with the available resources in the particular context. Societal transitions are highly complex processes that unfold over time-spans of decades as they overcome challenges in an experienced process. This study aims to conduct a field survey and collect maximum timber samples; to decode and emphasize the worth of the existing information. Heritage timber structures are perfect living samples comprehending a preserved living proof of material utilization survived in a tropical climate. As a preliminary step for an investigation, a microscopic observation was conducted. To further analysis Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy; a chemical microanalysis technique was used in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Survey results and analytical examinations conveyed knowledge which is not yet decoded who had experienced in vernacular timber construction practice. But still there should be useful ideas to be taken from their solutions. Therefore, results discuss the necessity of decoding and scientifically proving the value of the existing vernacular practice in Sri Lanka that leads to another environmental innovation in future that navigate on societal transitions through evidenced knowledge.