DMCI Homes Turns Recycled Waste Into Concrete Hollow Blocks for Non-Structural Applications

Read how DMCI Homes is building sustainably by turning recycled paper into concrete hollow blocks for non-structural applications.

At first glance, they look like ordinary concrete blocks. But behind the hollow blocks used in new DMCI Homes condominiums today lies a story of creativity, innovation, and care for the planet. 

 

Since April 2024, DMCI Homes has been quietly transforming shredded office papers into eco-friendly concrete hollow blocks (CHBs) used for non-structural purposes, particularly for internal and external partition walls. 

 

According to Engr. Raymond Bergonio, DMCI Homes Concrete Services (DHCS) Manager, the initiative began as a simple experiment at the company’s CHB batching plant, which originally acquired a shredding machine to process excess PVC pipes. 

 

But curiosity sparked a bigger idea: what if these discarded materials could be given a second life? 

 

Soon, the team discovered that shredded office paper waste from DMCI Homes’ head office in Makati City could be blended into the CHB mix. 

Since April 2024, over 168,000 kilograms of paper waste have been repurposed into eco-friendly building materials now used in DMCI Homes projects.

The shredded paper combined with cement, water, and manufactured sand produces CHBs that retain strength comparable to regular hollow blocks. Studies have also shown that recycled CHBs also create tiny air pockets within the blocks, enhancing their thermal insulation properties. 

 

Quality and Performance Tested 

 

Each batch of CHBs undergoes rigorous testing and refinement using a compression machine to ensure strength and quality—part of DMCI Homes’ comprehensive quality management process. 

 

Before delivery, a third-party concrete and materials testing laboratory also conducts testing, and the results are attached to each batch to verify that quality standards are consistently met. 

 

Since the initiative started, more than 168,000 kilograms of paper waste have already been repurposed into building materials now used in ongoing projects such as Alder Residences and Mulberry Place in Acacia Estates, Taguig; The Oriana and The Erin Heights in Quezon City; and The Camden Place in Manila. 

 

“We are currently producing between 7,000 and 10,000 hollow blocks daily, reaching up to 15,000 pieces in full operation,” Bergonio said. 

 

The team is now exploring future applications such as lightweight CHBs for non-load-bearing partitions and insulated walls. 

 

“This initiative helps us significantly reduce paper waste while promoting eco-friendly construction materials,” Bergonio shared. “It’s a small but meaningful contribution to our sustainability journey.” 

Recycled CHBs are considered as regular hollow blocks and used in internal and external partition walls.

Building a Greener Future 

 

With this initiative, DMCI Homes remains at the forefront of sustainable development, integrating eco-friendly solutions across its projects. 

 

Its signature Lumiventt® Technology allows natural light and air to flow freely through high-rise condominiums, enhancing comfort while reducing energy use.  

 

DMCI Homes also introduced the first condominium with a full water reuse system in The Erin Heights along Commonwealth Avenue corner Tandang Sora Avenue in Quezon City.  

 

Meanwhile, the company’s RideShare Carpool service, the first and only multi-point carpooling mobile app-based shuttle services in the Philippines, helps ease traffic congestion and minimize fuel consumption and emissions. 

 

Together, these initiatives reflect DMCI Homes’ vision of building homes that care for people and the planet alike. 

 

DMCI Homes is the Philippines’ first Quadruple A real estate developer known for building quality resort-inspired communities in Mega Manila, Baguio, Boracay and Davao City. The company’s portfolio boasts more than 70 properties since it was launched in 1999.   

  

To learn more about DMCI Homes’ pre-selling and ready-for-occupancy projects, units for lease, and special promos, call (632) 5324-8888. You can also visit leasing.dmcihomes.com to know more about opportunities in leasing and rent-to-own programs of DMCI Homes. News and other updates are also posted on the company’s official website and its social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.