Use of low carbon and low cost (LC2) materials in climate change adaptation measures

Material recycling of waste tires, which reduces the release of greenhouse gases, for protecting coastal structures from potential natural hazards is proposed here. A new technique using waste tires behind sea walls to protect them from the damage due to impact force of tsunami is described. Cultivation of suitable plants inside the tires was proposed and field tests on planting trees that can grow in saline soil conditions were performed to see whether tire structures can preserve the greenery of the area. A physical model for tsunami impact force simulation was also developed to evaluate the reduction effect of tsunami impact force by the tire structures. Results of this research, if implemented, is not only expected to contribute towards economic countermeasures against natural hazards, but also will go a long way towards providing a sustainable solution for infrastructure development in the future.