economy
‘It fails under testing, but it’s what we have’: ban forces Palestinians to make their own cement from rubble
With Israel blocking imports of building materials, those rebuilding in Gaza are recycling ruins to make new homes
TL;DR
- Israel's ban on cement imports since October 2023 has led to the improvised production of cement from Gaza's rubble.
- The process involves sifting and grinding dust from bombed factories, marble plants, and concrete debris.
- The health risks associated with the toxic dust are severe for workers.
- The substitute cement is significantly more expensive than pre-war cement and fails under testing, making it unsuitable for structural use.
- Despite limitations, it's being used for temporary finishing and basic construction to provide shelter.
- Reconstruction efforts are heavily delayed due to bans on 'dual-use' items.
- The estimated need for temporary finishing materials far exceeds current production levels.