[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution.
Understanding Earth Building Challenges
The biggest challenge for those who build with earth is determining whether the available type of earth is suitable for use as a building material. Unlike other construction materials such as steel or cement, earth cannot be standardised. Therefore, it relies entirely on the knowledge and experience of the builder or manufacturer of earth-based materials to differentiate between the right and wrong types of earth.
What often happens is that people venture into this industry assuming that all earth is the same, or that they only need to analyse the clay, sand, and silt content of the earth. When they get it wrong, the building can be compromised. For example, bricks may dissolve or structural cracks may occur, which not only damages the building but also undermines trust in earthen architectural techniques among communities.
To address this problem, a group of Brazilian manufacturers of modular compressed earth bricks came together in 2020 to establish the organisation.
> Institute Ecoterm aim is to raise awareness and share knowledge about good practices in sustainable construction using earth and/or waste as construction materials.
- The Institute intends to create a platform and certification system using blockchain technology on a global scale.
- The purpose is to guarantee the authenticity and credibility of sustainable construction practices, with a specific focus on earthen building, and to encourage acknowledgment and acceptance of these practices worldwide.
Earth Natives NFT: Empowering Through Education
In November 2021, we launched the Earth Natives NFT project, an educational initiative by the Institute Ecoterm. This collection of 3,333 minerals serves as an open-source, peer-reviewed mineral library residing on the Cardano blockchain. Each mineral includes essential details: (1) name, (2) image, (3) Mohs scale (hardness), and (4) scientific formula.
With the proceeds from the NFT sale, we were able to relocate a family from their extremely poor and unsafe living conditions. We demolished their old house and constructed a new one using compressed earth interlocking bricks. We documented the entire process and shared it with the community to showcase the positive impact. As part of our promotion efforts, we prominently featured the Cardano logo on uniforms, banners, and social media platforms.
Innovative Governance with IE Tokens
Our next milestone was the creation of IE (Institute Ecoterm) tokens. We minted 33,000,000 tokens on the Cardano blockchain to serve as governance tokens. The purpose is to empower actively engaged members. As part of our tokenomics strategy, we distribute tokens to those who participate in general meetings and cast their votes. Each token represents one vote, and the more an associate engages with our organization, the more tokens they receive, enhancing their influence within the Institute. It's important to note that creating a wallet on the Cardano blockchain is mandatory to apply for membership. You can access the constitution document in English through the following link: www.ecoterm.org/constitution
- We take pride in being the first Brazilian organisation to incorporate tokens into our constitution, setting a precedent for the industry and showcasing our commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability.
> Our current focus is on developing a website with front-end and back-end functionalities that will serve as the members portal (accessible only via NFT and token).
- IE Tokens
Policy ID: 98dc34951aed76e97babf4f3f982db83ade2fd23c3950fef9ad125b4
- Earth Natives NFTs
Policy ID: eebf7f0deadaf8bbf24f032012f46311a0c77da84ad9ceb624e52d48
Members Portal: Enhancing Engagement
Our members portal will be a secure online platform in one section of our website that provides exclusive access and resources to registered members of our organisation. It will be our central hub where members can log in to access personalised content, communicate with other members, participate in discussions, access member-only resources or benefits, update their profile information, and engage in various activities related to the organisation. The members portal aims to enhance member experience, foster community engagement, and provide a convenient and dedicated space for members to connect and interact with each other and the organisation.
The website will include the following features:
• Member profiles will include commercial contact details, a brief portfolio, and a contact link. This setup allows us to track the leads generated for each member.
• Library: Section with articles, studies, guides, and other publications related to sustainable construction.
• Resources and Publications: Links to external resources, including relevant scientific and technological research, downloadable educational and informational materials.
• Meeting room with video call access.
• Voting system based on the token policy ID: 98dc34951aed76e97babf4f3f982db83ade2fd23c3950fef9ad125b4.
> With the funds from Project Catalyst, we will be able to implement this portal and cover the costs associated with lawyers and government fees. Once this infrastructure is in place, we can commence offering the certification process internationally, further expanding the Cardano ecosystem and attracting a broader audience.
[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community.
The primary building technology promoted by Institute Ecoterm is the interlocking brick, resembling and functioning like LEGO. People are fascinated to witness this new building technology addressing the global issue of affordable housing. We recently conducted a workshop in Gabon, Africa, where our team taught how to produce and build with these interlocking bricks (as shown in the image beneath). Cardano blockchain is consistently promoted, evident on specially designed t-shirts for events.
> We believe our project aligns with the global agenda for sustainable solutions, serving as a showcase for blockchain utility. While already utilising some blockchain features, we plan to implement more in the coming years, establishing a strong partnership with Cardano for mutual benefit.
Our proposed solution directly tackles the challenge of establishing quality standards in sustainable construction. Utilising the Cardano blockchain ensures a transparent and immutable certification process, instilling trust and credibility in the industry.
> This approach will attract more sustainable construction projects to the Cardano ecosystem, promoting environmental sustainability and the adoption of blockchain technology.
We will measure and share the outcomes with the community, tracking the increase in members joining our organisation and the leads generated by the platform. Our showcase project has been featured in numerous articles and news, and we anticipate continued recognition as we strengthen the case for connecting blockchain technology to sustainable construction, providing solutions for affordable housing.
[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?
We have a highly capable team with expertise in sustainable construction and project management. We will rely on partnerships with members of the Cardano community in regards to blockchain technology. Peter Bui is a Cardano Ambassador, Stake Pool Operator, and Content Creator responsible for designing and implementing the platform. You can access his LinkedIn profile using the link below: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterbui1/>
> Our team members have a proven track record of successful project delivery, and we are committed to upholding the highest levels of trust and accountability throughout the implementation of our certification system.
In the link below, you can access Thiago Martoni’s LinkedIn profile. Thiago is the President of Institute Ecoterm and will be the Project Manager of the implementation of this Project Catalyst proposal.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thiago-martoni-a8608720/
Our approach is validated by a proven track record in delivering similar solutions, evident in both the web2 and web3 spaces. A notable project involved the successful creation and sale of 3333 NFTs for the community, generating profits used to build and donate a house. Additionally, we collaborated with Clay Nation to organize and execute ECOCAMP, during which we constructed a life-size character made of earth (clay) under the guidance of Clay Nation's artist, Joe (as shown in the image beneath). Furthermore, we conducted a workshop in Africa, teaching the manufacturing and construction techniques using compressed earth bricks.
[Project Milestones] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?
Complete government paperwork and obtain necessary approvals.
Deliverable: Successful completion of all required government paperwork.
Output: Approved government documentation.
Intended Outcome: Legally recognised and compliant organisation.
>Begin development of the membership platform and website.
Deliverable: Commencement of development activities for the membership platform and website.
Output: Initial design & mockups delivered in Figma and initial functionality of the platform including CardanoPress integration for wallet connect & login along with NFT gated content areas.
Intended Outcome: Creation of a secure and user-friendly membership platform.
>Launch the member portal and ensure its functionality.
Deliverable: Fully functional member portal on the website.
Output: Operational member portal. Users will be able to log into the website to access NFT gated resources, and participate in on-chain governance on the website using their member based assets and voting power.
Intended Outcome: Seamless access for members, fostering engagement and participation.
>We will provide the final completion project along with a video milestone outlining the process and achievements. The ongoing social media marketing campaign will persist, promoting the Institute's platform and showcasing Cardano blockchain and Project Catalyst.
[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?
Thiago Martoni
President at Institute Ecoterm
Project Manager: Responsible for overall project coordination and management
<https://www.linkedin.com/in/thiago-martoni-a8608720/>
https://twitter.com/Earth_Natives
Shirla Amaral
Treasurer of Institute Ecoterm
Financial Officer: Manages project budget and financial accountability
<https://tijolosecofaber.com.br/>
Rosangela Franchi
Attorney at FR7
Legal Consultant: Skilled lawyer overseeing legal proceedings
<https://www.linkedin.com/in/ros%C3%A2ngela-franchi/>
Peter Bui
Co-founder PB Web Development
Web Developer: Responsible for website development and member portal implementation
<https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterbui1/>
<https://x.com/astroboysoup?s=20>
Razali Samsudin
Co-Author of Recalibrating Value, Identity and Impact Through the Blockchain - Cardano Impact Report 2023
Community Advisor: Providing guidance, support, or advice to our community.
<https://www.linkedin.com/in/razali-samsudin/>
<https://x.com/Razlosophy?s=20>
Katianne Regina de Oliveira
Civil Engineer
Ethics Officer: Responsible for overseeing ethical conduct within our organisation.
<https://www.linkedin.com/in/katianne-oliveira-853b161aa/>
[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources.
1) Government paperwork and compliance
- Complete government paperwork and obtain necessary approvals.
Cost: BRL$9,500.00 - ₳4,750
2) Lawyer fees
- Hourly rate for drafting bylaws and contracts.
Cost: BRL$1,449.50 - ₳750
3) Video Production and Marketing:
• Short Presentation of the Institute and its Goals
• Showcase of Using Cardano Blockchain in Brazil and Africa
• Social media marketing campaign
Cost: BRL$6,975.00 - ₳3,487
4) Website:
4.I) Members Portal added to www.ecoterm.org:
• CardanoPress Integration
• Library Section with Articles & Guides
• Resources & Publications with External Links
• Access to Educational & Informational Materials
• Meeting Room Integration (e.g., Zoom)
Cost: AUD$9,200.00 - ₳15,333
4.II) Events & News Section:
- Latest Events and Updates that can be posted by the members
- Different Views, Including a Calendar for Registration and Email Updates
Cost: AUD$4,500.00 - ₳7,500
4.III) Governance Voting System:
- Integration of Online Voting and Governance Solution for Projects by Policy ID
Cost: AUD$1,800.00 - ₳3,000
4.IV) Hosting:
- 1 Year of Premium CardanoPress Managed Hosting
- Website Updates and Maintenance
Cost: AUD$708.00 - ₳1,180
5) Partnerships:
- Strategic Community Advice and Partnerships
Cost: ₳1,000
Total Cost: ₳37,000
*Note: Budget estimated in ADA based on the price as of December 4th, 2023.
[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?
The project's cost signifies its efficiency in establishing a transparent and reliable certification system for sustainable construction using earth, which aligns with Cardano's vision of promoting sustainability and blockchain adoption.
> The funds will be utilised efficiently to cover essential expenses and ensure the successful implementation of a membership platform that leverages blockchain technology, providing long-term benefits to the Cardano community.
<https://youtu.be/7c7FxfOGa6s?si=WUB6PVCQgoSaR91h><https://youtu.be/Fi6Z0lwhrB0?si=K-oul4cK1qi0UBWt>
This photo was taken when we handed over the keys to an Ecological Earth Home which was built and donated by Earth Natives using Cardano Blockchain. We have been promoting Cardano tirelessly across all of the Institute’s social medias, which includes LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter. We have some highly successful posts, for example this one below, that even Charles Hoskinson quote retweeted. This particular post has 108,000 views and 1,560 likes. You can check the video out here:
https://twitter.com/IOHK_Charles/status/1528376519352954882?s=20
Here are some extra links about our project. Please consider these links as proof of our engagement with the Cardano community:
Collaboration with Clay Nation
https://twitter.com/claymates/status/1606633065715011585?s=20
Sustainable Ada:
https://sustainableada.com/news/part-1-institute-ecoterm-modular-and-earth-natives/
CNFT World
<https://cnftworld.io/earth-natives-real-life-utility/>
Cardano Journal
<https://medium.com/cardano-journal/cardano-nft-column-007-earth-natives-2f30265da7b9>
Climate Neutral Cardana - CNC Ala
https://climateneutralcardano.org/cnc-ala-ispo/
Cardano Army by Traveler Jo
https://www.cardanoarmy.io/post/anything-is-possible-here
Ada Pulse
https://adapulse.io/earth-natives-building-cardano-building-the-future/
