Sustainable eco-house for low-income earners in Dhofar region: A Review

Abstract

The recent drop in oil prices has led several countries with an oil-dependent economy to consider new sustainable policies and attitudes. One of the strategies is the potential ability of the Smart-Eco home to provide a quick and effective solution to support the current national policy of promoting more sustainable practices. Efficient houses built in a way that respects resources and that last long in quality systems are said to be the way forward to achieving a low carbon footprint and a sustainable environment. These houses are constructed from high-performance, energy-saving materials with an energy-maximizing building orientation. Considering government policies are mainly geared towards constructing houses, if sustainable, they would not only be affordable for a few populations but also for the low-income earners. Therefore, this review aims to expound on the importance of eco-housing in achieving sustainable housing for society. The paper aims to draw the attention of the government, experts, decision makers, and educational institutions to integrate the smart eco-house into their efforts towards efficient energy performance buildings, supporting the national economy, the energy infrastructure, and part of the country’s environmentally sustainable policies.