Biñan Has Already Turned Volcanic Ash From Taal Volcano Into Bricks

The volcanic activity and ashfall from Taal Volcano have led to forced evacuations, flight cancellations, ruined crops, and more. From citizens handing out free masks to local businesses offering free food and goods, the whole thing has also shown us how resourceful we as people are. 

In fact, along with helping those affected, Biñan City is making use of the ashfall in the best way possible. Instead of just cleaning it up, the Biñan Materials Recovery Facility has collected the volcanic ash in sacks and put it to use by crafting bricks.

According to Biñan City Information Office, the brick produced from the ash will be used for constructing facilities in the city. Mayor Arman Dimaguila explains, "We need to put [the ash] into sacks so that it doesn't end up clogging the canals."

Volcanic ash has plenty of advantages when added to a cement mix. According to New Atlas, it makes the process greener and makes the bricks stronger too. Early Romans added volcanic ash—which consists of rock, minerals, and volcanic glass fragments—to make concrete structures including the Pantheon and the Colosseum.

Check out more photos and a video of the process below.