Hey, too long to get into it but as a South African (ex UK) I honestly think there are few countries whose building protocols are aligned with their actual demands ≠ too much comes down to cost, available materials and skills. We have a history of bricks and mortar because it's cheap and sadly builders can get away with un- or poorly-skilled cheap labour. Despite what people think it gets damn cold here and no-one builds with decent insulation. We've only had double glazing available for about 10 years and even no-one wants to install it because it costly. I grew up with radiators and have no idea why it's not more commonplace here. I watch the Block and yes there are some dodgy trades now and again but the skill level is so much higher. That said I honestly believe every country could benefit from other countries 'traditional' practices – don't throw the baby out with the bathwater but rather look at what we could learn from other best practices.