TRADA supports tsunami regeneration

TRADA International is working with Eden Project on a new post-tsunami regeneration initiative, Project Sri-Build.

TRADA International is working with Eden Project on a new post-tsunami regeneration initiative, Project Sri-Build, which will rebuild homes and create new livelihoods in Sri Lanka for some of the thousands of families who lost theirs in the Boxing Day disaster.

TRADA has worked in partnership with the Eden Project for more than three years on a range of worthwhile projects, but nothing has been so significant as Project Sri-Build.

After Indonesia, Sri Lanka was the area worst hit by the disaster.

More than 30,000 people lost their lives and, of more than 500,000 who were displaced by the flooding, nearly half are still in temporary relief camps seven months on.

Eden is working with TRADA and the Sri Lanka-based charity Rainforest Rescue International (RRI) to set up Project Sri-Build.

"This is a reconstruction project with a difference," said Lionel Jayanetti of TRADA International.

"Community involvement is paramount for Project Sri-Build, from deciding on the buildings needed, the materials to use, to acquiring the training and skills necessary for the local people to carry out the processing, manufacturing and building work themselves.

The community will be equipped with all the required tools and facilities, including tile and block making machinery".

The community of Gintota, near Galle in the south of the country, has been chosen for a pilot project to create secure and durable housing for up to 40 families.

TRADA International will contribute all the necessary skills and TRADA members are being approached to help fund the pilot, the cost of which is estimated at GBP150,000.

If the pilot is successful, it is hoped that it will become a model for replication elsewhere, with members of the Gintota community helping to develop training programmes in other affected areas.

To support this project, please send a cheque payable to The Eden Trust No.2 Account and post to: Karen Dawkins, Eden Project, Bodelva, Cornwall PL24 2SG.

Mark clearly on the back that the donation is for Project Sri-Build.

Contributions may also be made online by visiting www.edenstore.co.uk/giftaid.asp and selecting Project Sri-Build.

For further information, telephone Karen Dawkins or Howard Jones at the Eden Project on 01726 818881, or Lionel Jayanetti at TRADA International on 01494 569618.

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