The Sustainable Reconstruction of Haiti: A Benefit for Builders Without Borders

- with Berkeley architect Martin Hammer, showing slides and discussing his recent experiences advocating for and helping to implement the sustainable reconstruction of Haiti; preceded by a short presentation by representative from the Haiti Action Committee to provide the political and social context.


Background:
Martin Hammer was a member of reconnaissance teams with the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute in March and the World Monuments Fund in April, assessing buildings in Port-au-Prince and Jacmel.

He is also representing Builders Without Borders in Haiti, working on many facets of sustainable reconstruction, including the revival and improvement of vernacular building traditions, investigating the applicability of strawbale, straw-clay, bamboo, reinforced adobe, and alternative masonry units, as well as efficient cooking technologies and rainwater catchment and alternative wastewater systems. All with an eye towards empowering local populations to build safe, affordable, culturally appropriate shelter, and healthy, sustainable communities, while attempting to reverse decades of environmental degradation.


This is the first in the Solidarity with the People of Haiti Series sponsored by the Ecology Center, People's Grocery, Haiti Action Committee, and PlantingJustice.


Cost: $5 to $50 (sliding scale) at the door, benefiting Builders Without Borders.

Open to the Public

Accessibility:
Public transportation, Buses on San Pablo Ave. and Dwight Way, street parking, wheelchair access.
To request ASL interpretation, contact us at least 10 working days in advance.