Colombia - reconstruction programme

During our first visit to Colombia in January, Ecotechsy took stock of the extent of the damage done by the devastating floods since December 2010. Extensive flooding and landslides have caused large-scale destruction to agriculture and habitation. Humanitarian work had just begun and the enormous task of reconstruction lay ahead. Now that the floods have subsided, Ecotechsy is returning to the reconstruction projects planned for late last year. Although the rainy season is once again approaching, the Colombian government has done considerable work to reinforce many areas that are prone to flooding. It is in these regions that our reconstruction programme will take place. See how you can help.


The reconstruction programme unifies the following:

• Reconstruction of destroyed or badly-damaged houses.
• Reconstruction of a school to maintain education and adequate nutritional levels in children.
• Transmission of our knowledge and know-how in Swiss eco-technologies.
• In-situ training for the local population.
• Sustainable development and employment generation.

Context: The Colombian government mandated Ecotechsy to evaluate and identify the environmental risks (flooding, natural catastrophes) in order to begin reconstruction in the least-exposed zones and to establish an ecological community to help rehabilitate the most vulnerable populations. 280 villages were selected as the beneficiaries of the project.

Upon our return to Switzerland, the Ecotechsy team set to work on a number of reconstruction options. A project was elaborated regrouping all of Ecotechsy's specialist services. Integrated into our approach were Ecotechsy's values: transmission of our know-how in Swiss eco-technology, employment creation and ecological reconstruction methods in disaster areas.

Other significant causes of disaster are linked to pollution. For this reason we emphasise clean construction methods to preserve nature for future generations. Our first priority is to reconstruct a school to provide a framework for children; this will ensure the continuity of their schooling and provide nutritional support for those most affected by hunger. We will also create a dispensary to deliver essential care in the best conditions possible.