As you know Haiti is experiencing an ecological distress that reaches a catastrophic proportion. The major problem is “DEFORESTATION”. Charcoal constitutes 85% of energy use in Haiti. Peasants who have no other work to do are cutting down trees to make charcoal for sale. Deforestation, poor farming techniques and no soil conservation practices are responsible for another environmental disaster: “EROSION”. Haiti Verte Foundation is promoting tree-planting and developing alternatives systems for cooking (Solar Stove Project).
Improper disposal of wastewater is also a concern. Latrines are major sources of contamination of groundwater and diseases. It is a dangerous practice of disposing wastewater in open pits along public streets. We are working on the “Improved Septic Tanks Project” which consists of designing and constructing of septic tanks for people living in sensitive areas.
As Frère Enel Clérismé taught us the rescue of Haiti has to be a grassroots movement. We welcome your questions, ideas and suggestions. Please do not hesitate to send us your comments. Thank you.