Projects

Berkeley Reafforestation Trust projects have been located in a wide range of  environments. Conditions have varied in terms of climate and terrain as well as in the culture and way of life of the communities involved.

We have worked in areas of high rainfall (Ecuador) and in semi-arid regions (Sudan). With settled farmers (Madagascar) and with pastoralists (Niger). With extensive reforestation programmes (Indian Himalayas) and with fruit tree planting initiatives with individual farmers (coastal India).

Core characteristics of our projects include:

• Emphasis on self-help

  We do not believe in "doing things for people" but in helping people to help themselves. Local commitment and volunteer inputs are pre-conditions to our involvement.

• Sustainability

  Projects must become sustainable longterm without ongoing dependency on outside funding.

• Priority given to indigenous trees

• Limited expatriate involvement

  The aim is to build up local capacity from the start.

• Forestry being part of wider development programmes

  Our projects focus on trees but form part of wider programmes incorporating health, education and agricultural development.