Aarde Foundation

Promotes sustainability and conserves natural resources, fosters architectural dialogue, and empowers communities

  • Bronze Certified 2023
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About

  • Headquarters

    Chennai, Tamil Nadu

  • Since

    2007

The AARDE(Art & Architecture Research, Development and Education) Foundation, a non-profit organisation in the field of architecture and design, is co Read moremmitted to shaping a future that is socially responsible and environmentally sustainable. The organisation operates on two key fronts. In rural areas, it actively promotes and conserves the Pulicat Lagoon, the second-largest brackish water lagoon in South Asia. In urban environments, the Foundation facilitates discussions within the architecture community and the public through workshops, architecture film festivals, and lectures. The overarching vision involves uplifting the underprivileged by creating job opportunities, identifying and cultivating tourist-related possibilities, establishing forums for urban planning discussions, promoting healthcare, supporting educational and vocational empowerment, engaging in research-based activities, and undertaking environmental management, town planning, and heritage conservation efforts. The Foundation's mission is implemented through diverse initiatives, including the training and sale of Palm-Leaf Craft, workshops, architecture film festivals, as well as the provision of consultancy and research services.

Demographies Served

Programs

  • Revival of Cotton Route

    District

    The cotton trade played a crucial role in shaping global capitalism, particularly through the renowned cotton route. The Coromandel coast, notably Tamilagam, was a significant producer of high-quality cotton, attracting European powers. However, contemporary challenges for farmers in Tamil Nadu and Coastal Andhra Pradesh stem from the transition to foreign cotton seeds post-independence. AARDE aims to address this issue by reviving indigenous cotton production, creating sustainable farming practices, supporting weavers, and leveraging E-Commerce for market outreach, thus positively impacting the Coromandel Coast's cultural and economic landscape.

  • Renovation of Historical Building

    Pulicat, situated 19 km from the nearest town Ponneri, holds a historical gem—the General Health-Care building, constructed by the Dutch in the 1640s. Despite its historical significance, the building has suffered damage and faces the threat of demolition. AARDE, has intervened, urging the Collector to halt the demolition. Renovating this landmark would not only meet the health care centre's current demands but also serve as a unique tourist attraction, preserving Pulicat's maritime heritage. Additionally, the renewed facility will address the healthcare needs of women, including a maternity ward, fostering a positive attitude towards heritage protection among the villagers and contributing to AARDE's vision of enhancing community healthcare while safeguarding Pulicat's historic legacy.

  • Grassroots Campaign

    Inhabitants and visitors alike experience the essence of Pulicat through the primary initiative. Comprehensive awareness campaigns foster local support, utilizing activities such as camps, quizzes, and workshops to unite the community with its heritage. The Pulicat Museum serves as a pivotal component, enhancing efforts on the ground. Together, these initiatives aim to create a meaningful connection between the people and the rich cultural legacy of Pulicat, contributing to the overall appreciation and preservation of this historical site.

  • Sustainable Development through Cultural Heritage

    Various activities are conducted to promote and raise awareness about the wetlands of the Coromandel coast. The holistic approach to Sustainable Development through Cultural Heritage is implemented at three levels: grassroots, policy-makers, and international. National-level awareness campaigns are organised to draw attention from the Government. As a partner of the United Nations Habitat under the World Urban Campaign, the issues related to Pulicat Lagoon are presented on the international forum, emphasizing the importance of this unique ecosystem and its preservation.

Leadership Team

  • Xavier Benedict

    Founder & Trustee

  • Antony Sophia Fernando

    General Manager

  • S Fathima

    Treasurer

M&E

  • Internal, External Assessors

    No

Policies

  • Ethics and Transparency Policies

    No

  • Formal CEO Oversight & Compensation Policy

    No

Political & Religious Declarations

  • On Affiliation if any

    No

  • On Deployment Bias if any

    No

Registration Details

  • PAN Card

    AACTA6620Q

  • Registration ID

    1243-5/2007

  • VO ID / Darpan ID

    TN/2018/0197185

  • FCRA

    Not Available

  • CSR Registration Number

    Not Available

Location

  • Headquarters

    35/18 Pushpa Nagar Main Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai, 600034

    Directions

Other Details

  • Type & Sub Type

    Non-profit
    Trust