Scavenging to Salvage | Toy Factory

University of Moratuwa (UoM), Faculty of Architecture, Department of Architecture, Moratuwa

Project idea

The story of the toy factory proposes a novel design program, "Scavenging to Salvage," that aims to contribute to national economic growth while uplifting underserved communities in Sri Lanka through circular economy strategies. The report highlights the potential of the proposed program to revitalize the Dolekanaththa, Piliyandala suburbs by creating a market for wood-plastic composites (WPCs) and WPC toys using discarded plastic and sawdust materials from the Colombo and Moratuwa districts.

The report highlights the importance of community involvement in the proposed design program, particularly in leveraging the traditional carpentry skills of Moratuwa. The report showcases how the existing abandoned wooden toy factory can be adaptively reused as a Wooden Composite Factory using local carpentry expertise to build the factory. This approach can not only create a unique identity for the factory but also provide job opportunities for the local population and empower them by sharing knowledge and skills.

Project description

The report emphasizes the environmental benefits of the proposed program, with the community-friendly factory operating under the principles of circular economy, minimizing negative environmental impacts, and maximizing economic benefits. The report argues that this could not only salvage the village but also reduce plastic waste and wood usage while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for the local community.

In conclusion, the "Scavenging to Salvage" concept is a practical approach to sustainable development that leverages the skills and knowledge of the local carpenters in Moratuwa, contributes to the national economic growth of Sri Lanka, and uplifts underserved communities. The report recommends that the proposed design program should be implemented in a manner that ensures community participation, creating opportunities for skill-sharing and knowledge transfer that could promote economic, environmental, and social development.

Furthermore, the report highlights the significance of the community-friendly design of the proposed Wooden Composite Factory in promoting local development. The design program emphasizes community integration and participation, not only in the construction process but also in the daily operation of the factory. The report argues that this community-friendly approach can foster a sense of ownership among the local population, leading to the sustainable and inclusive development of the village.

Technical information

The report suggests that this community-friendly approach can also address the challenges posed by Sri Lanka's economic crisis. By creating sustainable livelihood opportunities and promoting circular economy practices, the proposed design program can contribute to the national economic growth of Sri Lanka while creating a positive social and environmental impact. The report recommends that this approach be replicated in other parts of Sri Lanka to promote sustainable development and uplift underserved communities.

In conclusion, the "Scavenging to Salvage" concept is a forward-thinking approach to sustainable development that focuses on community involvement and circular economy strategies. The proposed design program, incorporating local carpentry skills and community-friendly design principles, can create economic, environmental, and social benefits, not just for the Dolekanaththa village but for Sri Lanka as a whole. The report recommends that this program be implemented with community participation, ensuring local empowerment, knowledge transfer, and sustainable development.