Next Meeting Saturday May 19, 3:00 PM

Dr. James Lee
Director of the Mandala Projects
American University School of International Service
Hosted by the United States Botanic Garden

"Mandala" is a Sanskrit word for "circle" or "completion" and is often associated with the wheel of life. The Mandala Project at American University is a broad effort to use new technologies and new research approaches to critical contemporary issues. It brings together many different aspects that make up the human experience: international trade, environmental issues, conflict, and culture.

The Trade and Environment Database (TED), initiated in September 1992, is a collection of categorical case studies initially focused on environmental issues related to specific trade products and the economic consequences of social policy choices, such as culture and human rights, associated with these trade products. TED Cases are organized into clusters of information with extensive search and knowledge capabilities. There are over 700 TED cases studies, many on plants and plant-based products.

Follow these links to read a few recent case studies:
Neem: http://www.american.edu/TED/neemtree.htm
Guarana: http://www.american.edu/ted/guarana.htm#r3
Rooibus Tea: http://www.american.edu/ted/riobas.htm
Cat's Claw: http://www.american.edu/ted/cats-claw.htm

To access the TED Homepage: http://www.american.edu/TED/ted.htm

The U.S. Botanic Garden (USBG) is located on the National Mall at the base of the U.S. Capitol Building. The meeting will be held in the USBG Conservatory classroom (on the left side of the main entrance). Parking in front of the conservatory is free on weekends. Federal Center SW is the nearest Metro station.

Please RSVP by e-mail to jamie_s_whitacre@yahoo.com