Ecovillage Findhorn

This village has been looking into sustainable living since 1962.

"We have erected 45 ecological buildings to date and there are ongoing plans for the continued construction of a built environment which is ecologically respectful.The Ecovillage Project has developed a unique construction system, environmentally sound and energy efficient. Using natural and non-toxic materials we have developed a breathing wall structure, which allows the fabric of a building to interact beneficially with people to moderate humidity and air quality. We have also experimented with straw bale construction, the Earthship system using recycled car tyres, and remain open to further new and innovative ecological solutions for the built environment."
Ecological details featured in our buildings include:

• Use of passive solar features where possible through orientation and window layout.
• Use of solar panels for domestic hot water heating.
• A district heating system using a gas condensing boiler for highest fuel efficiency.
• Super efficient insulation (U-values of 0.2 watts/m2 C in roof, walls and floors).
• Low-energy light bulbs throughout.
• Triple glazing (U=1.65 watts/m2 C).
• Cellulose insulation (made from recycled paper).
• Non-toxic organic paints and wood preservatives throughout.
• Boarding manufactured without the use of toxic glues or resins.
• Locally grown and harvested timber from managed forests.
• Local stone for skirting, patios and pathways.
• Roofing with natural clay tiles.
• Innovative 'breathing wall' construction allowing a controlled exchange of air & vapour, and eliminating the need for a conventional vapour barrier.
• Suspended timber floors for underfloor air circulation to avoid any possible build-up of radon gas.
• Isolating electrical circuits to reduce electromagnetic field stress.
• Water conservation (showers, low-flush toilets and self-closing taps).
  
• Collection and recycling of rainwater for garden use.
• Shared facilities (laundry, kitchens, lounges) avoiding unnecessary duplication.
• Simple timber frame construction and detailing, suitable for Self Building