From Sonairte
Appropriate technology implies technology, not for technology's sake but for the the greater goal of sustainable development. Many of today's environmental problems have been caused by a lack of understanding of appropriate technology. Technology is a powerful tool and can enhance the lives of millions of people, but it also has the power to alienate and disenfranchise people. So we must decide, before deploying a certain technology, whether we need it and above all do we understand sufficiently it's impacts. Otherwise we are doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past.
Renewable sources of energy offer sustainable alternatives to our dependency on fossil fuels, a means of reducing harmful greenhouse emissions and opportunities to reduce our reliance on imported fuels.
Renewable energy from sources such as the wind, the sun, wood, waste and water is abundantly available in Ireland. Several renewable energy technologies are now commercially viable and capable of supplying clean, economical heat and power. Many of these technologies can be seen in action in our energy courtyard which is home to two wind turbines, thermal and photovoltaic solar panels, a hydraulic pump and other demonstrations which illustrate how electricty and heat can be generated.
Information and communication technologies are employed widely within the centre. This site and e-mail provide a means to disseminate information quickly and easily to all the volunteers and the public.
Old and new, from the wheelbarrow to advanced graphic design software, technology is used at Sonairte to pursue the aims of the centre.
