Sonairte:About

From Sonairte

Sonairte is an interactive visitor centre promoting ecological awareness and sustainable living

Sonairte was established in the late 1980's by members of the local community and concerned environmentalists. The organisation set out to promote environmental awareness and education by establishing an ecological visitor centre. The original founders, many of whom remain on the present Board of Directors, drew much of their inspiration from the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales.

The name Sonairte is derived from a middle Irish word meaning "positive strength", it is also an acronym which encompasses many of the aims of the centre:

• Sustainable development
• Organic growing
• Nature Conservation
• Appropriate Technology
• Intercultural Exchange
• Reconciliation and inner peace
• Trading Fairly
• Education

Sonairte, which is situated in a farm complex of noteworthy historical interest on the banks of the River Nanny near Laytown (Co. Meath), has developed steadily since it was originally established in terms both of its physical facilities and its standing as an environmental organisation, visitor attraction and educational facility.

The site covers some seven acres and is leased to Sonairte by local farmer Luk Van Doorslaer. Many of the buildings on the site which were in serious disrepair have now been renovated to a high standard and the final part of the re-roofing is underway and will be completed by 2008/9.

In all aspects of renovation care has been taken to stay true to the green philosophy of the centre, particularly in the choice of building material and use of renewable energy and energy conservation where possible. The facilities that have been created have allowed Sonairte to become active in many diverse fields. The centre is run by a staff of local volunteers who bring a wide range of expertise to its management.