Wales Eco-Centre Now European Project Partner

The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT), has become a partner in the European pilot project Modern Earth Building for Promoting Regional Development.

This project, an initiative of the Leonardo da Vinci Programme of the European Commission's Education Directorate, aims to close the gap between increasing demand in Europe for clay plasters and clay finishes in interior design and the lack of training courses and formal qualifications in the subject.

The three year project, which CAT joined in November 2003, will promote regional development by creating national vocational qualifications and sharing the experience throughout Europe.

Each of the project's fourteen partners (from six European countries) will co-operate to create their own national vocational training diploma, Clay Plaster and Design.

The aim of the training is to develop the skills necessary for builders to cope with the increased public interest in clay.

As the UK partner, CAT will be responsible for developing an NVQ curriculum outline, course materials, and co-ordinating the testing and certification of the programme.

CAT was chosen as one of the project's partners because of its strong history and expertise in building with earth and clay.

CAT's AtEIC building, onsite at the Centre's headquarters outside Machynlleth, is a striking example of the beauty and possibilities when building with these natural materials.

The building boasts several awards for innovation and sustainability in construction.

Jacinta MacDermot, head of CAT Consultancy, says, 'There is lots of enthusiasm out there for clay because it is an inspiring and beautiful material with which to work.

It's great to be able to team up with Europe's leading earth builders to promote this natural building technique.

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