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Environmental & Support
THE ECO-BUILDING
Completed in April 2006 the Eco-building is part of a trans-national project called Encourage aimed at improving environmental management.
Designed to have minimal environmental impact the Eco-Building demonstrates a range of environmental technologies and best practice that could appeal to a range of businesses.
The Eco-building is a prefabricated timber panel construction that incorporates straw bales as the main insulation component and highlights the use of sustainable materials and building techniques. Key themes for this low energy building include:
- Passive Ventilation
- Straw Bale Insulation
- Energy Efficient Lighting
- Maximisation of Natural Light
- Efficient Heating System
- Rainwater Harvesting
- A Renewable Energy Demonstration Feature
The Eco-building was the first Fair Trade Workplace in Wales and Fair Trade refreshments are available. The building is also accredited to level 2 of the Green Dragon Environmental Standard.
A new landscaping scheme has recently been completed at the Eco-building adding a welcome splash of colour and providing the finishing touches to this building with a difference.
The scheme compliments the building and helps to enhance the local biodiversity through the inclusion of native trees and shrub species. These species include Hazel & Blackthorn, which can provide an important food source for urban wildlife as well as cover for nesting birds.
Other features of the scheme include a natural stone wall, which contains niches amongst the stones for biodiversity, and a cycle-rack for those visitors cycling to the Eco-building.
The Eco-building is used as a venue to host environmental seminars, workshops and demonstrations for local businesses. The building is open to visitors and available for events. Get in touch - we are keen to spread the message about environmentally friendly building design!
Upcoming Events at the Eco-building:
- WEEE & Waste Legislation Seminar Friday 22nd February 2008
- Future events to be announced
For more information or to book the eco-building please email: ecobuilding@torfaen.gov.uk
For more information please contact: Rachael O'Shaughnessy
By email rachael.oshaughnessy@torfaen.gov.uk
By Phone 01633 648018