February 15-20, 2010
El Bolsón, Patagonia, Argentina
Inquiries and registration
bioconstruyendo@gmail.com
Program includes:
Introduction to Permaculture
Permaculture and Natural Building
Passive Solar Design
Introduction to Natural Building
Composting Toilets
Solar Water Heating
Grey Water Treatment
Sacred Geometry
Electricity
Green or Living Roofs
Geodesic Domes
Natural Building Techniques Covered:
Adobe Brick
Wattle and Daub
Light Straw-Clay Bricks
Earth Bag Construction
Cob
Natural Plasters
Earthen Sculpture
Tile Mosaic
Natural Paints
Insulating Panels
Cast Floor Panels
Location
CIDEP, which stands for Center for Permaculture Research, Development and Education, will be the central location for both hands-on projects and lectures. The center is a 24 acre farm in a beautiful rural area at the foothills of the Andes and 9 miles from the center of the town of El Bolson. Many sustainable systems at various stages of development exist at the center including natural windbreaks, natural buildings, alternative energy generation, passive solar systems, composting toilets, recycling, garden, and nature reserve spaces. The presence of all these systems creates a dynamic environment for participants since they actually live in and experience them.
Lodging and Facilities
The coursesare residential-based since the community experience is an important part of the program. The facilities are simple: including 12 dormitory-style beds and many options for camping. Composting toilets are available. Participants should bring sleeping bags, sheets (or a tent depending on arrangement), towel and other personal hygiene materials, flashlight, comfortable and warm clothing, hat to protect from the sun and footware adequate for not getting your feet wet.
Lodging in the dormitory is limited so it is necessary to reserve your sport upon registering.
Food
Food served during the course will be based on a naturalist diet which includes organic, fresh, whole grained and varied options. We will harvest many vegetables straight from our and neighboring farm. We make sure that you receive a diet that will keep you energized and open-minded throughout the course. Like other aspects of the course, the cuisine we serve is an expression of creativity, art, care of people, and care of the earth.
Registration and Costs
The cost of the course is $1500 (Argentine pesos) or its international equivalent (aprox. U$S 400 / € 275). Registration is confirmed with a 30% downpayment.
Any other inquiries can be directed to the following email: bioconstruyendo@gmail.com .