Findhorn Ecovillage

The Findhorn Foundation has been promoting principles of sustainable development since its creation in 1962. Located on the North East coast of Scotland on two main sites near to and within the town of Forres, Findhorn began with a small community of 3 adults and their children. Through pioneering methods of horticulture on what was a relatively barren sand dune ecosystem, they gradually became more and more self-sustaining. 

The community grew steadily throughout the ‘70’s and ‘80’s and ‘90’s into what is today one of the largest intentional eco-communities in the world numbering over 140 residents and over 4000 visitors every year. Findhorn has a strong tradition of spiritual exploration and has an extensive programme of workshops, conferences and retreats covering a wide range of issues. Since 1985 much of Findhorn’s sustainable living management has been directed through the Findhorn Ecovillage project – a continuation of Findhorn’s tradition of working closely with nature.

The Findhorn Ecovillage has developed a unique, environmentally sound, energy efficient construction system using natural materials and are supplying approximately 28% of our energy from our own renewable energy sources, including our own wind park. There have been 56 ecological buildings erected on the Park site to date, including an innovative 'Living Machine' biological sewage treatment plant. We have installed numerous solar heating systems; set up a comprehensive recycling scheme; published Simply Build Green the UK’s first technical.

We also have a well-researched tradition of growing around 70% of our fresh food requirements using organic and permaculture techniques on several sites around the community. This community-supported agriculture, called EarthShare, also provides enough for a box-scheme which serves the surrounding area.

The Ecovillage has produced a guide to ecological housing, based on our own research and experience and has became a major resource for environmental education locally, nationally and internationally. According to the UN, we now have the lowest ecological footprint of any community in the industrialised West. The Findhorn Ecovillage is also used as a teaching resource by many university and school groups as well as by professional organisations. 

In addition we design and deliver Ecovillage / Sustainability Education courses to communities, groups, universities and municipalities worldwide. If you want to come and visit, we offer tours of the Ecovillage site booked in advance through the Visitors Centre or alternatively you could book on a residential course and explore the Ecovillage in your own time.