International Straw Building Conference

The International Straw Building Conference 2016 follows on from the hugely successful ISBC2012 hosted by the Colorado Straw Bale Association (COSBA). The Celebrating Natural Building in the 21st Century conference follows on from previous conferences by providing a forum to discuss and showcase developments in natural building worldwide.

Taking place at Methven Heritage Centre, Canterbury from 3 - 9 March 2016, the conference provides the opportunity to take stock of progress and developments, and continue conversations among the broad sector of people committed to straw bale building and natural building in general.

The 5 day, 6 night conference will feature keynote addresses, presentations from delegates, hands-on workshops and displays, trade shows, uniquely Kiwi social events, house tours (may be before and/or after the conference proper), the all-important Straw Bale Olympics and most importantly the opportunity to strengthen existing relationships and develop new ones.

The aim of the conference is to foster development, education, and awareness of the positive impacts of natural building and related sustainable building approaches. Globally the construction industry is not sustainable, placing large demands on both energy and material resources. It is vital that we learn to build and repair buildings in ways that not only minimise damage to ecosystems, but which also promote their regeneration.

Previous conferences have been held in Wagga Wagga, Australia in 2002, Ontario, Canada in 2006 and Colorado, USA in 2012.

For more information see the Straw Build Conference website. Register here.