Cloughjordan Ecovillage - Global Ecovillage Network

As an award-winning sustainable neighbourhood in a rural town, we are a destination for learning-by-doing and action research into sustainability, resilience, community living and rural regeneration, as well as, of course, a lovely place to live. With 55 houses for 130 residents and over 15 businesses, co-operatives and learning providers, we represent a dynamic ecosystem of innovation. We are still moving towards our 130-house target and welcome interest from prospective new members.

Through renewable energy heating, well-insulated houses, a community farm, green enterprise centre with co-working and digital fabrication laboratory, community woodlands, and university research relationships, the project serves as a powerful model for transitioning to a low-carbon society and building community resilience.

Sustainable Projects Ireland Ltd. (SPIL) is a not-for-profit members’ cooperative and a registered educational charity, which was set up in 1999, as a company limited by guarantee. Its primary objective is to provide a model for future development for the island of Ireland. It has a dual focus on sustainability and community development. All the current residential accommodation is private and we are now also exploring opportunities for cohousing, as well as remaining open to those interested in private ownership.

The ecovillage has extended the existing village of Cloughjordan, which previously had an adult population of 430 and now reaches to about 700. Some leading local community members saw the opportunity to regenerate their village that was in decline. Being integrated into an existing settlement also helps to mainstream sustainability. Our educational charity draws thousands annually to learn about modern technologies that help lower emissions and our resilient community which fosters a rich sense of interdependence. We also model rural regeneration, drawing visitors to foster a new social, economic and cultural dynamism.