July 15th, 2011 - Last Sunday the first European seminar took place in Gothenburg. The seminar was organized by EECO. The host organization this year was Earthship Sweden, our sister organization.
The fact that our chairman went on a building expedition in Sweden with a group lead to the invitation to come talk about Earthship Europe and explain the concepts behind earthships. On arrival the whole team was warmly greeted by Marcus and Sebastian from Earthship Sweden.
It turned out that a team of the local TV channel was present. Marcus had also arranged that the seminar would be filmed for using these tapes within EECO.
Quite a diverse audience showed up for the lectures. Notable was the numerous attendance and interest from the Swedes.
Look in the room - Photo: Sebastian Strasser, Earthship Sweden
Willy, our chairman, opened the seminar with explanation in Enlgish on the origin of Earthship Europe, which has grown out of the present needs present in Europe. Furthermore, he gave an insight into how Earthship Europe is organized to meet these needs now and in the future. Central are the free sharing of information, knowledge, talents, energy and time, now known as Open Source Earthship Building (OSEB).
Earthship Europe organisation - Illustration: W. Raets
After this we looked at a short film presenting in a nutshell what earthships actually are.
Our chairman, Willy Raets, during his presentation - Photo: Sebastian Strasser
Then began the first part about earthships and the concepts behind it. After a brief explanation of what earthships are and a look at the different models a discussion followed on how earthships are built and what techniques are used. The problems occurring in existing earthships in Europe were explained and there was a look at possible solutions offered in the 'Euro-model'. This model is intended to experimentally determine if the problem is resolved.
Euro model - Illustration: W. Raets
This was followed by a break and the opportunity for a sandwich and coffee. During the break there were the necessary discussions among the attendees.
After the break the lecture was continued by explaining the various water systems, energy systems and the applications that match earthships. Further sources were mentioned that are worthwhile for people who want to build. Also focus on how Earthship Europe, Belgium and Sweden may be helpful and what they have to offer.
Then it was up to Kevin Scot, the driving force behind the Green Circle Alliance and owner and builder of the 'Midgård Blackship', the goal of our building expedition this year. Kevin gave a touching account of how he ended up at earthships and what it had brought him thus far; meetings with the community, their enthusiasm, support and commitment but also the subsequent withdrawal of the community after changing of the guard. But also, the many disappointments, perseverance, determination and the long arduous road to achieving an earthship.
Kevin Schot, Green Circle Alliance - Photo: Sebastian Strasser
Kevin also spoke about his contacts with indigenous peoples in North America, Africa and Asia and how earthships and the knowledge of this technology could really help people there to build up their lifes in a better way. These ideas and networks were developed by him in the Green Circle Alliance. Talking about these issues brought up a lot of emotion in Kevin and lots of respect for this wonderful man.
The new generation was also present - Photo: Sebastian Strasser
Afterwards followed a discussion with the audience and the necessary questions and offers of help where made. Many stayed long after and the whole seminar was very inspiring and encouraging.
We would like to thank everyone involved for their presence and contribution.
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