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Those who share the vision of a wiser, more co-operative, and sustainable future....
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE GO TO: WWW.THEFOURGATES.COM or email: [email protected]
Some of our current programmes are as follows:
THE EARTH C.O.S.T. PROGRAMME
Carbon Offset to Save Trees – and Replant the Sacred Forest
Every year we impact the world through the carbon footprints we leave as a result of our petrol, gas, and electricity use, and our consumption of manufactured products. You can work out your carbon footprint here: http://www.nef.org.uk/energyadvice/co2calculator.htm.
The cost to the Earth of CO2 emissions is now well known, and includes pollution, global warming, and climate change. Even if we are consciously reducing our carbon emissions, we are still contributing to the problem if we are not putting back fresh air to replace what we have consumed. We can do so simply enough by just planting a tree, since every tree naturally offsets 650 kg of CO2, transforming pollution, offsetting the carbon we produce, and giving us breathable air.
The problem is that few people are doing so and, in fact, deforestation – the reverse of what we should be doing – is a major issue of our day.
Even sadder, it is native trees which are most affected by deforestation. In 1600, over 12% of Ireland was covered by broadleaf forests. By 1800, only 2% of the country was wooded.
Since then, Ireland has been working to restore its forests but, by 2000, only 7% of woodlands had been returned, and the bulk of the planting has been Spruce rather than native broadleaf trees. The Celtic spirit is dying.
For these reasons – to help you offset your carbon footprint, and to preserve native trees through reforestation - we have introduced the Earth C.O.S.T. Programme, which will create a new forest of Celtic trees at The Village. By planting one of these in your name and helping us protect and restore the land, you will also offset 650kg of your personal CO2 and reduce the impact of your carbon footprint.
Your donation of £20 means we can purchase and plant a new tree in your name or the name of a loved one, and your contribution will also be honoured at The Village at the entrance to the new forest.
We also welcome corporate donations if you would like to sponsor more trees to offset the carbon yield of your business, and have your contribution recognised at The Village.
THE EARTH STEWARDS PROGRAMME
Connection with the Earth is lacking in our culture. In schools, we are taught about nature from biology and chemistry books and in classrooms –– rather than through the experience of nature itself.
The Village Earth Stewards Programme works with schools and individuals to give children a more balanced perspective. We run courses in nature appreciation, wildcraft, survival skills, and vision quests as a rite of passage to help young people reconnect to the Earth.
The next generation will be the one we entrust our planet to. We must hope that they do a better job than some of our past and present leaders and we must also give them the skills and the vision to do so.
Nature Appreciation Camp: School groups are accommodated in our yurt village, living close to the Earth for a few days and nights. They work with us to learn from nature and help to construct and manage herb gardens, arts trails, and nature walks, involving themselves with the Earth and enjoying its beauty as they give reign to their creative imaginations. Through their endeavours they have a stake in nature forever.
Wildcraft and Survival Skills: Older school groups are invited to join us and learn from nature how to construct simple dwellings, make tools and utensils from natural materials, and discover how plants provide food and medicines.
Vision Quests: A traditional form of initiation into adulthood. Older school groups are accommodated in our yurt village, living close to the Earth, sharing a sweatlodge and preparing themselves for their quest. They then spend time on the land seeking a vision for their lives. They are welcomed back into camp with a celebration of their newfound purpose.
Through practices such as these children connect with nature, learn about the land, and get a new perspective on the world and their role in its future.
If you are a teacher or parent and would like your class, school, or child to learn skills like these, please contact us for details.
Email: [email protected]