Sonairte [pronounced SON-ART-A ] is an interactive visitor centre promoting ecological awareness and sustainable living.  The name  Sonairte  is derived from a middle Irish word meaning  “positive strength” . Sonairte was established as a charity in 1988 by members of the local community and concerned environmentalists to promote environmental awareness and education. The founders drew inspiration from organisations such as the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales, the HDRA (now Garden Organic) in the UK and the Permaculture Research Institute in Australia, and from activists such as Fernando Pereira after whom a courtyard is named.

Sonairte has been certified as an organic food producer with the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association since 1988 and subsequently by Irish Organic Trust, and has been teaching organic horticulture and providing courses in various aspects of environmental education ever since. Sonairte is a registered charity and welcomes tax efficient gifts. – to provide education in all aspects of ecology

– to promote sustainable living through learning and cooperation – to promote sustainable development – to promote organic, ecological and sustainable farming practices

– to promote environmental awareness and nature conservation – to promote appropriate and sustainable technologies – to promote the use of genuinely renewable resources