On the weekend of 30^th November to the 2^nd December we went to the Centre for Alternative Technology just north of Machynlleth in mid-Wales. The centre offers practical solutions to help us lessen our impact on the environment.

The weekend started with a four hour minibus journey through the winding country lanes of Wales. When we finally arrived at CAT the first thing we did was to introduce ourselves and to get to know other people a little better by “speed-dating”.

After breakfast on the Saturday morning, we were split into two groups. Our group’s first activity was looking at wind turbines and their power output. The guide was very informative and gave practical advice about using renewable energy in homes. After that session we had a hands-on construction activity where we helped to make a solar-powered water heater. Because of the weather conditions we had to use lamps instead of the sun, however the activity gave us valuable insight into solar power and its uses.

Following a lovely lunch, we went on a little exploration around the centre. We took advantage of the interactive displays which were both fun and educational. We looked at a range of exhibits including environmentally responsible buildings, waste management and hydro turbines.

Later on, after a quick power nap and supper, the evening activities began. We were put into groups and given the task of building a bridge out of straws, string and sellotape. Some were more successful than others. After the organised games we spent the night getting to know members of the group a little better which was good fun.

On Sunday morning, after an early start, we visited the shop, which had a range of goods from books offering sensible advice about environmental issues to organic lemonade. We packed up and set off for Cader Idris, a mountain almost three thousand feet tall. It was incredibly windy, it rained and it hailed but the sense of achievement far outweighed the struggle. The minibus trip home went surprisingly quickly, as most people were asleep and the driving had improved.

We found the weekend enjoyable if a little cold and wet. We learnt a lot and it was a good chance to meet other members of Engineers Without Borders, both from Cardiff and other branches.

-Helen McIntosh and Jenny Brooks