LIDAR topographic map of our land in Coutansouze (Chemin du Ruisseau)
Coutansouze, Allier
Three hectares bordering the Natura 2000-listed Colettes Forest.
Our land
Located on the edge of the beautiful Colettes Forest— a protected forest designated Natura 2000— our land covers nearly three hectares of preserved natural habitat. This exceptional setting is home to a rich variety of local flora and fauna.
Martens, foxes, squirrels, rabbits, hares, rodents, wild boar and roe deer share this rich and vibrant ecosystem. It is in this genuine biodiversity haven that αωtonomia will organize hands-on community builds and free training activities.
LIDAR topographic map of our land in Coutansouze (Chemin du Ruisseau)
A young project
αωtonomia is still a young association and many years of work lie ahead before our vision is fully realized. Building the eco-centre will take time, and although our knowledge-sharing programme is already being developed, it cannot operate at full capacity until the required infrastructure is complete.
We warmly thank our supporters, followers, curious visitors and future members for their patience and encouragement. Every new membership is an important step toward making the project a success.
Our project
More than an ecological place to live, it will be a living learning environment where every feature becomes an educational tool designed to inform and inspire.
Planned facilities
The project will be developed gradually, in phases, according to the resources and support available.
Main public-access building for reception and training, with educational spaces and workshop rooms.
Demonstration dwellings showcasing ecological techniques, cave-inspired homes for extreme environments and innovative equipment.
Plant-based wastewater treatment, renewable energy (solar thermal and photovoltaic) and an atmospheric water generator.
Low-impact site servicing, durable access routes and low-impact water and electricity networks.
Landscaping, planting native species, biodiversity areas and sustainable farming demonstration zones.
Architectural and structural studies with integrated ecological design.
Teaching materials, information panels and equipment for practical workshops (solar ovens, etc.).
Demonstration buildings
Each building will serve as a full-scale demonstrator of different techniques: timber framing, straw, earth construction, bio-based insulation and bioclimatic design.
Visitors will be able to observe, touch and understand the construction choices and their benefits, making learning tangible rather than purely theoretical.
Water management
Our site will use water-treatment systems that are 100% plant-based : reeds, irises and other purification plants. No chemicals and no powered treatment process, relying instead on natural processes.
Combined with an atmospheric water generator and rainwater-harvesting systems, the eco-centre will aim fora high degree of water self-reliance.
Expected impact
Every contribution directly supports the creation of a unique educational space dedicated to sharing essential ecological knowledge for a more sustainable future.
Find us
Association αωtonomia
2 route de la Dragonne
03330 COUTANSOUZE
📧 contact [at] aotonomia [dot] fr
📞 +33 6 72 47 91 87
Support the project
All forms of support are welcome: members, donors, patrons, partners and volunteers. Every contribution moves the project forward.