At the Network of Wellbeing, we have a vision of wellbeing that is inclusive, collective, systemic and sustainable, because we believe that people can only thrive if the planet is thriving too. That’s why, over the last few years, we’ve invested tens of thousands of pounds in making Eden Rise, our haven for wellbeing, more sustainable. Here, our Eden Rise Manager, Sylvia Mohabir reports on what we’ve done.
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Eden Rise comprises two connected, 19th century barns that are nestled in the stunning Devon countryside near Totnes. The 200-year-old buildings embody our vision of personal and communal wellbeing working together with sustainability. Acquired in 2018 through an extraordinary act of generosity, Eden Rise has evolved into a haven for community workshops and retreats, offering a space that nurtures holistic growth while showcasing eco-conscious living. Sustainability at Eden Rise cannot be just a goal — it has to be woven into everything we do.
In 2023, we took a significant step forward by inviting a Master’s student in Sustainable Environmental Management from Plymouth University to carry out a comprehensive environmental audit of Eden Rise. This provided valuable insights into managing our carbon footprint more effectively and laid the groundwork for a focused Decarbonisation Report which was completed in 2024. Supported by Social Starters and commissioned by Libraries Unlimited and the BIPC Devon Decarbonisation Programme, this report identified the potential to generate far more solar power than we were previously doing at Eden Rise.
Thanks to part-funding from South Hams District Council’s Rural Prosperity Fund, and in collaboration with Bloom Energy Renewables, we recently carried out a major upgrade to our energy system. We installed 40 additional solar panels, increasing our total to 51 and enabling Eden Rise to largely rely on its own solar power. To complement this, we ensure that any additional electricity is sourced exclusively from 100% renewable suppliers.
Supporting eco-friendly travel is also important to us, which is why we have installed an electric vehicle charging point, allowing visitors to align their transport choices with their sustainability values.
Water conservation is another essential part of our sustainable approach. We source our water from our very own borehole. This was proving problematic so, in 2022, we installed an extra tank to ensure our supply of fresh, filtered water for retreats didn’t run out. This year, we’ve added four large rainwater collection butts that store rain for garden use – further relieving pressure on the borehole.
Upcycling is also central to our ethos, evident in the creative reuse of materials throughout the property which add to our unique character while minimising waste. We compost all food scraps, both cooked and raw, and maintain thorough recycling practices. To further lessen our environmental impact, we use only eco-friendly cleaning products, ensuring that our day-to-day activities remain gentle on the planet.
Looking ahead, our commitment to sustainability will continue to flourish. We plan to expand our garden to cultivate more produce on-site, boosting our self-sufficiency, and providing fresh vegetables for our users.
We want Eden Rise to be more than just a venue. We want it demonstrate how community wellbeing and environmental care can coexist seamlessly. Through subsidised rates for wellbeing retreats and partnerships with organisations hosting eco-conscious events, we want to show that personal growth and sustainability can thrive together. Visitors can immerse themselves in the peace and rejuvenation of nature, confident that their stay supports a mission committed to environmental stewardship.
For those seeking a place that inspires, uplifts, and prioritises the wellbeing of individuals and the Earth alike, Eden Rise offers an unparalleled opportunity. We invite everyone to experience this special venue and join us on our journey towards a sustainable future.
Visit www.networkofwellbeing.org/eden-rise to learn more.