Ecodyfi is a locally-controlled third sector organisation based at Y Plas, Machynlleth.  Ecodyfi was developed during 1997, established in 1998 and incorporated in 1999. Individuals in Powys County Council and Dulas Ltd were the initiators.

 

To start with it was a 'top-down' organisation. Gradually the centre of gravity shifted as the local Board members took control, and this was consolidated following a community consultation in 2002. While the legal name remains the Dyfi Eco Valley Partnership, funding and other partners no longer have places on the Board; Directors being elected by members at AGMs.

 

The Directors’ mission is "to foster sustainable community regeneration in the Dyfi valley". This includes strengthening the local economy through sustainable tourism and farming, highlighting local distinctiveness and addressing issues around globalisation such as resource use, waste creation and re-localisation.

 

Ecodyfi activities have varied over time, depending on resources, with renewable energy and sustainable tourism receiving the most consistent attention.

 

Projects have included Tirwedd Dyfi (exploring the links between Welsh language, culture, landscape and nature); working with tourism providers on sustainable practice, product development and joint marketing; and supporting the setting up of Bro Ddyfi Community Renewables Ltd and other community energy projects.

 

Annual dividends from their two wind turbines are placed in the Dyfi Community Energy Fund and managed by ecodyfi to reduce carbon emissions locally. There have also been projects around being active in the outdoors, reduction of ecological footprint of the valley, transport, waste, fair-trade, lifelong learning …

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In addition, ecodyfi continues to play a crucial role in facilitating the active collaboration required to make the most of the UNESCO designation for sustainable development, the Dyfi Biosphere.

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Beyond the Dyfi Valley, contracts with the Energy Saving Trust, Severn Wye Energy Agency and Development Trust Association Wales have allowed us to support communities and businesses with renewable energy and resource efficiency schemes.

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Ecodyfi is a Company Limited by Guarantee and has a Board of the 12 voluntary Directors and one staff Director. It also has a membership scheme with nearly 200 individuals and 27 organisations, including nine Town and Community Councils.