A new conference and events center in the U.K. is said to be one of Europe’s “most sustainable and healthy” structures. And it was built with almost $1.5 million worth of chalk. No kidding.

Your support powers solutions-focused climate reporting — keeping it free for everyone. All donations DOUBLED for a limited time. Give now in under 45 seconds.
Secure · Tax deductible · Takes 45 Seconds

Stories like this don’t tell themselves.

Make others like it possible. Your support powers solutions-focused climate reporting — keeping it free for everyone. Give now in under 45 seconds.
Secure · Tax deductible · Takes 45 Seconds

Extracted from the White Cliffs of Dover, the chalk was literally pounded into place to create the walls of the structure. Other sustainable materials — like locally sourced clay tiles and an insulated soil roof — were used as well, and the building as a whole needs just 15 percent of a conventional building’s energy requirements.

Revenue from events held at the Pines Calyx will go toward maintaining the grounds. Which, I can only imagine, will involve a lot of dusting. Perhaps they could put those furry hats to use?

To support our nonprofit environmental journalism, please consider disabling your ad-blocker to allow ads on Grist. Here's How