Report: As a Master: Expo of sustainable practices
The SusTech Expo took place on 17 April 2026 in Ljubljana at Krater Creative Laboratory and brought together practitioners working with low-tech, sustainable solutions in a live, open-format setting. The event started at 15:00 with a short introduction to the SusTech project, followed by individual presentations where each exhibitor briefly introduced their practice. At 16:00, participants joined the “Krater Expedition,” an interactive guided exploration of the space. The programme then continued informally until 19:30, with conversations, demonstrations, and exchanges at the stands. The event created a relaxed environment for direct learning, networking, and public engagement.
Participants
Approximately 20 visitors attended. The group was diverse, including individuals interested in sustainability, natural building, and alternative practices. Many participants were new to Krater and discovered it for the first time during the event.
Key Learnings and Highlights
A key highlight was the strong interest in place-based practices and real-life applications. The Krater Expedition offered insight into the history and development of the site, as well as related initiatives in Ljubljana such as Center Rog. Participants explored different parts of Krater, including the mycelium lab, forest garden (recently planted by Aljaž Plankl – he held an online lecture in our SusTech CoP), material extraction pit, and small workshop spaces. Exhibits included evaporative cooling systems, rocket stoves, compost toilets (Nara Petrovič), natural pigments (Pigmenterija), hemp clothing (Lucija Dej Kresnica – she held an online lecture in our SusTech CoP), soil block making with microorganisms (Ekološka kmetija Vile in vilice), underground living solutions (Zemljanka), clay plasters (Gnezdo – presented by Urša Koren who held an online lecture in our SusTech CoP), and biomaterials developed within Krater, including mycelium-based packaging (developed by Primož Turnšek- who held an online lecture in our SusTech CoP).
Participant Feedback
Participants expressed curiosity and surprise, especially those unfamiliar with Krater. The atmosphere was described as open, engaging, and inspiring, with appreciation for the hands-on and informal format.
Impact on CoP Development
The event strengthened connections within the Slovenian Community of Practice by bringing online exchanges into a shared physical space. It helped map existing practices and encouraged further collaboration.
Next Steps
Follow-up includes maintaining contact with participants and knowledge exchange. At this point, this marked the final planned event within the Slovenian part of the SusTech project, organised by Sunny Hill.
