Bob the Builder 15 December 2010
A Bob the Builder exclusive from Sunflower Valley - where the world's best known builder has switched to eco-thinking.
I've moved away from Bobsville to a place called Sunflower Valley. It's got a really good climate, sunflowers love to grow there, and there's a coastline and mountains too!
Bob on his new project
What's so different about your work in Sunflower Valley?
This is the first time I've started from scratch. My big plan is to build a community that's self sufficient and based on three important things,"Reduce, Reuse, Recycle".
I want to build using environmentally friendly materials. I built Farmer Pickles' farmhouse from straw bales so it's warm in the winter and cool in the summer - and it looks good too.
We've restored a run-down mill so we can mill flour and make bread. I'm self-assembling houses built into the sides of hills. We're using solar power, wind power, sustainable materials.
It's one big learning curve for me!
Is it good for the kids?
I hope that by seeing what I'm doing, children will realise there's another way of living on this planet - a way which will help look after it.
If you work with your environment, not against it, we can change the future for the better.
Bob's philosophy
Do you ever get fed up of building?
The work in Sunflower Valley is more satisfying because you have to think really hard about everything you do. There's a real sense of achievement.
Like it says in the song: "Bob and the gang have so much fun, working together they get the job done". And it's true!
Watch fictional Sunflower Valley develop during the Bob the Builder cartoons on BBC2 daily. Also visit Bob's website.
© HIT Entertainment PLC and Keith Chapman 2002
