The Building Advisory Service and Information Network, basin, was set up in 1988 to provide information and advice on appropriate building technology and to create links to know-how resources for all those in need of relevant information: government officers, financiers, builders and developers, architects and planners and building material producers - anybody in need of up-to-date information and advice on the manufacture, performance and availability of sustainable building technology from around the world.

There are currently nine active members aiming to provide clients with access to building technology and advice. These advisory services are provided via the half-yearly newsletter "basinNews", internet-based information services such as databases, international seminars and conferences and Q&A services. The network partners also meet periodically to discuss and present new issues and trends in sustainable building technology. Today, basin has become the leading international network for knowledge sharing on building construction and habitat issues.