Sustainability

The Centro Neotrópico SarapiquíS functions as an advanced learning centre for sustainability. First, the impact of visitors on the environment is kept to a minimum. Secondly, sustainable tourism assures that the local economy is being stimulated without doing harm to the environment or depleting resources.

We present here a quick overview of economic realities and challenges. Let us begin exploring sustainability at the wastewater treatment plant.

Environmental impact : water treatment

• Sustainability starts with everyday behavior, like the way we use water. The Centro Neotrópico SarapiquíS adheres to a rigorous environmental program.
   
  All the wastewater of the toilets, showers and kitchen flows by means of an underground drainage system to a biological water treatment plant 12 meters below the source.
   
• The three-stage drainage and tank system was originally conceived by Kate Seidel and Dieter Rausch for developing regions of the world.
   
  There is no use of pumps, electricity or chemicals. After pre-treatment, the water flows to the main treatment basin. Several species of helophytes assure effective biological cleansing of the wastewater.
   
• The third stage performs the critical task of removing nitrates, phosphates and bacteria.
   
  Relatively pure water is what we get after dirty water has worked its way through lava rocks and plant roots. The processing time of wastewater is 10 days. Jean-Pierre Knockaert, president of the Landscape Foundation Belgium, proudly demonstrates the remarkable results.

Environmental impact : energy

• Solar energy is used to heat water.
   
  Water is pumped over the sun-heated bottom of a black flatbed collector. Eleven panels measuring 2.5 m x 1.5 m collect the heat. Each panel produces 2,160 Kwh / year. This results in 23,760 Kwh / year being saved.
   
• At night, the terraces and rooms are lit primarily by energy-saving bulbs. A wind turbine will be installed soon.
   
  Of the 350 light bulbs in use, 285 (81.4 %) are energy-saving. By this practice the project saves 11,150 Kwh / year.