We have incorporated the following features to try and minimise our impact on the planet.

• Solar panels to provide power for lights and fans.
  
  
• Hot water for showers and washing is solar heated. Outside light bulbs are low energy and the yellow colour repels insects.
  
  
• Solar powered wireless internet connection - bring your own laptop or use the office computer for maximum period of 30 minutes.
  
  
• Materials used in construction (the building was completed in 2007) were locally sourced.
  
  
• We have planted over a hundred trees, including ceiba, guanacaste and cedro, to replace some of the wood we have used.
  
  
• We grow as much of our own produce as possible – including excellent coffee, oranges, bananas and a range of vegetables – all grown organically.
  
  
• We keep free range hens and ducks, both for the Chicken project and to provide fresh eggs.
  
  
• Other supplies are bought from local farms, the co-operative store in San Juan de la Concepcion and the market in Jinotepe – this is a more expensive option than going to the supermarket but allows us to support the local community.
  
  
• A wormery provides organic compost.
  
  
• As much as possible is recycled – for example plastic bottles are used in a simple but effective watering system and to house decorative plants on the patio!
  
  
• Your used shower water is collected in a special tank which is emptied every day – the grey water is used to water the garden – we ask you to help with this by using organic products in the shower.
  
  
• A rainwater collection and storage system has been installed.
  
  
• We use public transport whenever possible.