We offer accommodation inside the Aquicuana Reserve and share
Pisatahua Retreat's infrastructure. Volunteers and interns share dorm
rooms in our sustainable ecolodges, the volunteer cabin and the research
station.
About infrastructure in Pisatahua:
We employ energy-efficient innovations to enhance the comfort
and aesthetic experience of our guests. We make every possible attempt
to utilize local, natural, and sustainable building materials for
housing and furniture.
We use renewable energy resources and we’ve
implemented simple, cost-efficient, energy and water conservation
measures. We treat grey-water and recycle all our waste.
Our
facilities were constructed with sustainably-harvested wood, bamboo,
and palm leaves. We designed all of our infrastructure in accordance
with traditional construction techniques; however, these methodologies
were adapted to meet our specific needs. Local community members are
employed for all our construction and maintenance needs.
All
construction methods minimized the removal of vegetation. The trees
whose lives we spared return the favor by cooling down the area and
shielding our guests from the sun.
We constructed limited number
of elevated walkways to prevent soil erosion and protect fragile
ecosystems. These walkways also protect our guests from the jungle
elements.
Energy and Water Conservation:
Due to our remote location, we’re completely off-grid and we must
generate our own electricity. Electricity use is limited to power a few
appliances such as common-area lighting, water pumps, and kitchen
equipment.
We’ve taken steps to minimize our water usage by
implementing a few simple measures including: low-flow restrictor
valves, low-flow toilets and water saving nozzles. Furthermore, guests
are required to use 100% biodegradable, phosphorous-free soap and
shampoo.
Some of our energy conservation measures include:
- Renewable solar energy light-bulbs
- Drying racks on clothes line
- Reusing towels and linens
- High efficiency appliances
- Energy efficient refrigeration
Our goal is to Leave-No-Trace when it comes to waste.
Anything we pack in, we bring out. We recycle everything we can in the
city of Riberalta. All organic matter from the kitchen is composted. A
conscious effort is made to reduce all packaging. Whenever possible we
purchase supplies made from recycled materials.
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