SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Finca Del Mar is deeply committed to the growth of the surrounding communities, through infrastructure improvements, volunteer work at local schools and providing employment. All staff members are from neighboring villages. Finca Del Mar encourages growth from within. Staff is given training and support to enhance their work skills and hence their pay.
KEEPING IT GREEN
Every year we get excited when the rainy season starts again. Time to plant some more trees and watch the property turn into a lush tropical forest. Since day one we have planted thousands of native fruit and precious trees along the green areas, access roads, and common areas. We are seeing the fruits of our toil (pun intended), Mangos, Avocados, Jicacos, Coconuts, Oranges, Mandarins, Grapefruit, Figs, Mahogany, Teak, Guanacaste, … The list is long and we are proud of it!
REDUCE-REUSE-RECYCLE- COMPOST
It’s not just a jingle, but a way of life. We believe in leaving a small footprint. We buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste. We reuse, we recycle metals, glass, cardboard, paper, hard plastic and plastic bags. Trash is separated and hauled off to the local Municipal recycling center. Organic waste is turned into fertilizer in our composting station.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Solar energy is being used by several home owners to power their house. Nicaragua’s electrical production was 52% green (wind, hydro, thermo) in 2014 and shooting for 90% by 2017.
TROPICAL ARCHITECTURE
This is where local knowledge and experience come in handy. A smart design can eliminate the need for air conditioning and greatly enhance the comfort of a house. Nicaragua is blessed with abundant trade winds; learning to channel them through the house is a key factor for natural cooling. Together with high ceiling, use of local materials for insulation, big roof overhangs, and house orientation we are able to build homes that are stay cool and comfortable all year long.
SUSTAINABLE USE OF TREES FOR TIMBER
We source timber through a very strict process that guarantees the sustainable use of wood. Trees are sourced from established renewable plantations with all the proper permitting. Soon, local hardwood plantations will be mature enough to supply timber and thus further reduce the carbon footprint.
SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION
Finca Del Mar participates in the conservation of four species of endangered sea turtles. Our staff rescue sea turtle nests from poaching and manage a sea turtle nursery, caring for the eggs until the release of turtle hatchlings in the ocean. We also work to reduce poaching by providing economic opportunities, environmental education in schools and at the nursery and raising awareness here and abroad. www.loscardones.com/thi
