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This workshop provides an overview of technologies which promote small scale sustainable energy and agricultural practices in the developing world. This workshop is ideal for organizations working in rural areas, people wanting to get involved in sustainable development work, and those who wish to reduce their own ecological impact.

The course takes place in the beautiful South American country of Ecuador.

Spend a day in the UN designated eco-city of Bahia de Caraquez, visiting a recycled paper factory which provides environmental protection, environmental education, and community income production. Then tour "Heart Island" by canoe, a national wildlife refuge which has one of the best-conserved mangrove ecosystems in the coastal region. Also learn about the reforestation programs happening around the city.

Spend 5 days at the Rio Muchacho Organic Farm. Rio Muchacho demonstrates a combination of organic agriculture, permaculture, local traditional moon planting, renewable energies and recycling of almost everything. While at the farm participants will tour the PV systems and the methane biodigestor at the farm. Participants will also learn about and construct a bicycle powered water pump. We will also learn about natural building techniques and build a cob (straw and clay) bread oven. Optional activities at the farm include milking cows, harvesting fruits and vegetables, making cups, spoons, and jewelry from local plants, swimming in the river, or making chocolate from the bean to the cup.

Then spend one day at Canoa, a beautiful quiet beach town on the Pacific coast where you can lounge, swim or even rent a surfboard.

The workshop price includes lodging, most meals, and in-country transportation from Quito (you are responsible for transportation leaving Bahia after the workshop which we can help you plan). Part of the tuition helps fund the materials for the water pump and cob oven for the community.

Topics Include

• Appropriate Technology Projects & Applications
• Introduction to Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Energy
• PV System Components, Sizing & Design
• Methane Biodigestors
• Introduction to Permaculture
• Natural Construction
• Construction of a bicycle powered water pump
• Construction of a cob (straw and clay) bread oven

*Price includes food, lodging, and in-country transportation.

Related Workshops

• Renewable Energy for the Developing World - Project Design and Implementation
• Renewable Energy and Education TOUR OF CUBA
• Renewable Energy for the Developing World - Hands on
• Sustainable Community Development - Renewable Energy for Rural Villages - Hands on
• Appropriate Technology for the Developing World - Hands on
• Solar Electricity for the Developing World - Hands on

Workshops begin at 9 am unless otherwise noted. Please show up at 8:30 am the first day.