Sustainability at Arenas Del Mar

At Arenas Del Mar, we define the term sustainable tourism as:

 
"Responsible travel that conserves the environment 
and improves the well-being of local people." 

We seek to demonstrate that a world class resort can be successfully combined with the highest levels of sustainability. Working with Costa Rica’s Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST), Arenas Del Mar is truly an exemplary project for tourism worldwide.  For more information on the CST, click here.

The Sustainability Experience

Energy Efficiency 

• Solar panels to heat hot water coupled with energy saving auxiliary water heaters.
• Energy efficient lighting and illumination throughout the entire property.
• The use of electric cars on property that significantly reduce our carbon emissions.

Water Management and Conservation

• Chlorine free ionization systems to clean pool water.
• Use of low-flow toilets.
• Non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products.
• Eco-friendly amenities.

Waste Management

• Recycling and waste management system.
• Advanced wastewater treatment systems which assure that all water leaving our properties will not affect the surrounding water sources.
• An advanced vermiculture-based compost system to recycle organic waste.
• Bamboo Straws.

Conservation of Biodiversity

• Native plants nursery.
• Private reserve and reforestation.
• Plant a Tree Program.
• Flora & Fauna Protection.

By Design Operations

• Underground electricity systems that do not interfere with surrounding wildlife and other environmentally friendly construction practices.
• Roof tiles made from discarded plastic bags from the banana industry.
• Recycled materials used throughout the property.
• The Sustainability Tour
• Carbon Offsets
• Good Environmental Habits to Take Home

Our Community

• Hiring staff from the local community.
• Supporting local artists and businesses throughout the gift shop and spa.
• Adhering to national, legal codes of conduct.
• Donations to support our local schools (see Community Development below).

Geotourism

According to National Geographic´s Center for Sustainable Destinations, “geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place—its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. Geotourism incorporates the concept of sustainable tourism—that destinations should remain unspoiled for future generations—while allowing for ways to protect a place's character. Geotourism also takes a principle from its ecotourism cousin,—that tourism revenue should promote conservation—and extends it to culture and history as well, that is, all distinctive assets of a place.”

Since its construction, Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort has worked diligently to become a geotourism destination by participating in the following activities:

• Working towards the conservation and reforestation of Manuel Antonio
• Supporting environmental education efforts in the surrounding community
• Providing guests with ample information about local culture and customs
• Promoting and encouraging manifestations of local culture, including:
• Hosting traditional artisans in the lodge to promote their work
• Incorporating local dishes, flavors and ingredients into its menu offerings
• Striving to achieve the highest levels of sustainability in its operations and architecture by installing technologies such as solar panels, non-chlorinated pool cleaning systems, worm-based composting and more
• Promoting the concept of sustainable development among neighbors and local community members
• Working with Costa Rica´s prestigious Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST)
• And much more!

To learn more about the concept of geotourism, Click Here

"Congratulations! Your hotel is beautiful and your commitment with conservation is exceptional. We so enjoyed the exchange to practice our Spanish and to help with English lessons. The grounds are gorgeous and loved our hike with Eduardo, you are truly a model for sustainable tourism and we only hope others will follow, you lead! Thanks for everything." Lauren and Shawn Hermley Benfort, NC USA

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