Following extensive assessments Simbithi Eco-Estate is being developed to minimise its environmental impact. Geology and soil assessments, water resource and drainage appraisals, land use and vegetation studies, and aesthetic, historical and cultural appraisals have been undertaken, and indigenous plants and native wildlife has been introduced to the estate.

• zero-carbon

Houses oriented to maximize solar energy for light and heat; appropriate sized windows and skylights incorporated to minimize the need for electric lighting and heating/cooling. Homeowners are encouraged to use solar panels.

• zero-waste

Residents and guests are encouraged to reduce usage of packaging and recycle. Collection points are provided onsite.

• sustainable water

Roofs have been designed for water catchment and clean run-off is directed into wetlands/ponds/dams. Installed permeable paving allows water to soak through instead of washing away. Water saving devices, grey water recovery and rainwater tanks at houses are encouraged.

• local and sustainable building materials

Buildings are made from sustainable local wood. Tradesmen are local to the area.

• sustainable transport

All golf cart are electric and they are encouraged for onsite transportation. There is no shuttle service but as estate populates one will be set up.

Located on the Red Sea coast, La Siesta is less than one hour and one-half drive (140 km) from Cairo. The resort is a self-contained beachfront community with mountain views, its own roads, power generation unit, water system, sewage treatment plant, satellite connection, security, maintenance and other services and amenities.

• zero-carbon

A pilot scheme for solar production of water heating, lighting and electricity is to be implemented by the end of 2008. Initially it will provide power for all external lighting; after successful introduction it will then provide power to individual homes.

• zero-waste

All rubbish collected is separated and recycled. For homeowners, a new recycling scheme is being introduced for food, paper, plastics and household waste. Compost facilities provided in onsite garden nursery that supplies home production of vegetables. Tiles, bricks and other construction items are recycled onsite.

• sustainable water

All toilets have reduced flush mechanisms. At present a small pilot scheme for reuse of household waste water i.e. washing machine water for toilet flushing is in review. Own sewage treatment plant installed. The pathways and roadways are permeable surfaces.

• local and sustainable building materials

Local materials including bricks, cement and much of the construction material are sourced from the mountains ringing the resort. Local labour is used and housing provided for the workers.

• sustainable transport

An airport shuttle is provided. Bicycles are used on site; electric buggies are being introduced. As site is exclusive, vehicle traffic is mainly owners. Visitors use onsite bicycles or walk the area. Some onsite workers provided with bicycles and carriers to get around the site.

The small, exclusive development of Vila Jardins do Oceano is built to the highest specifications and to incorporate eco features, such as good insulation and being entirely self sufficient for water, resulting in low running costs as well as being environmentally friendly.

• zero-carbon

Backup energy is provided by an onsite electrical generator, which uses mainly wind power. UK specification copper wiring ensures the highest transfer. All homes are fully insulated.

• zero-waste

Building waste is re-used as hard core to eliminate wastage. Recycling will be encouraged as part of the eco-theme to the development.

• sustainable water

Grey water is recycled for irrigation, with over 80 per cent of water re-used after cleansing for onsite irrigation.

• local and sustainable building materials

As the development is situated within a Unesco World Heritage Site, local materials and traditional techniques are utilised. Natural materials include stone, timber and thatch to sympathise with the environment of Cidade Velha.

• sustainable transport

Traffic calming is achieved through the construction of a single lane cobbled road for access to the development.