The resort’s infrastructure, set in more than 560 hectares of prime land with five kilometres of palm fringed beach, is dedicated to the concept of ecotourism. The Reef Club adheres to the Haute Qualité Environnementale (HQE), based on the principles of sustainable development first set out at the 1992 Earth Summit. All guests/homeowners will be encouraged to adhere to the ecological ethos in order to protect and enhance the resort’s unique ecosystem of mangrove glades, coconut palms and lagoons.

• zero-carbon

Solar panels on the roofs of every building will generate half the energy required for hot water, pumps and lighting. Ninety per cent of the energy requirements in Pernambuco, the state in which the Reef Club is located, is from renewable sources. Appropriate building orientation will maximise natural air-flow and reduce aircon demand.

• zero-waste

Recycling and waste reduction will be actively pursued through educational programmes. Only biodegradable detergents will be used for cleaning purposes onsite.

• sustainable water

An extensive rainwater storage system and wastewater recycling plant will irrigate the golf course and other appropriate green areas. Low flow taps and showers, and reduced flush toilets will be a feature of all buildings.

• local and sustainable building materials

The buildings will be low rise featuring wood and natural materials harvested according to sustainable practices. Qualta Foundation promises to generate over 3,000 jobs for the local community during construction, and many more thereafter in the ongoing running of the resort.

• sustainable transport

Golf buggies, bicycles and horses are to be used within the 560-hectare site. Motor vehicles will not be permitted within the resort’s interior.

Set on an old plantation estate in lush tropical rainforest, Culloden Reef has been sensitively designed to be entirely in tune with nature by international award winning architects Denton Corker Marshall. The land has passed its Environmental Impact Assessment, achieved the necessary environmental certificate and has sought Green Globe certification.

• zero-carbon

Villas have been designed to maximise natural air flow throughout and as such minimise the need for air conditioning. Considerations as to their shape and access to natural lighting have been considered so as to maximise natural ventilation and minimise artificial internal lighting.

• zero-waste

A recycling plant will be installed so as to reduce waste from the hotel and in turn reduce the need for land fill. Culloden Reef will also have its own composting site and a seedling nursery.

• sustainable water

Plans to reduce water usage are in progress. Cisterns under structures will be positioned for rainwater collection.

• local and sustainable building materials

Hardwood, cotton and hand-carved furniture, sourced from sustainable-forest projects in Guyana, will be used. Eco-sensitive construction methods will be employed and local labour will be used wherever possible. Plans also include an organic farm to supply the hotel with all of its fruit and vegetable needs as well as to supply the spa with its ingredients.

• sustainable transport.

All transportation will be as unobtrusive and quiet as possible. Cars will be restricted to the periphery of the development and onsite circulation will primarily be bicycles and golf carts.

Located on five miles of stunning beachfront, Reserva do Paiva will be constructed to a 20 per cent density on permitted build land, which is 10 per cent overall. Six national and internationally renowned architects have designed the resort’s first phase in a contemporary style. An eco-centre within the resort will educate and inform residents on issues of sustainability and ecology.

• zero-carbon

Solar energy will provide the hot water requirements fr all properties, which have been designed and oriented to maximise natural cooling effects. Ninety per cent of Brazil’s power is from the renewable source of hydro-electricity. Carbon emissions during construction will be offset.

• zero-waste

All homes will have recycling bins and facilities. The eco-centre will provide educational programmes for residents and guests.

• sustainable water

Grey water will be recycled for irrigation on the golf course and communal land. Water conservation will be practised in homes through reduced flow taps and low-flush toilets. Rainwater is harvested in lagoons for irrigation use.

• local and sustainable building materials

Where timber is used it is from FSC approved sources. Based on a formal statement that includes ethics, citizenship and social responsibility, 38,000 local people will be employed in the long-term.

• sustainable transport

Within the resort separate roads, lanes and pavements will be provided for cars, people, and bicycles. Electric buggies will be provided on site. An electrically powered bus will also operate internally.