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.

Las Fincas de Escamequita features large ocean view parcels of land (averaging one acre plus) for sale on which to build, powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. A portion of each sale is used for community enhancement practices such as water filtration systems, and eco-stoves. Fifty per cent of land purchased is protected; currently, 450 acres as a nature preserve, and a reforesting programme has been initiated.

• zero-carbon

The development is completely off-grid, facilitating only renewable energy (solar and wind) sources, which is included in the purchase price. A basic solar energy system is included in each purchase.

• zero-waste

The developer has been instrumental in initiating a recycling program in San Juan del Sur. Plastic and glass are recycled onsite; owners are encouraged to compost.

• sustainable water

Owners have a choice of using the onsite communal well system or a private well; there is no mains water onsite. Grey water treatment is possible and encouraged but is not mandatory. Waste water is handled by a self contained septic system that is required to be installed by the owner.

• local and sustainable building materials

Construction is either brick or block with post and beam construction. Walls typically are covered with stucco and roofs are either tin or two piece red tile; wood is used sparingly. Local labour is employed by the developer.

• sustainable transport

A local bus runs twice daily from town. All other transportations are available by contract when needed. The developer says electric cars are not available in the country. Residents’ vehicles are permitted onsite.

Located on a lagoon on the Coconut Coast, Bahia, Paradiso Laguna is an eco-resort where nature, landscaping and the preservation of the local flora are paramount. Comprehensive ecological studies have been undertaken before construction commenced. Homes are constructed using sustainable palm. Solar energy is a feature of each property, providing around 40 per cent of local hot water needs.

• zero-carbon

Solar panels will be installed in each home, providing around 40 per cent of local hot water requirements. Fully 90 per cent of the state’s energy needs are provided from renewable sources, primarily hydro-electricity.

• zero-waste

Sorting and recycling facilities will be provided inside each property, as well as at a central point onsite.

• sustainable water

A pre-filtered water system, and sanitary sewage system that distributes the treated effluent through its own irrigation system to the local green areas and gardens provide a ‘full cycle’ process onsite. Low flush and reduced flow products will be installed.

• local and sustainable building materials

Timber used is provided from local, sustainable and plentiful eucalyptus trees. Construction of infrastructure and homes will be undertaken by local labour force.

• sustainable transport.

No specific provisions for sustainable transport are noted.