Developing Beyond Sustainability

Rural Communities & Renewable Energy

Solar Energy International (SEI) is proud to be a leader in renewable energy education.  Each year we teach hundreds of people how to design and install renewable energy systems and how to build energy efficient solar homes.  Many of our participants attend our workshops because they have a sincere desire to help people in lesser-developed countries.

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

Ecology, Permaculture & Renewable Energy

Sustainable Agriculture & Renewable Energy

Thursday- Thursday, March 6-13, 2008

Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador- Rio Muchacho Organic Farm

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.

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 learn how to design a small solar electric system for a rural community, and will install one at the farm. Participants will also learn about and construct a methane biodigestor to be used for cooking fuel. 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.

* Plan on arriving in Quito Wednesday, March 5, and leaving Bahia de Caraquez Friday, March 14th (or late evening March 13th)

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 purchase of a solar electric system and biodigestor for the community.

March 14 - 15: Optional trip to the Andean community of Otavalo, famous for its indigenous craft market. Visit the Otavalan market, the famous Peguche waterfall, and an artisan's collective. $250 (includes air fare to Quito, transport to Otavalo, all meals and lodging, return to Quito)

This course will be taught in both English and Spanish
Este curso seria ensenado en ingles y espanol