Loreto Bay Company Makes Significant Strides Toward Achieving Sustainability Promises
Published 05-18-06
Submitted by Loreto Bay Company
Loreto Bay, Baja California Sur, Mexico- Loreto Bay Company, in partnership with FONATUR, Mexico's tourism development agency, is developing The Villages of Loreto Bay, an authentic Mexican seaside community in Baja California Sur. The company is committed to environmental, social and economic sustainability, with stewardship programs targeted toward each area. The company has made significant strides toward these goals. Following is a status update for key areas:
Employee carbon offset program. Employees and prospective buyers visiting Loreto may offset their carbon emissions from air travel by making a voluntary donation to the Climate Trust (www.climatetrust.org). As of May 1, Loreto Bay's corporate travel is 100 percent carbon neutral and approximately 30 percent of client travelers voluntarily make their Loreto trip carbon neutral.
One millionth adobe block. Loreto Bay's Earth Block Production Plant manufactured its one millionth block in May. The earth blocks used in construction of the homes of The Villages of Loreto Bay are manufactured less than two miles from the building site, minimizing vehicle emissions from transportation. Adobe earth blocks create breathable walls that reduce the pass-through of vapors and toxins, which helps the environment and reduces reliance on electric heating and cooling. In addition, the plant provides steady, well-paying jobs for local workers.
Solar hot water. Taking advantage of Baja's abundant sunshine, Loreto Bay Company is now offering solar hot water heaters standard for its homes, buildings and pools. This dramatically reduces electrical demand, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Agricultural growth. 20,000 mangrove seeds have been harvested and 7,500 mangrove seedlings were planted in the Loreto Bay Agricultural Center nursery. When mature, the mangroves will be planted along a series of natural and constructed estuaries, which creates a rich environment for sea life. Organic food is also produced at the center, which is enjoyed by the Inn at Loreto Bay restaurants and Loreto Bay home owners. Excess is donated to Loreto's drug and alcohol rehabilitation center.
Construction site recycling. Loreto Bay has trained construction workers to sort recyclable materials right on the job site as one of the key strategies to reduce waste. Since March, Loreto Bay has transferred five loads of cardboard, two of Styrofoam and one of plastics to different recyclers, utilizing trucks that would otherwise be traveling empty to La Paz. Loreto Bay believes it is the only construction site on Baja with multiple streams of recycling. Household waste generated by new home owners is similarly recycled.
Strong position on global warming initiatives. Loreto Bay's Vice President of Sustainability, David Veniot, has created a model for developers that outlines sustainability initiatives in real estate development. Among these initiatives are: concepts of passive solar design, reduced vehicle use and energy saving appliances, among other environmentally friendly alternatives.
"We're very proud to be setting a standard in applying sustainability practices to construction and development," stated David Venoit, Vice President of Sustainability. "Loreto Bay Company is committed to these principles and preserving the surrounding environment continues to be our main priority."
For more news and information on the Villages of Loreto Bay, please visit www.loretobay.com.
About Loreto Bay Company:
Loreto Bay Company, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is developing The Villages of Loreto Bay, a series of seaside villages in walkable neighborhoods built near the historic fishing village of Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico. The Villages of Loreto Bay will be a showcase for sustainable development practices. Founded in 2003, the company is led by Chairman David Butterfield, President and CEO Jim Grogan and CFO Tom Nolan.
Loreto Bay Company
Loreto Bay Company
Loreto Bay Company, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is developing The Villages of Loreto Bay, a series of seaside villages in walkable neighborhoods built near the historic fishing village of Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico. The Villages of Loreto Bay will be a showcase for sustainable development practices. Founded in 2003, the company is led by Chairman David Butterfield, President and CEO Jim Grogan and CFO Tom Nolan.
