LOS ANGELES, California – GAÏA Riverlodge is one of Belize’s most renowned jungle retreats located in the scenic Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in the country’s western hinterland. This natural pocket of paradise is defined by its mountain ranges and collection of spectacular waterfalls. The resort’s lush grounds overlook the Five Sisters waterfalls, a dynamic natural attraction and a powerful contributor to the property’s sustainability.
GAÏA Riverlodge owner Daniel Lighter said, “We have completed the installation of a clean hydropower energy system and are consistently expanding our eco capabilities. By respecting and giving back to our environment we hope that locals and tourists alike will be able to enjoy Belize’s natural wonders for years to come.
“We have also recently introduced an organic garden on-site which harvests fresh vegetables and herbs for our restaurant and will provide produce for our sister property Matachica Resort & Spa in Ambergris Caye.
“For this and all our efforts we are proud to receive certification by Green Globe, which we believe reflects our dedication to the local community and the surrounding Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve,” added Mr. Lighter.
A recent on-site inspection by Green Globe Accredited Auditor, J.M. Green & Associates found GAÏA Riverlodge to be, “an exceptional tourism facility with an earnest desire to offer its guests a true sustainable tourism experience.”
The electrical energy generated from the hydro-power plant is stored in long life photovoltaic batteries and continuously monitored to ensure constant supply to the lodge. To lower overall energy consumption low voltage walkway lighting is utilized and CFL lighting is installed for general illumination.
The property has beautifully landscaped grounds with a large variety of native plants on show. It has also been designed to manage storm-water runoff and the collection of rainwater. At the same time local farmers have been engaged in a composting program to help with soil enrichment for the ornamental and organic vegetable gardens.
GAÏA Riverlodge and its surrounding area are home to over 450 species of orchids, palmettos, bromeliads and other exotic plants. This forest habitat is also a birdwatchers paradise with unique species including the Acorn Woodpecker, as well as Orioles, Oropendolas and Kites. To round out this exceptional eco-experience the GAÏA Riverlodge offers many of Belize’s popular attractions from zip-lining and cave exploration, to horseback riding on wilderness trails and boating along a local river. Some of the country’s most famous Mayan ruins are also just a day trip away.
About Green Globe Certification
Green Globe is the worldwide sustainability system based on internationally-accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses. Operating under a worldwide license, Green Globe is based in California, USA, and is represented in over 83 countries. Green Globe is an Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Green Globe is also a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). For information, please visit www.greenglobe.com
Green Globe is a member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP) .
Source: Green Globe