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Sustainability |
La Cusinga and the CST: La Cusinga's history began around 40 years ago, when owner John Tresemer came down to Costa Rica as a young sociologist student. Finding that the deeply-rooted, agriculturally based community set in the still virgin jungles of the south-pacific represented much of what was lacking in an increasingly modernized American society, John decided that here he would struggle to fulfill his dream of sustainable living: a balance between a respect for the area's natural wealth with the need to harvest a living off of its capital. Since the lodge opened 15 years ago, this family operation has developed into a truly sustainable business model, finding financial viability by combining a stewardship of the local ecosystems with a deep understanding of the need for continued human development. Despite the over 40 years that we have lived off of this precious land, we know that we ourselves, just as much as our visitors are all guests here. We believe that the true path to global "sustainability" begins with the personal commitment of individuals and small business owners, and that nature is the best teacher. For this reason we have structured our policies and practices to mirror the environment's systems, where one process's outputs are re-utilized as intputs in new cycles, thereby eliminating completely the notion of "waste". Though admittedly a lofty goal, we apply this concept in various ways, such as designing the lodge's structures with wood sustainably harvested from our property, utilizing the composted kitchen scraps in our organic garden to grow fresh produce, and harvesting the sun's energy for hot water and electricity. <-salto->Additionally, the lodge joins together employees, visitors, and guests in activities ranging from monthly beach clean-ups and supporting local recycling efforts to carbon offsetting through reforestation. We are also proud to have collaborated with the national government in the consolidation of its marine conservation policy, accompanying the country's leaders during the formation of the Caño Island Biological Reserve, Ballena Marine National Park, and the world-famous Cocos Island. Aside from natural preservation, the lodge supports a network of community businesses and organizations, thus strengthening the social fabric of the Ballena town and providing for sustained, human development. The history of La Cusinga Lodge parallels that of Costa Rica as a leader in conservation and "eco-tourism", and we are proud to be a part of the country's celebrated "Certification for Sustainable Tourism". Through initiatives like this we hope that tourism at large will serve as a model for other industries in which profits are achieved through a consideration for and strenghtening of local communities, both human and natural. We got 4 out of 5 in the CST Certification in 2010. (to know more about the CST Certification click here) |
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Copyright © 1999-2012 La Cusinga Lodge (La Cusinga S.A.), Uvita, Costa Rica Design: GraPH lounge | Progamming: PZproducciones.com| Maintenance: lacusingalodge.com |