EcoAndina project in Laguna de Pozuelos biosphere reserve.
In the north and northwest of Jujuy province (Argentina), people are finding that solar energy, a clean and inexhaustible source, can replace firewood, which is increasingly scarce. The EcoAndina Foundation is showing the way through a series of projects.
EcoAndina’s goal is to improve living conditions for local residents by sustainably harnessing the abundant sunshine and wind, while maintaining the cultural and historic identity of local indigenous communities.
Since it began its efforts two decades ago, some 400 solar energy units – which power family and community kitchens, bread ovens, heaters and hot-water tanks – have been installed in 30 towns in the region
The first “solar village” is Lagunillas del Farallón. in Laguna de Pozuelos biosphere reserve. It is a category that gives the community a higher standing and fills it with pride, because the residents are recognised for using clean technologies.
The strategy followed by the project was to introduce solar technologies through small-scale pilots in such areas as solar cooking, solar water heating, solar heating of buildings and solar water pumping. The technologies were tested under real life conditions with the rural people, and adapted accordingly. The EnSoCoR team had prior working experience in the villages, which made it easier for them to engage both the men and the women in testing these new technologies. Women head many of the households, and they certainly played a major role in these pilots.
Fundación EcoAndina
Source: TIERRAMERICA
Related links:
CARBON CREDITS IN BENEFIT OF ANDEAN SOLAR VILLAGES PDF
Pueblo Solar Andino El Libertario
