By Sebi Gatica (Casa Catrina B&B)
Along with the MEXATUA team we had the opportunity to visit GIRA / UANDANI, a collective space located near Patzcuaro, Michoacán, which promotes the sustainable use of natural resources through ecotechnologies.
Uandani – GIRA is an experimental and training center operated by the Interdisciplinary Group of Appropriate Rural Technology (GIRA A.C.). Its main objective is to promote ecotechnologies, renewable energy sources and agroecology as alternatives for sustainable local development.
Uandani offers courses, workshops, postgraduate courses and consulting in a “learning-by-doing” environment. The exchange of knowledge is encouraged and a harmonious relationship with the environment and the local community is established.
The person responsible for this project is Victor Berrueta. He personally took us to see the eco-technologies that we found on site, such as:
Solar dryers: These devices harness solar energy to dry food, herbs and other products without the need for electricity. They are especially useful in rural communities where electricity is scarce.
Rainwater collectors: These systems capture and store rainwater for later use. They are an excellent way to provide clean water and reduce dependence on external sources.
Carbon filter water purifiers: These devices use activated carbon to remove impurities and contaminants from water. They are a simple and effective solution to improve drinking water quality.
Wood-burning and solar powered ovens and stoves: These technologies are designed to cook efficiently using wood or solar energy. They reduce smoke emissions and improve the health of people cooking indoors.
Dry and wet toilets: Dry toilets (without water) and wet toilets (with minimal water) are environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional toilets. They help save water and manage waste more sustainably.
Bio digesters: These systems break down organic matter (such as manure) to produce liquid fertilizer and methane gas. The manure can be used in agriculture, and the methane gas as an energy source.
We were able to see first-hand the implementation of all these eco-technologies in the Ecotech Kitchen.
We thank Victor and all his team involved in this project for opening the doors of this space and allowing us to learn about these ecotechnologies that are essential to create more sustainable and resilient communities. We hope that more people will be inspired by these initiatives!