Above and beyond the amazing things you can see and do in this area, we are also collecting other things we feel may be of value to you that will also help the locals build their economy with the natural wonders and talent Guatemalan's have to offer.
In the Mayan tradition, we cannot exploit the earth’s natural resources indefinitely without giving back and not face disastrous consequences. An alternative is sustainable development -- economic practices which create a balance between ecology and economics, providing jobs and expanding regional development in a way that sustains the environment. Sustainable economics in forestry also focus on generating markets for non-timber forest products, such as medicinal plants, oils, nuts, waxes, and resins, like chicle. This is a vision that can be supported by conscientious consumers and by the thoughtful sourcing of products. Sustainable economic systems are committed to ensuring that the products being harvested will continue to exist in the future.
By providing an outlet for such items, time will prove that land is more valuable forested than as pastureland and a trend will begin. As time goes on we both create more things to pass on and we find other people locally who make unique things we feel are worthy. It really bothers me that modern civilizations think that since this is a third world country that the people don't deserve a fair wage for what they work their fingers to the bone for by always trying to get the price down. They are not lower class citizens of the world! So with this in mind, the things we have to offer are still way below a fair trade price, but they are priced so the villages and families can still see a future. If you need charity, please contact your local government or family and friends. Otherwise this is where you will find incredible stuff.
Without any systems in place for recycling here yet like we had as children like "Don't be a litter bug", I take on the challenge personally to seek out any idea and opportunity I can to recycle things in hopes of the trend catching on. In many cases practical things can be made with minimal tools or skills, all you need is the ideas and ways to show people how to do it themselves.
It never ceases to amaze me that you can walk down a road here and even the children can name the plants that have medicinal properties for almost every malady. Nature here is still the primary health care and we encourage the locals to share this knowledge. So as the word gets passed on, new products are being introduced. Of course much scrutiny needs to be taken when things are brought to us, but when a plant is researched or common sense can be the judge, we are more than happy to help others help themselves. I've seen many seemingly crazy things practiced with no seeming logic that worked with great results. But sometimes you still have to wonder how much is mind over matter like a placebo. So when I can see for myself and have others approach cautiously with an open mind and a touch of skepticism, well, th?en I have to go to the next step.
Rio Rescue, Healing Insect Repellent
By combining a few all natural essential oils from two tremendously medicinal plants (primarily coconut and lemongrass) you have a multipurpose insect repellent that is grown and produced right here in Rio Dulce. Click on the picture to learn about the miraculous healing properties of the ingredients!
Noni Products
Noni is the most powerful antioxidents known to man which reacts on the cellular level for healing a wide variety of ailments. Click on the image for more.
Bio-Water Filters
The Biosand Water Filter removes over 98.5% bacteria, 100% bacteria, 100% of protozoa, 50-90% of organic and inorganic toxins, 67% of iron and manganese, and most sediments. This Biosand Filter is able to cleanse one liter per minute and is good for personal use but we are working on an industrial sized versions to accommodate commercial use. Click on the image for more information.
Bamboo Stuff
A wide variety of useful things can and are made with this rapid growing plant from trellises to houses. We have some fun items to choose from. Click on the image for more.
Planters
Many of these planters are made of rare exotic hard woods or one of a kind woods that cannot be reproduced. Keep this in mind while browsing this page as well as there being many more not pictured. Click on the image for more.
