Water
Waste water from showers and wash basins is collected, filtered and used for irrigation. Waste water from toilets goes to sceptic tanks to avoid water table contamination.
‘Econoflush’ toilets are used throughout the lodge.
Only soap is used for washing towels and bed linen. No use of bleach or Ariel-like detergents. 

Air
To minimize wood burning, there are no indoor fireplaces. 
To ensure the lodge remains a sanctuary for bird and insect life we do not use chemical herbicide or 
insecticide. 

Buildings
All building materials were locally sourced and sustainable. The use of adobe (mud brick) walls and terracotta floors provides effective insulation.
The design of Casa Colibri gives high priority to green areas: only 10% of the total area is built. The remaining 90% is green.
We have used recycled wood for furniture and décor.

Waste
Organic waste is composted for garden fertilizer. 

Electricity
Electricity in the Cuzco Region is hydro-generated. 
Casa Colibri minimizes power consumption through selective use of energy-saving light bulbs, and candles where possible.

Green Areas
Careful attention was paid to landscaping, colour and the surrounding flora to harmonize with the valley’s environment. We have laid out our green areas with reduced lawns and grass to allow for extensive flower beds. These have been planted with hundreds of different species of plants and shrubs to provide a natural environment for birds and insects. The number of bird species, including hummingbirds (colibris) is increasing steadily and the lodge is now a paradise for garden and nature lovers.

Community involvement
Staff at Casa Colibri are locally hired with full legal benefits. As experienced, professional language teachers we run English language courses for young people to help improve job prospects. We actively encourage local crafts people, including painters, carpenters, weavers and potters.