Case Study: Sustainable Hotel in Baja California

A hotel on the Baja California coast decided to tackle the water crisis with a completely sustainable approach. Its goal was to operate without relying on municipal water or deep wells, ensuring minimal environmental impact and aligning itself with the principles of responsible tourism.

1. Rainwater Harvesting

Although Baja California is not known for its constant rainfall, the hotel's design optimizes rainwater collection during periods of greatest rainfall. Specially designed roofs and surfaces collect rainwater, which is filtered and stored in underground cisterns for later use.

2. Treatment and Reuse

Every drop of water in the hotel is used multiple times throughout its life cycle. Wastewater is treated through a constructed wetland system , where plants such as papyrus and reeds remove contaminants naturally. The water then passes through advanced filtration systems (activated carbon, zeolite and ultraviolet light) to be reused in irrigation, cleaning and other non-potable processes.

3. Reforestation and Ecosystem Restoration

As part of its sustainability strategy, the hotel carried out an ambitious reforestation project. Red, black and green mangroves were planted in nearby coastal areas, improving soil stability and preventing erosion. Additionally, artificial dunes were built on the beach, which helps mitigate sand loss and protects the marine ecosystem from the effects of the tides.

4. Environmental and Economic Impact

• Reduction of water consumption by 80% : By not depending on external sources, the hotel has achieved almost total water autonomy.

• Savings in operating costs : Less dependence on external supply means lower expenses in transporting and pumping water.

• Regeneration of coastal ecosystems : Reforestation with mangroves has allowed the recovery of local flora and fauna.