Gaviotas

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Gaviotas, Colombia, is an ecovillage founded in 1971 by Paolo Lugari.

The community has produced a number of inventions and innovations over the years - notably including a children's seesaw that drives a water pump and a "distinctive 'sunflower' design" windmill that is well-suited to the plains in Colombia.

It is also noted for the planting of over 1.5 million trees. The impact of this planting is seeing the regeneration of rainforest area, the expansion of wildlife habitat, and economic benefits to the community primarily through the sustainable extraction of pine resin for products like turpentine and fuel.

Articles

 * Social Design Notes: Gaviotas
 * Nothing Wasted, Everything Gained
 * Time for Utopia
 * Gaviotas: In a War Zone, but Not at War
 * An Ecologically Sound Paradise in the Middle of a War Zone
 * Living on Sun, Water, Wind, Grass, and Community
 * Gaviotas at University of Iowa