Sustainable community
Like many communities around the world, in Povoado Bar da Hora we seek access to clean water, economic opportunities, safe environments for our children, lifelong learning, a sense of community, and a voice in decisions that affect our lives. We have developed a series of initiatives that help pave the way to building a sustainable community aligned with these essential goals.
The initiative of Povoado Bar da Hora and its sustainable tourism has won the prestigious Braztoa Sustainability Award 2024. We were one of the four winners among more than 86 initiatives from all over Brazil. Congratulations to all tourism entrepreneurs and residents of the village for embracing the concept of Community-Based Tourism.
belonging and the caiçara identidy
The importance of belonging and the caiçara identity in Povoado Bar da Hora is fundamental for community solidarity and cultural preservation. These values strengthen community bonds, promoting a life in harmony with nature and keeping ancestral traditions alive. The caiçara identity not only enriches the visitors' experience but also ensures that economic development is supported by a solid and respectful cultural foundation, where every community member feels valued and integrated.
In Povoado Bar da Hora, this rich culture is symbolized by the intimacy and conservation of the environment, artisanal fishing, and cassava cultivation.
Photo: Caiçara and its fish
composting e Biodigesters
The implementation of composters and biodigesters has transformed organic waste management in the community. The composters convert solid waste into organic fertilizer, enriching community gardens and promoting local agriculture without the need for chemical agents. Biodigesters, in turn, convert organic waste into biogas, used as a clean energy source in local restaurants, and produce nutrient-rich effluents used as natural fertilizers. These practices not only reduce environmental impact but also strengthen the circular economy and self-sufficiency of the village.
Photo: Female entrepreneur and owner of a biodigester that produces biogas.
Mangrove Reforestation
The mangrove reforestation along the banks of the Preguiças River is a vital initiative for the recovery and preservation of local ecosystems. This effort brings together inns and restaurants and aims to protect coastal areas from erosion while creating essential habitats for a wide range of marine species.
Mangroves serve as nurseries for fish and crustaceans, directly supporting local fishing — a key part of the community’s economy. Additionally, the initiative promotes environmental education and community engagement by involving schools, tourists, and volunteers in planting seedlings.
This collective effort ensures a sustainable and resilient future for present and future generations, reinforcing the importance of environmental preservation.
Photo: Local involved in the mangrove reforestation
Sustainable Broom Factory in Bar da Hora
