VIVE PARACAS

Location

Paracas
Ica
Peru

Project Size
3.05 acres
Project type
Mixed Use
Site Context
Suburban
Former Land Use
Greenfield
Terrestrial Biome
Deserts and Xeric Shrublands
Project overview

The VIVE PARACAS project is a pioneering sustainable urban development in South America, located in the beautiful region of Paracas, Peru. This project, developed by CONVIVE Grupo Inmobiliario, not only redefines the concept of sustainable living but also sets a new standard for urban developments in the region. Designed and developed with a comprehensive focus on resource optimization, ecological system preservation, and the enhancement of community quality of life, VIVE PARACAS will be developed in three stages, integrating all necessary services for families, including shopping centers, educational and technological facilities, sports areas, and a clubhouse. This first stage of development included the development of parks and greenspaces.

Thanks to the sustainability consultancy by SUMAC, VIVE PARACAS has implemented various sustainability strategies and metrics that have been crucial for obtaining SITES Silver certification on its initial green spaces. These include:

  • Efficient Water Management: A 71% reduction in irrigation was achieved by using native and xerophytic plants and incorporating efficient irrigation technologies. Additionally, 100% of potable water use for irrigation was avoided by implementing wastewater collection and reuse systems.
  • Conservation of Natural Resources: Use of sustainable and local construction materials, preservation of native vegetation and threatened species, design for adaptability, and dismantling at least 60% of the incorporated design elements allow for a reduction in the consumption of non-renewable materials in the future. Furthermore, 43% of materials used were regionally sourced, encouraging the local market, promoting regional identity, and reducing energy use for transportation.
  • Reduction of Environmental Impact: Infrastructure design that minimizes the carbon footprint and promotes sustainable mobility, such as bicycle lanes and pedestrian areas, reducing CO2 emissions. Sustainable construction practices were also implemented, diverting more than 90% of construction and demolition waste from landfills. A plan was implemented to minimize the use of fertilizers and pesticides and to protect air quality during landscape maintenance through the exclusive use of manual tools. Lastly, outdoor energy consumption was reduced by 61%, and efforts were made to avoid the heat island effect.
  • Biodiversity Conservation: Altered soils were restored, biomass index increased, light pollution reduced, and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke avoided.
  • Recreational Parks with Native and Xerophytic Plants: Creation of ecological corridors and recreational spaces that help mental restoration, promote physical activity, and encourage social connection, as well as connecting residents with nature.

The proposed strategies aim to increase ecosystem benefits, offering advantages such as:

  • Healthy air quality.
  • Regulation of local temperature, precipitation, and humidity.
  • Reduction of pollutants in air, water, and soil.
  • Greater control over erosion and sediment.
  • Reproduction of crops and plants.
  • Shelter and habitat for plants and animals, contributing to biodiversity conservation.
  • Physical, mental, and social well-being through interaction with nature.
  • Satisfying cultural, educational, aesthetic, and spiritual experiences.
  • Reduction of the urban heat island effect through highly reflective roofing and paving materials in the hardscape.

These efforts not only benefit the environment but also improve the quality of life for residents by providing a healthy, safe, and ecologically responsible environment.

VIVE PARACAS represents a milestone for the community by being a model of sustainable development that balances modern construction with the preservation of the natural environment of the Paracas desert. This project not only improves the quality of life for its inhabitants but also sets a new standard of sustainability in the region, serving as an example for future developments.

Obtaining the SITES certification was crucial for VIVE PARACAS for several reasons. First, it underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, aspects that are fundamental to our vision and mission as developers. Second, the SITES Silver certification provides an internationally recognized framework that ensures our practices meet the highest sustainability standards. Additionally, the SITES certification allows us to demonstrate to our stakeholders, including future residents and the community at large, that VIVE PARACAS is a project that not only seeks excellence in terms of design and comfort but also prioritizes the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants.