An environmental education centre and eco-hostel managed by Friends of the Earth Spain has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability in a worldwide competition. As Corcerizas in Galicia, Spain was honoured in the contest organised by Hostelling International, the global network of youth hostels. The competition selected 15 hostels deeply committed to sustainability and encouraged the public to vote for their favourite who would then receive support for their further sustainability initiatives.
The venue finished second overall and received funding to enable them to construct a wind turbine. The hostel will be able to realise its long term goal of becoming an independent ‘energy island’ with 100% renewables.
Analia Moares, coordinator of As Corcerizas, said “This award recognises the work of all workers and volunteers for their professionalism, effort and motivation. This success demonstrates the viability of a centre which operates outside of the grid. We want to thank all the people who have supported As Corcerizas and have helped make our dream a reality.”
As Corcerizas is located in the Sierra de San Mamedes mountains of northern Spain. Two of the newest buildings were made according to the principles of bioclimatic architecture and mainly constructed from materials available in the locality. The hostel also demonstrates practical solutions for the sustainable management of food, waste and energy.
