Machu Picchu, the first climate-neutral wonder of the world
On June 27, 2024, the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu in Peru was once again certified as the first carbon-neutral UNESCO World Heritage Site. The legendary ruined city owes this in part to our Green PearlsⓇ partner Inkaterra.
CO2 reduction and waste prevention in Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the main attraction in Peru, indeed one of the biggest sights in all of South America. However, due to mass tourism, the Inca site at over 2,400 meters was in such poor condition that UNESCO added it to the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger in 2016.
This prompted Inkaterra, which owns the sustainable Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, to become involved in its preservation. They are especially committed to reducing waste.
The following have been built with Inkaterra's involvement
- A biodiesel plant
- A PET compactor
- Organic waste treatment plant
- Two glass crushers
Working with the local community and other businesses, waste separation points have been set up throughout the community and 6,596 trees have been planted.
In 2021, Machu Picchu was designated as the first carbon-neutral Wonder of the World, and the certificate was renewed in 2024. For its significant involvement in this project, Inkaterra is currently one of four finalists for the Virtuoso Sustainability Award 2024 in the "Protecting the Planet" category.