Each eco-region will have its own set of Sustainability Regulations and Guidelines that apply to all developing partners and businesses. The regulations are more than a legal instrument to ensure environmental values are secured over time, they are an essential part of the strategy to create a real sustainable eco-region and attract partners and visitors committed to the respect for the environment and local culture.

Developed by a team of sustainable architects, environmentally specialised engineers, legislators and environmental activists, the regulations intend to limit and take responsibility for the impact of the development of infrastructure and facilities. To support partners and businesses, comprehensive guidelines are created to illustrate how requirements can be implemented. Eco Regions will offer advice and will monitor performance over time.

The regulations and guidelines are divided in three parts, namely Design & Building, Landscape and Community:

Design & Building

Covers all matters related to building development. It promotes a design of minimum disturbance to the original site and imposes the application of passive design strategies and sustainable materials, also covering waste management, water and energy efficiency.

Landscape

Promotes a design for landscape protection, including regulations on soil and local biodiversity conservation. It offers examples and guidelines on water treatment and the use of renewables, health and safety standards and on limiting the disruption on the environment.

Community

Encourages a socially sustainable business code of conduct. It covers requirements to source locally, avoid unnecessary waste and products harmful to the environment and involves norms for joint ventures with the local community. It introduces a “Green Fee” to be allocated for education, environmental, health and other sustainability programs.