San Pablo

San Pablo, Tacana is a village in Guatemala of about 800 citizens. The village has a history of community and social stability, making it inviting for the Guateca program. Nestled in the mountains, San Pablo’s terraced hillside is litter-free and luscious. The community emphasizes education thanks to a strong K-12 school system. Additionally, hands on experiences offered in weekend workshops.
Currently San Pablo is building homes inefficiently. Current building materials include corrugated steel, wood, CMU blocks, adobe. These materials are found cheap yet do not respond to the environment of San Pablo and create uncomfortable environments.

Building Issues San Pablo Faces

Above are current building practices in San Pablo. These construction methods are unsustainable and inefficient.

• Warmth (Heat Retention)

• Light

• Energy Use

• Technology

• Structural Integrity

• Cost

• Resources

• Location/Topography

• Earthquakes

The Guateca Program

A cross cultural experience designed to educate with environmental awareness. For more see the /guateca page.

Five Appropriate Technologies
The 2012 Guateca Team invented and implemented five appropriate technologies in the Demonstration House designed to improve effiency, comfort and quality of life.