At Ombria lies a genuine commitment to sustainability, to take into account our economic, environmental and social responsibilities in order to pioneer a naturally exceptional development in harmony with the surrounding landscape and local communities of the Algarvian Barrocal.
Alongside creating vital infrastructure, improving accessibility and generating new jobs and business opportunities, we see ourselves as a member of a larger community, supporting several sports and cultural local associations and entities throughout nearby towns and villages.
By adopting a transparent policy on all these issues, implementing fair and sustainable trade practices, supporting local contractors, and running awareness-raising campaigns encouraging respect for nature, our local heritage, culture, and communities, we aim to live here in the same harmony as our neighbouring villages.
Principles of sustainability were applied to the design and attributes of every building found at Ombria.
Bioclimatic architecture, both innovative and traditional, allows for energy to be conserved wherever possible, using age-old Algarvian build methods and locally sourced materials perfectly adapted to the climate.
Based on the principles of bioclimatic architecture, the building design and architecture at Ombria employs the use of both locally inspired regional elements and locally sourced natural materials, leading to an overall reduction of energy consumption and environmental footprint.
Our pioneering, low-impact near-to-surface geothermal system works by transferring the geothermal heat to pumped water through the ground and, in combination with reverse heat pumps, used for climate control, both cooling or heating.
A clean, round-the-clock renewable energy source free of risk for ourselves and our neighbours.
With over 320 days of sunshine a year, developing solar technology is important for the future of the Algarve.
Supporting the geothermal system for climate control and outdoor pool heating will be a network of vacuum solar panels to harness this abundant natural resource.
Our sustainable, highly efficient HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system was designed to prove adaptable and flexible to the characteristics of Algarve’s climate.
By also minimising its local impact, residents and guests will benefit from the naturally pure air of our location without compromising on its peace and tranquillity.
By carefully considering water management across the site of Ombria, we were able to minimise water consumption and also develop a specially designed pumping system that will store and distribute naturally replaced rainwaters.
Rainwater collected by the ditches alongside our roads, streets and car parking areas will be channelled towards a storage lake on the 18th hole of the golf course and used for irrigation and landscaping by sophisticated, energy-efficient pumps that will save water and electricity by around 15%.
Lighting for both public spaces and interiors have been carefully selected to minimise energy consumption and maximise lifespan – with all installations using LED technology.
Photoelectric sensors also help to maximise energy efficiency with centralised control systems for indoor and outdoor lighting that follow changes in daylight, weather and occupancy.
Public and private parking spaces will all have electric vehicle charge points available, with a total of 22 individual access points.
Separating waste will be made easy for guests, residents and staff with eco-points and recycling bins available inside and out – helping to promote a culture of organised recycling throughout the resort.
As we promote the unique region of the Algarve and partner with the local community, we are also creating a safe space for all the biodiversity within Ombria.
By building a plant nursery we are ensuring the development and growth of local species and working towards the preservation of the existing flora and fauna.
Our Golf Course was recognised with a GEO Foundation certification, showing and outlining the ways in which the construction of the golf development, from construction to design, has benefited local communities and the environment.
Our commitment to the utmost respect of our surroundings is part of a larger responsibility to ensure that golf at Ombria also benefits the stunning landscapes and vibrant community we play alongside.
Ombria Algarve has officially become a member of the Business Council for Sustainable Development (BCSD) as a statement of its commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible business practices to drive positive change within the tourism and real estate sectors. By joining BCSD, the resort aims to further integrate sustainability into its operations, aligning with international standards and best practices to reinforce its dedication to sustainable development.
Our sustainable values have been guiding principles from the initial development concept through to design, construction and operational procedures. At every step, the impact each decision will have upon our environment and surroundings has always been the most important factor in determining the way ahead.
With a specially designed infrastructure in place, we will minimise the use of natural resources and thus the environmental impact, and help preserve the unique local biodiversity of the region – with our use of an innovative near-to-surface geothermal energy system already pioneering the technology for sustainable real estate in Portugal.
