Water & Sanitation Internship (In-person)

location
2 - 26 weeks  Â·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Outstanding 4.9  Â· 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Good response rate

Highlights

  • Enhance your CV and gain professional hands-on experience managing sustainable projects in an international development NGO, having a real positive impact on a vulnerable community.
  • Work alongside experienced & passionate people from a range of disciplines & backgrounds.
  • Live and work in a surfing paradise in northern Peru, the land of endless summer

Highlights

  • Enhance your CV and gain professional hands-on experience managing sustainable projects in an international development NGO, having a real positive impact on a vulnerable community.
  • Work alongside experienced & passionate people from a range of disciplines & backgrounds.
  • Live and work in a surfing paradise in northern Peru, the land of endless summer
  • Learn and practice Spanish in a semi-rural Peruvian community.


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    EcoSwell needs volunteers to develop sanitation initiatives such as dry toilets and wastewater treatment projects in northern Peru.

    EcoSwell is a surfing-inspired sustainable development non-profit (NGO) driving the development of poor Peruvian coastal communities through a path of sustainability. We develop environmental, educational, infrastructure and socio-economic projects working hand in hand with local communities and ...

    About the program

    EcoSwell is a surfing-inspired sustainable development non-profit (NGO) driving the development of poor Peruvian coastal communities through a path of sustainability. We develop environmental, educational, infrastructure and socio-economic projects working hand in hand with local communities and international volunteer interns.

    Water is a scarce resource in Lobitos. Many families do not have access to flushing toilets and the local sewer system has been collapsed for years, exposing open drainage points that threaten the health of the local community. Therefore, there is an urgent need for alternative wastewater treatment and disposal methods. As an organization we have been working to improve the sanitation conditions here in Lobitos:

    • In 2015 we installed a biodigester at the artisanal Fisherman’s Guild, making the fishermen empowered leaders of this change. The biodigester treats wastewater and reuses it for irrigation purposes.

    • The construction of our dry toilet was completed in March 2018 which helps us to save water whilst producing fertiliser for the garden plants. In one year this unit has saved around 18,700 litres of freshwater and has produced around 800 litres of organic fertilizer (compost) for our reforestation efforts. We hope to make this dry sanitation widely available to the community in Lobitos through the construction of more public toilets.

    • We have developed a pilot desalination unit (Solar Distiller) for turning seawater into freshwater and are constantly improving it to turn it into a practical and viable solution for water access.

    • We are implementing bio-remediation/phytoremediation techniques using special plants (vetiver, Chrysopogon zizanioides) floating hydroponically to treat wastewater spills.

    • We are carrying out research into potential uses of groundwater as alternative water sources for reforestation and community use.

    We need hard-working volunteer interns with a strong interest and/or background knowledge in water management and sanitation to come and support us in these ongoing projects in northern Peru. 


    The financial contribution you make as an volunteer intern helps us plant a tree with community families in Lobitos with the volunteers at EcoSwell and the families engaging as well. 





    Typical day

    As a water & sanitation volunteer intern at EcoSwell, you will be given ownership of the projects, working alongside the community and the EcoSwell team. The daily activities will vary depending on the progress and stage we are at of each project. This may include but is not limited to:

    • Water ...

    Typical day

    As a water & sanitation volunteer intern at EcoSwell, you will be given ownership of the projects, working alongside the community and the EcoSwell team. The daily activities will vary depending on the progress and stage we are at of each project. This may include but is not limited to:

    • Water Treatment

    Besides the Solar Distiller, we are currently implementing the vetiver system (a special grass capable of water/soil treatment) to contain and removing toxicities & pathogens from wastewater spills which are prevalent in the towns of Piedritas and Lobitos where we work. Interns can get involved with the research and construction of more floating hydroponic devices for vetiver (pontoons) and other water treatment initiatives and technologies like solar distillers & biodigesters. 

    • Dry Toilet

    At the EcoSwell house we are using our dry toilet on a daily basis. Interns will be required to make improvements on the current design of our dry toilet or develop & initiate the expansion of more public dry toilets in the community.

    • Groundwater 

    Volunteer interns will also be able to get involved with our ongoing groundwater research for community use in Lobitos, as well as plan, design, test & implement potential applications.


    Free-time activities

    Volunteer interns work between 9am to 5pm on weekdays but evenings and weekends are free for you to spend as you wish. For those joining our in-person placement, the northern coast of Peru has amazing waves, beaches and towns to go visit, with lots of different activities on offer such as:

    • Surf ...

    Free-time activities

    Volunteer interns work between 9am to 5pm on weekdays but evenings and weekends are free for you to spend as you wish. For those joining our in-person placement, the northern coast of Peru has amazing waves, beaches and towns to go visit, with lots of different activities on offer such as:

    • Surf lessons with local instructors in Lobitos. Alternatively, rent one of our EcoSwell surfboards and head out to the waves by yourself.

    • Yoga classes

    • Swimming with turtles 

    • Fishing, sea-lion and whale watching trips with local fishermen

    • Trekking and birdwatching in the native Dry Forest ecosystem

    • Eat traditional Peruvian food at local restaurants 

    • Visits to other nearby beaches and towns within hours of Lobitos to explore more Peruvian landscapes, culture & history.

    Please note that these activities are separate and are not included in the financial contribution you make as part of the volunteer internship. 


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (fluently) or Spanish (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    Environmental Science, Engineering, Geography, Business/Marketing, International Development, Medicine and Conservation at University level

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    This volunteer internship is open to all disciplines, but is most suited for those interested in and/or have academic or professional experience in sanitation initiatives and sustainable development. However, we do also ask for: - Experience/motivation to work as part of a team away from home. - Open mind, positive attitude and will to learn!

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 17:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by EcoSwell

    Airport pickup, accommodation and food & drink are included in the fees.

    You can volunteer at the project site in Lobitos between 2 weeks and 14 weeks. EcoSwell will let you know about the final price during your application process.

    Deposit (18%)

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.

    Final Payment (82%)

    Your final payment will be agreed with EcoSwell during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

    The financial contribution you make as a volunteer intern helps funds our community projects and operations, it funds our impact. For every volunteer intern that joins our program, we also plant a tree with local families to help restore the degraded forest ecosystem found in our region.

    Airport Pickup at Captain FAP Victor Montes Arias Airport

    We will pick you up from Talara, the closest airport to Lobitos and drive you to the EcoSwell house by car.

    Accommodation

    In-person placement: During your volunteer internship with us, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in the EcoSwell House, including all meals (healthy and mostly vegetarian) and airport pickup/dropoff. This is included in your financial contribution. Volunteer interns sleep in shared dorm rooms with shared bathrooms and access to a shared living room, office space, kitchen, internet connection, clean water and a garden.

    Food & Beverages

    Peruvian food is categorised as some of the best in world. You’ll get all your meals included; breakfast, lunch and dinner, within the EcoSwell house as part of your contribution. 

    This includes, meats, fresh seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables, milk, coffee… you name it we have it, and more (as you’ll probably try new fruits you didn’t know existed). All food is bought weekly in the nearest city of Talara fresh from the markets and supermarkets. You will also get a chance to try out local cuisine in some of the restaurants in Lobitos.

    Of course we can cater for those with dietary requirements such as vegetarians and those with lactose intolerance, for example.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Captain FAP Victor Montes Arias Airport (TYL) in Talara. We assist you to find cheap flights to Peru. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Peru provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Peru you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Peru. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    This research internship is available all year round and you can join us any time. However, we do ask that you stay with us for a minimum of 2 weeks in order to have enough time to conduct sufficient research,  make an impact and get the most out of the experience. 

    It’s easy to get to Lobitos! There are daily flights from Lima to Talara where you will be met at the airport and driven directly to Lobitos.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    2 weeks (min. stay) 1,480€
    3 weeks 2,181€
    4 weeks 2,832€
    5 weeks 3,444€
    6 weeks 4,133€
    9 weeks 5,920€
    26 weeks (max. stay) 17,105€
    Average fees 698€/week

    Program fees

    698€ per week 2 - 26 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 26 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with EcoSwell during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    EcoSwell

    Outstanding 4.9 rating (15 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 2013

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Good response rate

    Coordinated by

    Michael

    About the project

    Sustainable development NGO driving the development of poor Peruvian coastal communities through a path of sustainability, improving the lives of the local population.

    Meet your organization

    What we do

    EcoSwell is a sustainable development non-profit (NGO) driving the development of poor Peruvian coastal communities through a path of sustainability, improving the quality of life of their inhabitants.

    As an NGO we develop educational, infrastructure, environmental, social and economic productivity programs working hand in hand with local communities and with international volunteers/interns. We take a “shared value” approach, working with the private, public, academic sectors and other NGO’s, to come up with relevant and lasting sustainable solutions. 

    Our approach towards sustainability consists of three pillars:

    • Nature conservation
    • Social justice
    • Economic well-being for all

    Where we operate

    We at EcoSwell currently operate in Lobitos, a Peruvian coastal northern town and surfing hotspot, which has seen an increase in uncontrolled tourism over the last 15 years. As a result of the town’s lack of infrastructure, lack of communication between stakeholders and lack of integrated development programs, this tourism is giving rise to various environmental, social and economic risks to the town’s long-term sustainability and wellbeing. Further to this Lobitos is a small town of approx 1,650 people where approximately 27% of the population live in poverty and 14% live in extreme poverty, that means less than 90 cents a day for all their needs.

    We are working to change this through a variety of programs from distinct disciplines to come up with innovative solutions.

    Our vision and long term objective

    The issues that we at EcoSwell see in Lobitos are not exclusive to the town, or to the north of Peru. They are global issues which are impacting various communities around the world. As such, by 2021, our vision is to make Lobitos a success story of coastal sustainability, where a respectful tourism industry can co-exist with the local community and the industries found within Lobitos. The long term objective of the organisation is to develop a sustainability framework which could be applied in other Peruvian coastal communities, based on our experience gained in Lobitos, and to communities around the world. 

    Who we are

    We believe that diversity breeds change, a positive one at that. As such EcoSwell is made up by a network of young professionals from a wide range of different professional disciplines, from environmentalists, to social scientists, engineers, lawyers, economists, athletes, language specialists and others. We believe that only through the wide perspectives all these different professions bring to the table, is the concept of sustainability attainable in the real world. We share and learn from each other and apply all of our expertise into coming up with relevant, realistic and applicable solutions to help us drive sustainability forwards and improve the lives of our beneficiaries.

    We have a team based in Lobitos permanently and a team based in the UK who provide technical and financial resources to our team on the ground. Our contributors and members are based all over the world.

    EcoSwell's story

    It all started with friendships and a surf trip. Four lifelong friends (our co-founders) travelled along the Peruvian coast in search of waves. One of the locations they went to, was the off the beaten track town of Lobitos. Whilst there they caught some of the best waves of their lives, met some of the kindest people imaginable and were exposed to breath-taking natural beauty and wildlife. Jacques Cousteau once said: "people conserve what they love" and the group of friends had fallen for Lobitos. Seeing the environmental and social constraints the town was enduring though, contrasting with the natural beauty of the locality made them realised that if nothing was done, Lobitos' essence would not endure for long. EcoSwell is the manifestation of this call to action. Since then, the EcoSwell family has grown from 4 members to nearly 20 from various nationalities, with operations expanding beyond Lobitos, to other surrounding towns. And to think that this is the beginning of our story... there is so much more to come.

    15 reviews Â· rating4.9

    IÂŽve traveled to Lobitos in January of 2017 to develop the project of "Dry Toilets". It was a great experience from start to end, the city is small and everyone greets constantly, the house is comfortable, spacious and really close to the beach, the weather was hot; perfect to start the day with a ...
    Arthur Gallois rating4.4

    2023 at Renewable Energy Internship (in-person)

    My experience with Ecoswell was exactly what I was hoping it would be, I learned so much in only one month, with amazing people. Plus, the work we were doing had a clear and concrete impact on the community, I definitely recommend ...
    Sten Lengsfeld rating5

    2021 at Renewable Energy Internship (in-person)

    My name is Sten Lengsfeld, I‘m from ZĂŒrich Switzerland and I was 19 during my internship at EcoSwell. I applied for a renewable energy internship, so I got to work on the development of a solar distiller together with other interns and the directors. But I got to work on various different ...
    I packaged my Master's learning and travelled to Lobitos to carry out my thesis research, which created a comparative tool to analyse the extent and nature of opportunity identification within multidisciplinary teams. Outside of this purpose I identified an opportunity to help Ecoswell after ...
    Frances Ramsay rating5

    2019 at Renewable Energy Internship (in-person)

    Upon reflection on my experience volunteering at EcoSwell, I think one of the most important things I learned that the way to create change is through sustainable maintenance of projects. Many NGOs in developing countries is that they tend to start projects, when volunteers come, and discontinue ...
    Joris Simaitis rating5

    2019 at Renewable Energy Internship (in-person)

    Lost. That’s how I felt during my third year of university. But I found EcoSwell’s volunteer internship program. I was determined. I have always had renewable energy and sustainability in my heart and it was time to take initiative. Here at EcoSwell I got to work on many incredible projects. I ...

    Location

    Americas > South America > Peru > Lobitos

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