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Produce your own fuel and potable water! As part of our Biogas Course Series, IRRI-Mexico is offering an opportunity to receive professional training in biodigester systems, including the installation of a working system at a local family farm in our first workshop in Jalisco, Mexico. Included as well is theory and site evaluation of a number of sites for effective rainwater harvesting systems, from homes to large buildings.

Biodigesters breakdown organic waste into a high quality soil amendment and produce biogas which can be used for cooking, heating, and producing electricity. Small systems can often generate all of a family's cooking and heating energy needs and provide significant health benefits by improving indoor air quality. Replacing trees and petroleum based fuel as the main energy source will help alleviate environmental and financial strains in the region.

Installing a proven biodigester system utilized throughout the world, the course will provide the scientific processes behind the system, the ability to assess sites, create material lists, construct a biodigester, and tie in a reservoir, piping, and cooking systems. The systems will be installed for families in the region and overcoming the unique challenges of each home will reinforce the critical concepts of the systems and provide skills you can take home with you. In addition to the course and installations, plan to experience the cultural backdrop and the abundant recreational opportunities available in the region.

• Biodigestor science
• Biodigestor Site assessment
• Biodigestor Construction and Materials
• Cooking Systems
• Theory and Design basics of rain-water harvesting systems
• Materials and equipment necessary for water systems
• General water quality indicators
• Site assessment of homes and buildings

• Appropriate Technology for the Developing World
• Renewable Energy for the Developing World
• Renewable Energy for the Developing World -- Hands On

Workshops begin at 9 am unless otherwise noted. Please show up at 8:30 am the first day.