# Reciprocal Environmental Facilities 'El Humidal' is a Research Center in Santa Maria, Mexico By Joey Haar | Published 2018-05-15 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/el-humidal References: [archdaily](https://www.archdaily.com/894278/el-humedal-taar-taller-de-arquitectura-de-alto-rendimiento) In performing environmental research, it's crucial that that research doesn't itself have a negative effect on the environment, and 'El Humidal' is a facility that strives to create a system of reciprocity between the researchers and their subject. The [wetland research center](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boathouse-zuka) analyses, documents, and processes the surrounding forests in order to better understand them. El Humidal is designed to have a virtually non-existent impact on the forest. It was created under the principles of [zero waste and net-zero carbon](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/picoplanktonics), so it self-generates all the resources that the it and the people living and working there require. It actually contributes to the environment as well thanks to an [edible forest, constructed wetland, and orchard](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/living-sphere) all maintained by the researchers. Image Credit: Rafael Gamo ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.9/10 - Popularity: 53% | Activity: 26% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) > [Eco Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/ecoarchitecture) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Reciprocal Environmental Facilities:** Opportunity to create facilities that have a virtually non-existent impact on the environment and actively contribute to the surrounding ecosystem through sustainable practices. - **Zero Waste Principles:** Opportunity to implement zero waste principles in various industries, aiming to self-generate resources and reduce environmental impact. - **Edible Forests and Orchards:** Opportunity to incorporate edible forests and orchards as sustainable and productive spaces that benefit both the environment and its caretakers. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Environmental Research:** Opportunity for environmental research facilities to adopt reciprocal practices and strive for zero waste, net-zero carbon operations. - **Sustainable Agriculture:** Opportunity for agriculture industry to incorporate edible forests and orchards, creating sustainable and productive landscapes. - **Sustainable Tourism:** Opportunity for tourism industry to offer reciprocal environmental facilities that minimize negative impact and provide immersive, eco-friendly experiences for visitors. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Community-Made Eco Campuses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wolves-lane-centre.md) - [Rustic Ruin-Inspired Aquariums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-sea-of-cortez-research-center.md) - [Bamboo Forest Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/amazon-rainforest-pavilion.md) - [Eco-Focused Family Housing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rewild-homes.md) - [Hydro-Positive Microhomes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/living-on-groundwater.md) - [Biomaterial Interior Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spring-studio.md) - [Wind-Responsive Panel Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/national-biodiversity-pavilion.md) - [Pool Reinvention Campuses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/waltham-forest-college.md) - [Lakeside Lab Hub Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boathouse-zuka.md)