Who is Marenal
Marenal, our sustainable intentional eco-community in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, was created by Franz Xaver Meier, a Bavarian-American and a small group of locals with deep roots in the region, who are committed to living sustainably above the tranquil shores of Lake Arenal. Franz was inspired by Lake Arenal’s natural beauty, where he envisioned a nature-based, sovereign community of friendly like-minded people living harmoniously within a healthy environment. Franz, now a full-time resident, continues to guide Marenal' s growth with care and dedication.
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Our community is for people seeking an escape from uncertainty in their home countries, retired persons, working digital nomads, and families who want to live in an active, peaceful eco-village, where their children can learn to respect all things natural. Simply said, Marenal is for people seeking a better life!
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We are a Voluntaryist Intentional Community whose members subscribe to Libertarian-Voluntaryist principles. These are described and explained in simple terms by Jack V. Lloyd in his "Definite Guide to Libertarian Voluntaryism" www.jackvlloyd.com and in a meaningful collection of essays in "The Voluntaryist Handbook" by Keith Knight libertarianinstitute.org All books are available on Amazon.
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We are a Sociocratic Community based on Consent-based decision making, meaning that any proposal to change our economic, environmental, and social goals must be accepted by all community partners, before any change can take effect.
To learn more about this system, we refer you to "Sociocracy For All" by Ted Rau. sociocracyforall.org
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We are a Sustainable Community for Liberty. The term emerged from the discourse on “sustainability” and “sustainable development”. It describes ”a place where people want to live and work, now and in the future”. We are also called an Intentional Community since many of our objectives overlap.
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We have Simple Rules and Regulations. Our "Guidelines, Rules and Regulations" have been written by the owner of Marenal. They are based on common sense and are deliberately short and to the point. Once the community members have formed the Marenal Partner Association (MPA) and its General Council ( the equivalence of a Board of Directors), the partners can then adapt the "GRRs" to any new or existing conditions.
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Our Mission
Our mission is to create our community as a motivating example for other Voluntaryist-Sociocratic Communities, while regenerating, improving and preserving our land.
Our Goals
Our goals are guided by our respect for all living things, the native ecosystem, and its rich biodiversity. We strive to:
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Protect and restore the environment by minimizing our ecological footprint and by promptly correcting any negative impact.
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Adopt energy-efficient practices by using construction methods that correspond with the demands of our location.
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Support the local economy by encouraging participation and fostering social entrepreneurship.
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Advance ecological knowledge through innovation in bio-culture, permaculture, aquaculture, and reforestation.
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Explore and cultivate native crops and medicinal plants to benefit both our community and the public.
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Provide educational opportunities for residents and the broader community.
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Inspire collaboration and mentorship by encouraging members to share their knowledge, experience, and talents, especially with younger generations.
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Move toward self-sufficiency by producing our own food, shelter, electricity, and other essential resources.
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Promote holistic well-being through education, science, the arts, history, health, spirituality, and personal growth.
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Become a well-functioning sociocratic community. ​
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Our Philosophy
Our philosophy is rooted in the promotion of life and the well-being of all living things through the preservation and regeneration of our ecosystem, and the protection of our youth, our animals, and ourselves. By fostering tolerance and diversity, our community cultivates an environment where everyone can grow and thrive.
Our principles are guided by Libertarian property rights and the Voluntaryist non-aggression theory. They should be the cornerstone of every individual's moral responsibility in our community.
We stand for and promote....​
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Self-Ownership
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The Non-Aggression Principle
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Property Rights
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Freedom of Association
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The Individual's Right to Choose
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Personal Responsibility
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Peaceful Dispute Resolution
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The Importance of Education, and
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The Advocacy of these Principles
Our mantra of Peace, Freedom, and Pura Vida embraces all of the above!
Meet the Team
Franz Xaver Meier | Founder
Successful business owner, Costa Rica lover and visionary dreamer. Defender of freedom of choice, and the non-aggression principal.
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Ariana Ugalde | Property Manager
Costa Rican native with over 15 years as Business Administrator for Marenal and GLP S.A (Ganadera Los Pilones). Dedicated to Marenal’ s growth and inspired by family, food, and fashion.
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Marlon Muñoz | Operations Manager
Born in Tronadora, on the other side of Lake Arenal, Marlon specializes in land management, agriculture, and precision mechanics. He oversees Marenal’ s grounds, livestock, and construction.
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Manuel Talavera | Construction Manager
Owner of Constructora y Remodelaciones Talavera Orozco S.A., Manuel brings decades of building experience to Marenal. Known for leadership and integrity, he oversees all construction operations.
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Kenneth Artavia Mora | Architect – Urban Planner
Licensed architect and urban planner (CFIA A-37226) with expertise in sustainable design and site management. A native of Arenal, Kenneth contributes deep local and environmental insight.
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