The Eco-Retreat has been built to stunning designs, using environmentally friendly construction techniques. A Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) signed by Gamspirit and Kartong Village Development Committee (VDC) requires that 70% of the staff employed on building and operating the Eco-Retreat should be local craftsmen. Materials used in the development are sourced locally - from within 5KM of the site.

Minimal use is made of cement and wood and the lodges are constructed using compressed stabilised earth blocks that are made with a machine imported from India. This technology is previously unknown in The Gambia and two Gambians were trained in Auroville (in Tamil Nadu, India ) in the design and building of domes and vaults.

The lodges also incorporate many alternative technologies including solar water heaters, solar electricity, gray water recycling, rainwater harvesting and composting toilets.

In the last two years 5000 (five thousand ) trees have been planted on site including fast growing Malina and many species of hardwood trees (mahogany, teak, silk cotton and iron wood ). The conservation and development of the bush surrounding the Eco-Retreat will encourage an already diverse and extensive wildlife and bird watchers will enjoy bird walks and hides nestled in the bush.