Project
Alliance for the Sierra Gorda
In 1987, this beautiful mountainous area in the heart of the Mexican state of Querétaro was under threat. Marginalised communities had no choice but to cut down trees, plant corn and hunt to survive.
Preserving the diverse biosphere
Through the untiring efforts of citizens, in particular co-founder Martha Pati Ruiz Corzo, this alliance has revolutionised the way in which the local community protects its biosphere. As part of the Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda, members focus on promoting economic development while fostering biodiversity. How? Through educational programmes, awareness raising, ecotourism, and financing for micro-enterprises and conservation projects.
Today, the Sierra Gorda is part of UNESCO’s world network of biosphere reserves. Its 367,000 hectares are home to 1,718 vascular plant species and 124 species of macro mushrooms, as well as sheltering a multitude of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.
Sustainable development for new economic opportunities
The Alliance for the Sierra Gorda has also contributed to the region’s economic development by supporting entrepreneurs with training, equipment, infrastructure and publicity. They also have access to community eco-tourism services and take part in projects like reforesting and building gardens.
The Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda remunerates 64 forest landowners for environmental services. Between 2014 and 2018, carbon capture totalled 107,222 tonnes and, in 2020 alone, more than 30,000 trees were planted.
Although reductions in federal government funding and the Covid-19 pandemic have led to significant losses, the alliance remains committed to finding solutions. Would you like to help them?
Project began: 05/12/1987
Leading organisation: Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda
The country where the team is based: Mexico
Theme: Biodiversity, Education for Sustainable Development, Hydrology, Local and Indigenous Knowledge, Sustainable Tourism
Sub-themes: Agriculture, Climate change, Environment, Food and food security, Forests and desertification, Gender equality and women's empowerment, Natural disasters risk reduction, Natural resource management, Natural resource management, Poverty and inequality reduction, Sustainable lifestyles, Waste management, Water sanitation
Tag: #Women #Youth
Project needs:
- Communication strategy design
- Crowdfunding
- Digital communication
- Graphic design
- In search of financial partners
- Monitoring and evaluation
- Partnerships development
- Press relations
- Social Media
- Sponsorship/ Philanthropy
- Translations services
- Discover
