A Celebration of Environmental Consciousness
Earth Day is right around the corner. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd with a range of events taking place globally. In this article we will outline Mexico’s participation in celebrating the Earth. You can use this as an opportunity to expand your sustainability knowledge.
Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, holds significant importance in Mexico as citizens and organizations come together to honor and protect the planet. Mexico’s dedication to environmental awareness and sustainability shines through various activities and initiatives that take place on this day. Overall, Mexico is also a global leader in some areas of ecosystem protection.
Historical Context
Earth Day was first celebrated in the United States in 1970, and it has since become a global event. Mexico officially joined the movement in the 1990s, recognizing the importance of preserving its rich biodiversity and natural resources. The country’s involvement has grown over the years, showcasing a commitment to environmental protection.
Mexico and the environment
Mexico is a country with megadiversity. As its biological diversity is seriously threatened, the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity are priorities in Mexico. Recognition of the interrelationship between human health and the environment is vital. Greater environmental responsibility must be promoted to encourage actions for environment sustainability.
Transformative action to move towards sustainability can be fostered through this recognition of the different realities. As such, official campaigns and projects in Mexico promote education of the relationship between society and nature and social transformation.
Earth Day Cultural Events and Festivities
Earth Day celebrations in Mexico promote an increase in knowledge about the environment and address biodiversity loss, deforestation, water shortage, and other challenges.
Earth Day in Mexico is marked by various cultural events and festivities that celebrate the country’s natural beauty and heritage. Music concerts, art exhibitions, and film screenings often focus on themes related to the environment and conservation.
The Blue Planet Festival takes place April 21st in downtown Mexico City, in the Plaza Manuel Tolsá. Admission is free to the public. The festival aims to highlight the importance of the conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems and connect people with marine nature. Various environmental organizations in Mexico participate to raise awareness and promote actions in favor of conservation and nature protection.
The festival promotes learning and raising awareness about the great influence that the oceans have on people’s daily lives. There are educational and interactive activities. The Blue Planet Festival is organized by the organization Costa Salvaje.
Traditional Celebrations
Many Earth Day events incorporate traditional Mexican elements, such as indigenous ceremonies and rituals that honor the earth. These cultural celebrations highlight the deep-rooted connection between Mexico’s heritage and its commitment to environmental protection.
Mexican Government Environmental Efforts
Several national programs are implemented to coincide with Earth Day, including reforestation projects, clean-up drives, and awareness campaigns. These programs aim to reduce the environmental footprint and foster a culture of conservation among citizens.
Ocean and Marine Life Protection in Mexico
Mexico ranks first in having the highest percentage of marine protected area. Mexico is first in the world for having the largest area of marine protected areas, according to the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2018, conducted by Yale and Columbia Universities.
Mexico more than doubles (22.3%) the marine protected area under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
In addition, 92% of the Mexican islands are within Natural Protected Areas.
Revillagigedo National Park is considered the largest fully protected marine area in North America. Other natural protected areas in Mexico include the Deep Mexican Pacific Biosphere Reserve, the Mexican Caribbean Biosphere Reserve, and the Pacific Islands Biosphere Reserve of the Baja California Peninsula.
The Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino is located in Baja California Sur, south of the Baja California peninsula, Mexico, between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California. Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaíno: Mexico – All México (allmexico.store)
Earth Day reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect the environment and ensure a healthy planet for the future. Caring for the oceans is an integral part of this commitment.
Furthermore, climate change, resulting in rising water temperatures and ocean acidification, also has devastating effects on marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs, which are vital to many marine species.
In Mexico, 100% of the coral reefs of the Mexican Caribbean reef system are protected.
Mexico is a leader in the protection of marine ecosystems that are extremely valuable to the environment.
Mexico as a Clean Energy Powerhouse
Given its resource potential in world-class renewable energy and its low cost of renewable energy generation, Mexico is positioned to become a clean energy powerhouse. There is rapid growth in renewable energy deployment in Mexico.
Solar Energy in Mexico
Solar resources in Mexico are also among the best in the world, as Mexico’s annual daily solar irradiance averages 300 days of sunshine per year.
The Government of Mexico has helped to support the development of solar generation across the country. Currently, there are more than 60 utility-scale solar parks across 15 states in Mexico. In addition, the Government of Mexico has proposed a large solar project in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, one of the world’s best regions for solar power generation.
In addition, the Mexican government also offers several subsidies for solar energy systems. It is expected that the market for residential rooftop solar installations will continue to grow. This may help in tackling blackouts in regions with high risk of power outages. The Mexican government’s continued focus on corporate sustainability will also continue to support strong demand for solar power in Mexico.
It is expected that solar energy in Mexico will make up roughly 6% to 7% of energy consumption by 2030, supporting the Mexican government’s aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Mexico has a well-developed solar power industry that is expected to grow in the next decade.
Wind Energy in Mexico
Worldwide, Mexico is one of the countries with the greatest potential for generating electricity from wind. Wind energy is a clean and renewable source. It is non-polluting, inexhaustible, and indigenous. The Mexican states of Oaxaca, Yucatán and Tamaulipas have recorded wind speeds greater than eight meters per second (8 m/s).
Studies also estimate a wind potential in Mexico of around 70,000 megawatts (MW), an amount equal to energy that is currently produced in Mexico by all available methods.
In Mexico, there are 50 wind farms in operation. Most of them operate in the state of Oaxaca. Wind energy is produced in 13 states of Mexico, including Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, and Nuevo León.
Lastly, Mexico holds the world record for the lowest cost of the world’s lowest-cost wind projects. Mexico also promotes a Clean Energy Certificate.
Efforts to promote environmental measures
In addition, the Mexican government plays a crucial role in Earth Day celebrations and efforts. Various campaigns are launched to educate the public about environmental issues such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change. Government offices collaborate with schools, universities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to promote sustainable practices and conservation efforts.
Efforts by the Mexican Government to promote environmental measures:
- Ensure that every person in Mexico exercises his/her right to a healthy environment and lives in a safe environment.
- Guarantee access to clean water.
- Protect the richness of natural, biological, and cultural heritage.
- Strengthen climate action.
Some environmental activities proposed by the Mexican Government include:
School Activities
- Form school environmental committees.
- Develop a platform of socio-environmental problems and generate proposals for action.
- Organize school environmental fairs.
- Promote barter markets.
- Develop posters.
- Promote school gardens.
Home Activities
- Save water and energy.
- Consume only what is necessary.
- Buy and consume local products.
Community Activities
- Share information with family and neighbors.
- Organize groups to improve green areas.
- Promote urban gardens.
- Promote pollinator gardens.
Why is Earth Day celebrated?
Earth Day started as an environmental movement in 1970 and is celebrated on April 22nd each year. The negative effects of pollution on human health and the planet are evident and alarming. Earth Day is a celebration in favor of planet Earth. It is vital to promote greater environmental responsibility and encourage actions for the sustainability of the environment. We can contribute to the preservation of our natural environment. Earth Day serves as a call to action to work towards a more sustainable future with nature.
Read further about environmental Mexican organizations that promote nature protection.
Environmental Organizations in Mexico that promote Nature Protection
These are some organizations in Mexico that promote environmental awareness, ecosystem conservancy, and nature protection. We invite you to learn more about them.
Non-Governmental Organizations
NGOs are at the forefront of Earth Day activities in Mexico. Organizations such as Greenpeace Mexico, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Mexico, and local conservation groups organize events that draw attention to pressing environmental issues. These events often include workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs that educate the public and promote sustainable living.
Community Engagement
Local communities across Mexico actively participate in Earth Day activities. Neighborhood associations, community centers, and volunteers organize clean-up drives, tree planting events, and educational workshops to promote environmental stewardship.
Grassroots movements play a pivotal role in engaging citizens at the local level. These movements often address specific environmental issues within their communities, such as waste management, water conservation, and protection of local wildlife.
NGOs engage with local communities, encouraging them to participate in Earth Day activities. These initiatives often focus on practical solutions to environmental problems, such as recycling, energy conservation, and sustainable agriculture.
Educational Institutions
Schools and universities across Mexico play a vital role in Earth Day celebrations. Educational institutions host various activities, including lectures, exhibitions, and science fairs, to raise awareness among students about the importance of environmental stewardship.
Student Involvement
Students are encouraged to take part in Earth Day events, often leading clean-up drives, tree planting activities, and other environmental projects. These activities not only educate young people but also empower them to become active participants in the fight against climate change.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Media outlets in Mexico play a significant role in Earth Day celebrations by broadcasting special programs and documentaries that highlight environmental issues. Social media campaigns further amplify the message, reaching a wider audience and encouraging community participation.
Broadcasting Environmental Messages
Television, radio, and online platforms share stories of successful conservation efforts, provide information on how to live sustainably, and highlight the importance of protecting natural resources. These messages aim to inspire individuals to take action and contribute to the collective effort to preserve the planet.
Environmental Challenges
Yet, Mexico faces several environmental challenges that Earth Day initiatives aim to address. Issues such as deforestation, water scarcity, pollution, and loss of biodiversity require concerted efforts from the government, organizations, and citizens.
Addressing Deforestation
Deforestation is a significant concern, particularly in regions like the Yucatán Peninsula and Chiapas. Earth Day activities often include reforestation projects and conservation programs to combat the loss of forests and promote sustainable land use.
Water Conservation in Mexico
Water scarcity is another critical issue in Mexico. Earth Day campaigns emphasize the importance of conserving water resources through efficient usage, protection of watersheds, and promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.
Conclusion
Earth Day in Mexico is a testament to the country’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainability. Through the combined efforts of the government, NGOs, educational institutions, businesses, and local communities, Mexico continues to raise awareness and take action to protect the planet. As citizens celebrate Earth Day, they reaffirm their commitment to preserving the natural beauty and resources that make Mexico unique.
Author: AllMexico.store
Watch this video of Omar Menchaca as he picks up litter along the Xochimilco water canals in Mexico City. Limpia en canoa canales de Xochimilco
Resources
Mexican Government
Did You Know?
Currently, Mexico has 182 Natural Protected Areas, covering more than 90 million hectares dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity. 37 of these protected areas are marine and coastal areas with over 600,000 km2.
