Objetive 1: Research
In the project, we conducted various studies on the great natural and cultural wealth of the Yucatán Peninsula, documenting species of flora and fauna, tropical forest management, and related local knowledge. Additionally, we prepared an interactive map featuring local initiatives that promote the sustainable use of biocultural heritage. To support decision-making and strengthen collective knowledge, we organized gatherings of representatives from rural communities, academia, and government authorities through socialization workshops.
Objetive 2:
Strengthening the local economy through rural ventures.
The project supports community ventures that make sustainable use of tropical forests to develop their products and services. To achieve this, we carried out a diagnosis of each initiative, based on which we designed business plans and provided training tailored to their specific needs. In this way, we strengthen their productive and economic capacities, which in turn reinforces environmental conservation and the local knowledge that makes it possible.
Objective 3: Scientific Outreach
In order to bring the knowledge generated by this project to more people, we developed freely downloadable outreach materials. We created books, an interactive map, audiovisual capsules, infographics, and an awareness campaign aimed at rural communities, residents of nearby cities, and decision-makers. Some materials are translated into Mayan and English. Through these actions, we aim to share the immense value of tropical forests and local knowledge, promoting their care and strengthening across various sectors of society.
Ceiba
In Mayan culture, the ceiba or ya'ax che' is the sacred tree that connects the underworld, the earth, and the heavens. It represents the center of the universe and serves as a spiritual axis through which souls ascend to higher levels.
Source: Becquelin, P. (1995). L’axe vertical dans la cosmologie maya. Trace (28), 53-59. https://trace.org.mx/index.php/trace/article/view/1183/1121
ENES Mérida
The National School of Higher Studies Mérida Unit (ENES Mérida) of the National Autonomous University of Mexico aims to train professionals with a profile that integrates technical-scientific and humanistic excellence, with a flexible and innovative education that promotes ethical conduct. Its academic staff engage in high-level teaching, research, and technological development in an interdisciplinary manner, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge and culture, fostering critical thinking and a commitment to the development and well-being of the country and the region.
It serves as the executing agency of the project, providing institutional and academic support. The general coordinator, researchers, and students are affiliated with ENES Mérida.
https://enesmerida.unam.mx/
ITTO
The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) is an intergovernmental organization that promotes the conservation and sustainable management of tropical forests. ITTO is a practice- and action-oriented organization with over 30 years of experience. It has financed and supported the implementation of more than 1,200 projects and other activities addressing numerous aspects of sustainable forest management, such as forest restoration; efficient wood utilization; biodiversity conservation; climate change mitigation and adaptation; the role of non-timber forest products and environmental services; and the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities.
ITTO chose to support and promote this project, securing funding from the Government of Japan and providing full oversight and the institutional framework to make this project possible.
https://www.itto.int/
ITTO chose to support and promote this project, securing funding from the Government of Japan and providing full oversight and the institutional framework to make this project possible.
CONAFOR
The National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR) aims to develop, promote, and support productive, conservation, and restoration activities in the forestry sector, as well as to participate in the formulation of plans and programs and the implementation of sustainable forest development policy. CONAFOR represents Mexico before the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO).
It selected and endorsed this project to present it to ITTO, in addition to providing support and follow-up.
https://www.gob.mx/conafor
Government of Japan
The Government of Japan funds the project through its voluntary contributions via the International Tropical Timber Organization.
We deeply appreciate its generosity and sensitivity toward Mayan culture and tropical forests.
Gathering "Communities and the Forest: Challenges and Opportunities
February 7, 2025
The gathering took place at the Great Museum of the Maya World, bringing together representatives from four of the study communities, students and researchers from ENES Mérida involved in the project, and representatives from various government institutions related to forest matters, such as the National Forestry Commission (at both national and state levels), the Environmental Secretariats, and the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas.
This first gathering focused on the theme “Communities and the Forest: Challenges and Opportunities.” Working groups were held with participation from all attendees to explore different conceptions and relationships with the tropical forest or “monte.” The event also featured remote pa
Gathering "Cities in the Jungle and Sustainable Ventures"
March 14, 2025
The gathering took place at the Great Museum of the Maya World, bringing together representatives from four of the study communities, students and researchers from ENES Mérida involved in the project, and representatives from various government institutions related to forest topics such as the National Forestry Commission (at both national and state levels), the Environmental Secretariats, and the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas.
This second gathering focused on the theme “Cities in the Jungle and Sustainable Ventures.” Working groups were held with participation from all attendees to explore the relationships between rural and urban contexts. The event also featured remote participation by M.A. Ryuichi Yahagi, a researcher at Universidad Veracruzana.
Agreement Signatories
