Environment Mexico Project #40150

Promote Ecological & Social Regeneration in Oaxaca

by Instituto de la Naturaleza y la Sociedad de Oaxaca, A.C.

Summary

The amazing bio- and etnical diversity of the State of Oaxaca is threatened. We can contribute to regenerate the social and environmental fabric in the Central Valleys through the example of El Pedregal education and demonstration center. At least 90 community families around Oaxaca City can start executing regeneration and sustainable production projects. We are searching for social synergies to enhance living conditions and protect biodiversity, including climate change adaptation measures

$13,000
total goal

$6,170
remaining

54
donors

0
monthly donors

3
months

Challenge

As we said, ecological and social importance of the region is widely recognized, but several processes affect the natural integrity and the livelihood of its inhabitants. Current government policies do not adequately address these problems. Problematic agricultural practices, particularly in the foothills that supply the city's water,combined with rapid deforestation and rapid population growth have led to declining agricultural production and livelihoods, stimulating migration to urban centers.

Solution

In order to regenerate nature, we set examples of land use practices that transform fast water to slow: revegetation, soil conservation, stream restoration, permaculture,ecological forestry. In order to strengthen training and disemination activities, we established El Pedregal, Regeneration and Permaculture Center. Here we carry out several workshops on soil conservation, fuel-saving stoves, water storage, irrigation, organic farming, dry ecological toilettes, and house eco-building.

Long-Term Impact

Securing water sources and promoting slow water practices means new oppotunities for small scale production and diversified income. It reduces migration and increases working force. In the level of small communities around the city, efforts will be, focusing on improving the economy of small steep-slope producers. In this sector, we promote food self-sufficiency and productive diversification. At the same time we secure water sources, protect the environment and apply local community proposals.