Save Isla del Carmen’s Mangroves! Urgent Call to Action by Environmentalist

The mangroves of Isla del Carmen and Términos Lagoon are at risk of disappearing. Environmental activist Marco Antonio Rodríguez Badillo warns that at the current rate of loss, 80% of these crucial ecosystems could be gone within a decade. Badillo is spearheading an initiative to reforest the island and combat the increasing heat in Ciudad del Carmen.

The Lagunera Alliance Against Climate Change, led by Badillo, launched an initiative on June 24th. This initiative aims to develop community-beneficial proposals, such as tree planting, to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Badillo cites data from the National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (Conabio). He claims that Campeche, the Mexican state with the second-largest mangrove area, has lost 16,690 hectares of mangroves in the past 40 years. However, he notes that the actual loss could be higher due to the lack of precise data. In 1980, Campeche had approximately 216,969 hectares of mangroves. Today, it's estimated to have around 200,279 hectares.

Badillo, who is also the president of the Lagunera Alliance Against Climate Change, calls for less political posturing and more action from authorities. He urges them to implement environmental policies to preserve the ecological heritage. He attributes the loss of mangroves, particularly in the Carmen municipality, to land-use changes for industrial activities and housing, often linked to oil activity.

As part of the reforestation initiative, specialists will determine suitable tree species for specific sites. The initiative aims to plant trees in public parking lots, school yards, avenue medians, parks, and public gardens. Coastal recreational areas and private lands previously planted with coconut trees are also included.

The initiative aims to benefit all inhabitants of the city and the island, including plants and animals. The goal is to improve well-being and quality of life by reducing rising temperatures. The plan is expected to take six years to implement, but could be extended as necessary. The ultimate goal is to provide a community environmental benefit that is sustainable and inclusive.