Información sobre el proyecto/actividad

The Yucatan Peninsula has a great biocultural wealth thanks to the diversity of its ecosystems and the heritage of the Mayan culture. However, the extent of tropical forests, their environmental services and the traditional knowledge associated with these ecosystems have all decreased due to recurrent land use changes in the region. Current threats are related to the expansion of industry, agroindustry, cattle ranching and mass tourism.

The recent introduction of the Maya Train megaproject in the region underscores this concern. Although the Maya Train is a national priority project and seeks to boost employment and economic development, there are potential unforeseen impacts on the environment and local indigenous communities. In this regard, this project seeks to:

1. Safeguard ecosystems and their native and endemic species in anticipation of impending ecological changes, with recommendations based on research findings.

2.  Promote sustainable livelihoods of local communities that envisage the conservation and sustainable use of tropical forests, promoting the maintenance of biodiversity and preserving their traditions and knowledge.

3. Create public awareness about the importance of traditional knowledge for the management of biodiversity, as well as the relevance of actions for the preservation of tropical forests.

Proposed outputs and activities include research on flora, fauna, environmental services and traditional knowledge; training on strategies for strengthening the local economy; and dissemination of research topics among target communities and cities, decision-makers and public policy makers.