Cancún, Quintana Roo — During the exchange event for the program "Recicla por tu Futuro" (Recycle for Your Future), Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa called on Quintana Roo residents to safeguard the state’s natural beauty. The initiative, led by the Secretariat of Ecology and Environment (SEMA), promotes recycling as a means to reduce pollution and protect ecosystems.
A Commitment to Action, Not Words
Speaking at the event held at the domo of Region 247 in the Villas Otoch Paraíso neighborhood of Benito Juárez, Governor Lezama emphasized that Quintana Roo is taking concrete steps to care for the planet. "In Quintana Roo, we are committed to environmental protection through actions, not just words," she stated.
She urged attendees to strengthen recycling efforts and raise awareness about environmental conservation. "Our natural wealth, our ecological treasures, are the foundation of our tourism industry. We must protect them because they sustain us," Lezama added.
Recycling for a Better Future
The "Recicla por tu Futuro" program not only encourages recycling but also provides food baskets to those in need. Participants exchange recyclable waste for food supplies, turning what would have been trash into vital support for families.
Governor Lezama noted that 90,000 food packages were distributed last year, with another 90,000 planned for 2025. During Monday’s event, 500 families received assistance.
The program, which began on May 1 and runs through October 31, aims to benefit 15,000 families across Benito Juárez, Puerto Morelos, Tulum, Othón P. Blanco, Isla Mujeres (Continental Zone), and Playa del Carmen. Eligible participants can receive up to six food baskets by meeting specified waste collection requirements.
Accepted materials include:
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- Aluminum
- Paper (magazines, files, newspapers)
- Cardboard (boxes and packaging)
Strengthening Waste Management
As part of the event, officials signed the New Agreement for Well-Being and Development of Quintana Roo, focusing on comprehensive waste management. The agreement includes training programs to ensure proper handling of recyclables, promote waste separation, and coordinate with specialized personnel for collection and disposal.
SEMA Secretary Óscar Rébora Aguilera highlighted the program’s dual benefits: "This initiative not only fosters recycling but also supports vulnerable families, aligning with our commitment to sustainable development."
Local and Legislative Support
Benito Juárez Mayor Ana Paty Peralta de la Peña reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to environmental protection, citing the "Residuo Cero" (Zero Waste) program, which promotes recycling in schools, neighborhoods, businesses, and households.
Also present at the event were:
- Alonso Fernando Lemmen Meyer, Environmental Protection Attorney
- Leonor Amalia González Marfil, program beneficiary
- Manuel Jesús Echánove Orta, program beneficiary
- Andrea del Rosario González Loría, President of the State Congress’s Commission on Environment and Climate Change
The initiative underscores Quintana Roo’s dedication to preserving its natural resources while addressing food insecurity through innovative, community-driven solutions.
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