Yucatán to Plant 1.3M Trees for a Greener Future

Mérida, Yucatán — Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena has launched the "Renacimiento Verde" (Green Renaissance) initiative, a large-scale reforestation program that aims to plant 1.32 million native trees across Yucatán over the next six years. The program, which began at the "Los Paseos" Linear Park in Mérida, is part of a broader environmental strategy to improve air quality, water availability, and overall well-being for residents.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Governor Díaz Mena emphasized that "Renacimiento Verde" aligns with the principles of the "Renacimiento Maya" (Maya Renaissance), a vision that honors the region’s cultural roots while promoting sustainable development.

"Renacimiento Verde stems from the spirit of the Maya Renaissance—an integrated vision that honors our roots and projects Yucatán toward a sustainable future. That’s why we’re planting trees, but also hope, community, and awareness," the governor stated.

Key Objectives of the Program

Large-Scale Reforestation
The program will plant 1.32 million native species, including ceiba, ramón, balché, chaká, and maculí, all grown in strategically located community nurseries. The initiative will start in Mérida and expand to all municipalities in Yucatán.

Environmental and Quality-of-Life Improvements
The project is expected to directly benefit 300,000 residents near Mérida’s Paseo Verde and indirectly impact over two million Yucatecos through improved air quality, reduced heat, increased water availability, and enhanced biodiversity.

Community Participation and Leadership
Women and youth will play a central role as community leaders, environmental brigadiers, and territorial guardians. Technical support will accompany plant distribution, and reforestation efforts will involve all state agencies.

Institutional Support and Legal Framework
Governor Díaz Mena thanked Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo for her support, which has enabled resource allocation and interagency coordination. The program will operate under an updated legal framework, incorporating georeferenced databases, workshops, and educational, scientific, and cultural components.

Planning and Technical Follow-Up

The strategy follows a structured approach:

1. A territorial diagnosis based on the State Ecological Planning Program.
2. Distribution of plants with technical guidance.
3. Cross-departmental reforestation efforts.
4. Ongoing monitoring and training to ensure tree survival.

Educational and Collaborative Approach

Unlike past initiatives, "Renacimiento Verde" integrates legal, scientific, and educational elements with support from civil associations, businesses, municipalities, universities, community committees, and primary schools statewide.

Social and Economic Impact

Neyra Silva Rosado, Secretary of Sustainable Development (SDS), urged public participation, highlighting the program’s ecological, social, and economic benefits.

"These planting efforts contribute to carbon capture, climate regulation, soil protection, water conservation, and habitat preservation for endemic species. Beyond ecological value, this generates jobs, boosts ecotourism, and promotes sustainable development in Yucatán," Silva Rosado said.

Attendees at the Launch

The event included:

• Alberto Casanova Martín, Director General of the Mexico First Forest Nursery Network.
• Carlos González Barrios, Head of CONAFOR’s Yucatán office.
• Harry Rodríguez Botello, President of the State Congress’s Permanent Environment Committee.
• Alaine López Briceño, Secretary of Infrastructure for Well-Being.
• Irak Greene Marrufo, Director General of the Institute of Mobility and Urban Territorial Development (IMDUT).
• José Luis González Pérez, Undersecretary of Planning for Sustainability.
• Julián Díaz Méndez, son of Governor Díaz Mena.

The "Renacimiento Verde" program marks a significant step toward ecological restoration and sustainable growth in Yucatán.