ABOUT CAMPECHE
The Mexican state of Campeche is located in the southeast region of the country, with over 320 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, on the Yucatan Peninsula. Our collaboration is taking place in the city of Campeche and its immediate surrounding area, including in the small towns of Seybaplaya and Lerma. We are fortunate to have a great BlueCommunities local NGO partnersathat we are working with on various levels community engagement and support: Ninth Wave Mexico.
LOCAL GOALS
UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
LOCAL PARTNER
An independent, international organisation which works in unknown or forgotten territories generating space for investigation and positive change in environmental, community and social settings. They are located in the city of Campeche, where they lead multiple community-based socio-environmental programs.
CAMPECHE TURTLE PROJECT
A conservation effort to save and study the critically endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtle. In 2020, Plastic Oceans provided full funding for this, which resulted in a record year, with over 80 nests under our protection and over 6,500 hatchlings successfully made it to the sea.
MERCADO VERDE
A green weekend marketplace that supports local, fairtrade and small producers that operate with socio-environmental values. Plastic Oceans provided funding for the market space and support on general operations – which empowers over 50 local families to create meaningful income. Plastic reduction programs are in place to reduce waste onsite.
PLASTIC POLLUTION MITIGATION
Monthly beach cleanups throughout the region, as well as plastic reduction programs at the Mercado Verde and other community touch points. Plastic Oceans has provide mini grants to fund all supplies and staff has been on hand to help with the cleanups.
“It’s been inspiring to see local community members come out and want to be part of the solution.” – Julie Andersen, CEO, Plastic Oceans
URBAN FARMING & ANIMAL RESCUE
The Campanario uses circular principles to grow local, chemical-free produce. It also processes organic waste from city businesses to feed rescue animals and generate compost – which begins the process once again. The space also hosts a variety of events related to eco education, music, art, culinary demonstrations and more – which Plastic Oceans funding supports.
YOUTH & ADULT EDUCATION
Through the Campeche Turtle Project, in-school workshops, and online webinars, Plastic Oceans is supporting and participating in a robust eco education program throughout the Campeche region. In-school workshops have been limited, due to COVID, but will return in full force in 2021. Funding is needed to develop education materials.