An Alliance for Salt, Nature, and the Future
MSP+ Science to action 2024-2025
In the coastal community of El Jardín, in Sipacate, the natural wealth is undeniable: mangroves and wetlands teeming with aquatic life and a sky crisscrossed by birds. However, this community, far from urban centers, has historically been forgotten by local and national governments.
This is where MSP+ comes in. This program has been key to promoting conservation and sustainable development activities in the area since its inception.
MSP+ makes a difference with an innovative solution to water management
During the first phase, artisanal salt producers in El Jardín, together with the FUNDAECO team, identified key threats to shorebirds, such as habitat loss, hunting, and pollution. These problems have deep roots: low levels of education, few economic alternatives, and limited knowledge about the importance of conserving biodiversity.
In response, we developed an innovative water management protocol for salt production, which is being successfully tested. Not only does this effort improve conditions for shorebirds, it also optimizes salt production sustainably. Soon, this model will be able to be shared with other communities at the local and regional levels.
See the first phase story.
Inspiring results: Transformative Education and Art
Our impact goes beyond salt ponds. We know that lasting change begins with new generations. That’s why we promote artistic and educational activities focused on shorebirds, sparking the curiosity and commitment of children and teachers. The change has been noticeable in both the school students and teachers, who participate in the art and environmental education activities.
The El Jardín school has become a beacon of environmental awareness. A new trash collection and recycling plan has been launched there, with the potential to be replicated in other schools in the municipality. This is just the beginning of a transformation that can open doors to alternatives such as ecotourism, the creation of handicrafts, and new green ventures.
What's next: opportunities to multiply the impact
We are at a crucial moment. It is necessary to create spaces to share El Jardín’s experience and provide added value to improve the marketing of sustainable artisanal salt at the regional level, so that the implementation of conservation measures results in better income for producers.
It is also necessary to ensure the continuity of educational activities with children and young people, who will be future local leaders. Finally, it is important to support new ventures based on shorebird conservation, so that shorebird conservation is not just the beginning but a life opportunity for local youth.
Main Partners
To learn more about this project
Ingrid Arias i.arias@fundaeco.org.gt
Bianca Bosarreyes b.bosarreyes@fundaeco.org.gt