Mexico Environmental Conservation

The quest for sustainable development is a crucial one in Mexico. On one hand, the exploitation of Mexico’s abundant natural resources has been important to economic growth throughout the country’s history. On the other, reliance on non-renewable resources has resulted in widespread environmental degradation. Some of the relevant concerns are the disappearing rainforests in Chiapas and the Yucatán Peninsula, destruction of marine habitats in coastal areas, soil erosion in the northern highlands, and dangerous levels of air pollution in large urban areas. The following organizations are some of the many that welcome volunteers to aid in their conservation efforts.

Centro Ecológico Akumal (CEA), Apartado Postal 2, Akumal, Quintana Roo 77760, Mexico (☎984 875 9095; www.ceakumal.org). Founded in 1993, CEA engages in ecological research and direct action, including turtle- and reef-monitoring and teaching. May-Sept.; length of stay negotiable.
Earthwatch, 3 Clocktower Pl., Ste. 100, Box 75, Maynard, MA 01754, USA (☎800-776- 0188; www.earthwatch.org). Arranges 1- to 3-week programs promoting ecological conservation and engages volunteers (no special skills needed) in field research. US$700-4000, not including airfare.
Intercultural Center for the Study of Oceans and Deserts (CEDO), Apartado Postal #53, Puerto Peñasco, Sonora 83550, Mexico (☎638 382 0113; www.cedointercultural.org). Volunteers can participate in conservation, education, and science projects. 13-month internships available for those 21+. Eco-adventures US$50-200 .

More Volunteering in Mexico

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