Environmental Program

Resilient Landscapes and Biodiversity

Biodiversity-led solutions for resilient communities and ecosystems

The Challenge

The territory where we work is rich in biodiversity and culture, but it faces serious threats. Deforestation, wildfires, intensive land use, and climate change are weakening ecosystems and affecting community livelihoods. Today, conserving natural resources and building resilient landscapes is more than a goal—it is an urgent necessity.

Deforestacion

Deforestation

Between 2001 and 2024, Sololá lost 3.04 thousand hectares of tree cover, representing 3.8% of its forest cover in 2000. In 2024 alone, 122 hectares of natural forest were lost.

Incendios

Wildfires

The main cause of wildfires is intentional burning (51.4%), followed by agricultural burning (20.0%). The historical peak of affected area occurred between 2008 and 2012, reaching 616 hectares in 2009.

Desafio sequia

Risk of Drought

The territory is classified as being at high risk of biophysical drought. The Aridity Index (P/ETP) is 58.44, based on historical climate data from 1970 to 2023.

Our Solution

We work with families, communities, and across the landscape, strengthening the relationship between people and nature.
We promote agroecology as a foundation for producing healthy food and regenerating soils.
We conserve forests, water sources, and key ecosystems that sustain life.
We strengthen rural economies that transform biodiversity into well-being for communities.
We promote environmental education as a tool to reconnect people with nature, inspire action, and protect our planet.
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Impact in numbers

Last 10 years

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hectares of forest conserved through community forest management, vital water, soil, and biodiversity resources are protected.

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hectares reforested, with more than 3 million native trees and plants produced and planted to restore forest landscapes.

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community firefighter brigade formed and 50 km of firebreaks implemented, strengthening wildfire response and preventing biodiversity loss.

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improved cookstoves installed, reducing firewood consumption, decreasing deforestation, and improving the health of rural families.

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agroecological gardens and plots implemented in rural communities to ensure access to healthy and nutritious food.

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families increase their household income using local biodiversity through the production of coffee, mushrooms, honey, and ecotourism initiatives.

Meet our team

Our Focus Areas

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Regenerative Agroecology

Sustainable food systems rooted in resilience and soil health

Regenerative Agroecology

Sustainable food systems rooted in resilience and soil health

We work alongside rural families and communities to produce healthy and diverse food, with special attention to soil health. We strengthen agroecological practices that combine ancestral and scientific knowledge. We promote the use of organic fertilizers, soil conservation, crop diversification, and natural pest management.

View our Lines of Action >>

DAVID POCOP

Healthy Ecosystems, Thriving Communities

Conserving nature to support resilient communities

Healthy Ecosystems, Thriving Communities

Conserving nature to support resilient communities

In Guatemala’s rural landscapes, biodiversity is the foundation of human well-being. In this focus area, we restore and protect the ecosystems we depend on—forests, water sources, and fertile soils. We do this with and through communities, using native species reforestation, participatory planning, fire management, and cleaner technologies such as fuel-efficient cookstoves.

View our Lines of Action >>

PAGINA 15

Biodiversity-Based Livelihoods

Income opportunities that sustain people and nature

Biodiversity-Based Livelihoods

Income opportunities that sustain people and nature

This focus area promotes fair income generation for rural families through the sustainable use of biodiversity. Through training and technical assistance, we strengthen skills in the production and commercialization of coffee, honey, mushrooms, and ecotourism. We support individuals and community groups in developing sustainable, climate-resilient business models that protect the environment while creating economic opportunities.

View our Lines of Action >>

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Environmental Awareness and Action

Building awareness to protect nature

Environmental Awareness and Action

Building awareness to protect nature

Change begins in everyday life, and education is key to inspiring it. This focus area brings environmental topics into schools, radio programs, communities, and homes. We strengthen the capacities of teachers, community promoters, and local leaders to share the value of living in harmony with nature. We create materials rooted in local ecology and culture, develop educational modules, produce radio programs, and create spaces for children, youth, and adults to reconnect with their environment. In this way, we plant seeds of environmental awareness that grow into collective commitment.

View our Lines of Action >>

Download Our Strategic Plan 2024–2029

Support Our Environmental Program

With your contribution, you help us to:
Plant and restore forests with native species that protect water sources, soils, and biodiversity.
Harvest and care for rainwater to ensure its availability for communities and ecosystems.
Strengthen agroecological production of healthy and sustainable food.
Promote rural economies that generate income while protecting nature.
Educate children, youth, leaders, and communities to live in harmony with nature.

Impact Story

youtube-video-thumbnail
Angélica and Cornelio Show How Water Brings Hope

In San Juan La Laguna, Angélica and Cornelio have transformed their lives and their land thanks to a rainwater harvesting system that allows them to plant and care for their crops, even during the dry season.

Explore All Our Stories

Grain Storage for Food Security

August 11, 2022

Why Proper Basic Grain Storage Matters  In Guatemala’s highlands, most rural families rely on subsistence farming, with corn and beans […]

A Baby is Like a Plant, Both Need Care to Grow

July 11, 2022

Improving Family Quality of Life  A mother’s advice is pure love and experience for her children. Rebeca Chumil, a mom […]

Why Work With Vivamos Mejor

Proven Impact Since 1989

We have worked alongside communities in Sololá since 1989. Our team has a deep understanding of the local context, allowing us to design realistic, culturally relevant, and sustainable solutions.

Transparent Management and Strong Financial Track Record

We follow responsible administrative and financial practices aligned with international standards, including International Standards on Auditing (ISA).

Experience- and Evidence-Based Approach

We design our programs based on in-depth knowledge of the territory and rigorous technical and scientific analysis.

Our Other Programs and Departments

SOCIAL PROGRAM

Comprehensive Early Childhood Development

CEDRACC

Center for Rural Development Education and Climate Change Adaptation

DAT

Department of Territorial Spatial Analysis and Monitoring

Want to know more

Fill out the form below and we will get in touch.


Calle Los Salpores 0-83 zona 3 Barrio Jucanyá, Panajachel Sololá, Guatemala 07010
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