Environmental programmatic axis

Healthy Ecosystems, Thriving Communities

Conserving nature to support resilient communities

How we do it

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.

Environmental Program

Healthy Ecosystems, Thriving Communities

Lines of Action

Conservacion

Conservation Areas

We promote the care and sustainable management of forests, water sources, and other biodiversity-rich ecosystems. We work alongside communities and local governments to manage conservation areas, protecting native species and ecosystem services that sustain life. These areas not only safeguard nature, but also strengthen territorial resilience and the well-being of the people who live there.

Taller y práctica MIF

Integrated Fire Management

Uncontrolled fire puts lives, forests, and livelihoods at risk. Through integrated fire management, we seek to reduce forest fires while recognizing traditional uses and the benefits fire can have when managed responsibly. Through training, planning, equipment, and community action, we strengthen fire prevention, response, and appropriate fire use.

recurso

Water Resource Management

We promote community organization to protect and manage water sustainably. Through research and monitoring of water quantity, quality, and behavior, we strengthen local decision-making to ensure long-term water availability. We promote household- and community-level rainwater harvesting projects to increase resilience to climate change.

CosechaHuerto

Forest Landscape Restoration

We work with communities and local governments to recover degraded forests and ecosystems, restoring biodiversity and the natural processes that sustain life. We are pioneers in the rescue, production, and planting of native forest species, helping regenerate soils, protect water sources, and improve ecological connectivity. Each tree planted represents a step toward nature’s recovery and an opportunity for communities to actively engage in protecting their environment.

Mujeres Cocina

Fuel-Efficient Improved Cookstoves

We promote efficient rural technologies that improve family well-being and reduce pressure on forests. At Vivamos Mejor, we have developed a cookstove model adapted to cultural contexts and local needs, facilitating community adoption. Our design ensures kitchen safety, reduces firewood consumption, improves heat efficiency, and significantly lowers indoor smoke emissions. With each stove installed, family health is protected, biodiversity is conserved, and progress is made toward more responsible and sustainable use of natural resources.

Environmental Program

Our focus areas

agroecologia para la vida
Regenerative Agriculture
Sustainable food systems rooted in resilience and soil health.
DAVID POCOP
Healthy Ecosystems, Thriving Communities
Conserving nature to support resilient communities.
Pagina 39
Environmental Awareness and Action
Building awareness to protect nature
PAGINA 15
Environmental Awareness and Action
Building awareness to protect nature.

Meet our team

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.

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

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.

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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