The planet is in a state of rapid change, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the highlands of Guatemala. Here, the Highland Support Project (HSP) has been working closely with the Association of Highland Women (AMA) in a transformative sustainable development program. The focus? A self-sustaining, circular economy that empowers Indigenous women while tackling climate change.
For the past two years, HSP and AMA have been diligently setting up greenhouses and rainwater harvesting infrastructures equipped with drip irrigation for a tree nursery in the community of Espumpuja. The seeds for this project were sown nearly two decades ago, and the fruits of this labor are beginning to emerge. However, with population growth, climate change, and increased competition for limited water resources, groundwater has become a scarce resource.
The capital cost of the irrigation infrastructure is such that locally produced seedlings would be inaccessible for local communities and villagers if these costs were passed on. Yet, the need for reforestation is exponentially increasing due to climate change and the heightened risk of landslides, a leading cause of mortality in the region.
Land distribution in Guatemala is marked by inequality. Large tracts of tropical soils are dominated by the production of tropical fruits, leaving precious little for Guatemalan Indigenous people or peasants to grow their own food or produce artisan inputs such as cotton or wool. The lure of reforestation projects presents yet another competition for the limited acreage available to Indigenous people.
HSP and AMA have thus turned to value-added, sustainable forest products such as pine and cedar needle baskets produced by Maya women. These agroforestry projects provide a vital source of revenue, contributing to the circular economy and allowing the communities to thrive amidst these challenges.
Make a difference by donating to AMA's tree nursery program and reap immediate rewards.
Each basket is unique, hand-made, and supports Maya women in Guatemala. Purchase Here
By contributing to our initiative, you will not only be helping our planet and empowering indigenous women, but you'll also receive a 20% discount code from AlterNatives Boutique. This discount can be used for an immediate purchase of our beautifully handcrafted baskets. Even a small action like this plays a significant role in our circular economy, driving sustainable development and weaving a better future.
These community-based reforestation and tree nurseries are crucial as they maintain the genetic diversity of local tree stock and provide opportunities for Maya women involved in the circular economy. Not only can you contribute by donating or purchasing these beautiful, handcrafted baskets, but you can also join a reforestation team or purchase trees for upcoming reforestation campaigns.
Help us complete the cycle for a sustainable future. Your involvement in this circular economy will help empower Indigenous women, support sustainable development, and preserve our planet for future generations. Every seed planted, every basket woven, takes us a step closer to achieving these goals.