There are one hundred Latinos recognized for collaborating with environmental organizations or for maintaining an activism linked to the fight, sustainability and actions against the climate emergency. And among this large group, at least ten Ecuadorians stand out.
Some dedicated to supporting the development of technological solutions in favor of the oceans and others in defense of the rights of their communities as Leo Cerda, director of the Hakhu Foundationa project that supports community economic initiatives as a way to fight against oil and mining development in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
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Cerda is a member of the Kichwa community of Serena and one of the founders of the Napo Resiste collective. ”It is the first time that I appear on the list and it is an important recognition. Not only do I carry it, but also my Serena community, which is at the forefront of the struggle in Napo, that anti-extractivist struggle. They are not always indigenous and it is an honor to have itsays Cerda.
The 34-year-old indigenous activist has organized marches against illegal mining like last February when he managed to get the authorities to seize 197 machines. He also created the first council for the liberation of indigenous peoples where he brought together representatives from 22 countries.
“It has never been seen that indigenous and black organizations meet and prepare this type of work, of dialogue tables between two communities that have been left behind by the State,” he mentioned.
Cerda was chosen among the 100 Latinos most committed to climate action, according to the Sachamama organization, which released the list for the International Day of Climate Action, celebrated every October 24.
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In this group there is also the Quito native and businesswoman Daniela Fernández, who founded the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) in her bedroomCurrently, the network of young leaders in more than 150 countries.
“I founded SOA in my Georgetown University dorm room when I was 19, after attending a United Nations meeting on climate change and realizing I was the only young woman in the room,” she says.
Since 2014, SOA has delivered more than 270 nonprofit and start-up solutions to restore the ocean, according to Fernández.
The 29-year-old Ecuadorian is concerned about deforestation in the Amazon and unsustainable fishing practices. “These are threats that must be dealt with urgently,” he points out.
Being on that list motivates her to continue. “Being among such an inspiring group of Latinos lets me know I’m not the only one feeling this frustration, inspires me to fight, and gives me hope for a better future,” she says.
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In the payroll it consists Álex Lucitante, indigenous activist who led a movement to protect his people’s ancestral territory from gold mining. He is a member of the Ceibo Alliance, a coalition that unites groups to protect his territories and rights.
It is also found Alexandra Narváez, indigenous activist which won the Goldman environmental prize. She is the first Kofan woman member of the Sinangoe Land Patrol, which fights against patriarchal structures, advocating for women’s leadership.
The Minister of the Environment, Water and Ecological Transition, Gustavo Manriquewho stands out for its ocean conservation initiative as the Hermandad marine reserve, was included.
“It is something that we do not do to obtain prizes but out of the conviction that we need to change the lifestyle, move towards clean energy. Behind all this there is a team that deserves it ”, he indicates.
Manrique it has increased the marine and terrestrial areas by 42%; has created eleven reserves nationwideof which three have been expansions.
According to Manrique, there are 82 kilometers of the coast as protected marine areas and through a national decarbonization plan it is expected to reduce these emissions by 2025. ”Ecuador is undoubtedly one of the leaders in terms of conservation, there are many conventions, meetings and I think that are reflected in the agreements that have been signed that add up to 400 million dollars in 17 months”, says Manrique.
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This State portfolio is part of the construction of the National Irrigation and Drainage Plan and expects to deliver a new Water Resources Law in 2023.
Other Ecuadorians:
1. Sunday Peas
Indigenous leader and technical adviser to the Confenaie. He has served as legal representative of the German Indio-Hilfe Foundation.
2. Helena Gualinga
Environmental and rights activist of the Kichwa Sarayuku community in Pastaza. He exposes the conflict with oil companies and his community.
3. Lola Piyahuaje
Siekopaai leader and vice president of the Confeniae. She focuses on community advocacy for the environment and natural resources.
4. Nemonte Nenchymus
Indigenous activist and member of the Waorani Nation of Ecuador. She received the Goldman Environmental Award and Champions of the Earth.
5. Nina Gualinga
Indigenous environmental activist from the Kichwa community of Sarayaku. Since she was 8 years old she has been involved in local, national and global efforts. (YO)
Source: Eluniverso
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