Sumidero Canyon, one of Mexico's most emblematic ecosystems, faces environmental challenges that require immediate attention to ensure its long-term conservation. At Vida Circular®, we have joined forces with the Cañón del Sumidero National Park to launch the ¡Vive, Conoce y Valora el Cañón del Sumidero! campaign, focused on promoting environmental education in nearby communities, with special attention to children, so that together we can protect this priceless natural treasure.
Recognized as a National Park on December 8, 1980 and classified as a Ramsar site in 2004 for its international importance as a wetland, the Sumidero Canyon is a reference of biodiversity in Mexico. Located in the state of Chiapas, near Tuxtla Gutiérrez, this majestic canyon was formed approximately 12 million years ago due to a geological fault in the Sierra Norte de Chiapas. Its imposing walls, which rise more than 1,000 meters above the Grijalva River, make it a natural spectacle of great relevance not only for its scenery, but also for its ecological value.
With an area of 21,789 hectares covering five municipalities, the park is home to biodiversity that plays a fundamental role in the stability of the ecosystem. The flora and fauna of Cañón del Sumidero provide essential environmental services such as water purification and climate regulation, highlighting its importance for the well-being of present and future generations.
The Sumidero Canyon is not only a symbol of conservation and biodiversity, but also a site that has been nominated as one of the Seven New Natural Wonders of the World, a recognition that reflects its majesty and tourist attraction. In addition, within this area is the Chicoasén hydroelectric dam, one of the largest hydraulic engineering works in Mexico. With a 32-kilometer reservoir, this infrastructure not only stands out for its technical design, but also for its contribution to the generation of clean and sustainable energy for the region.
Campaign: Live, Know and Value the Sumidero Canyon!
Unfortunately, this national park faces serious environmental challenges due to the accumulation of solid waste in the Grijalva River, washed away by the rains. This situation affects both the biodiversity of the canyon and the quality of life of nearby communities, highlighting the urgent need to promote greater environmental awareness. To address this problem, Vida Circular®, in collaboration with the Sumidero Canyon National Park, has launched the campaign ¡Vive, Conoce y Valora el Cañón del Sumidero! This initiative, aimed primarily at children and young people from schools in priority communities near the park, aims to raise awareness among new generations about biodiversity and the importance of conserving this invaluable ecosystem.
"The importance of involving children and young people in activities for the conservation of the Sumidero Canyon National Park helps them to prepare for a healthier environment from a more responsible vision, and to become allies in the conservation of the area," said Saira Velázquez Jiménez, head of communication, environmental education and social participation of the Sumidero Canyon National Park.
Throughout the months of October and November, educational workshops, recreational activities, talks, and reforestation and cleanup campaigns will be held in schools such as "Fernando Castañón", "Leona Vicario" and secondary school No. 3. These actions seek not only to train future defenders of the environment, but also to generate a positive impact that extends to the surrounding families and communities.
Romina Dávila, spokesperson for Vida Circular®, emphasized: "We want to inspire the entire community to adopt good environmental practices and actively participate in the preservation of the Sumidero Canyon. Only in this way can we ensure that this natural treasure is preserved for future generations."
This joint initiative between Vida Circular® and Cañón del Sumidero National Park highlights the importance of education and community involvement as essential elements to face environmental challenges. With this campaign, we are taking a decisive step towards the protection and restoration of the canyon, guaranteeing its preservation for future generations.
We call on authorities, civil organizations and society in general to join this effort. Only through cooperation and shared commitment will we be able to protect and maintain this invaluable natural resource.
