Mexico’s Sustainability Forum, Recycled Plastic Innovations
By Eliza Galeana | Junior Journalist & Industry Analyst -
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 07:54
The Sustainability Forum held in Morelia, organized as part of Claudia Sheinbaum’s National Development Plan, brought together experts to discuss environmental strategies focused on deforestation, restoration, and water conservation. Meanwhile, Puebla’s Association of Industrialists plans to use recycled plastic for street construction and housing materials in 2025.
Ready for more? Here's your weekly roundup!
Sustainability Forum Advances National Development Plan Goals
Michoacan hosted a key Sustainability Forum as part of the National Development Plan (NDP), where government officials and experts discussed strategies to address deforestation, ecological restoration, and water conservation. The event emphasized the importance of local initiatives like Michoacan's Forest Guardian program, which uses satellite surveillance to combat illegal deforestation, and efforts to restore Lake Patzcuaro. The NDP, aiming to guide the country’s development from 2024 to 2030, includes sustainable development as a key priority, with contributions from various experts and a focus on water conservation, energy transition, and environmental protection.
Recycled Plastic to Transform Puebla’s Streets, Homes
In 2025, Puebla’s Association of Industrialists, Recyclers, and Plastic Traders plans to propose using recycled plastics in street construction to the Puebla City Council, aiming to reduce costs and promote sustainable infrastructure. The association, representing 14 companies, believes this approach could cut construction costs by up to 60% while benefiting the environment. Additionally, the group is working on a housing project to replace traditional roofing with recycled plastic, offering a durable and cost-effective alternative for low-income families.
Banorte Commits to Planting 1 Million Trees in Mexico by 2030
Grupo Financiero Banorte has pledged to plant 1 million trees in Mexico between 2025 and 2030, becoming the first private sector entity in the country to join the World Economic Forum’s One Trillion Trees initiative. The program emphasizes long-term ecosystem restoration through nurseries, education, community engagement, and technological monitoring, with support from Reforestamos México and local communities. This effort aligns with Banorte’s broader sustainability strategy, including its adoption of the TNFD framework to address nature-related risks and opportunities.
Santander México Leads Local Debt Market
In 2024, Santander México maintained its leadership in the local debt capital market for the third consecutive year, capturing a 25.4% share with MX$74.6 billion in financing emissions, including 18 ESG-aligned transactions. The bank emphasized sustainability through initiatives like green financial products, decarbonizing portfolios, and aligning with Mexico’s sustainable taxonomy and finance strategies. With a global commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, Santander aims to have 100% of its local bond portfolio ESG-labeled within the same timeframe.
Mexico City Signs Pact to Protect Bosque de Agua
Clara Brugada, Mexico City Mayor, alongside federal and state leaders, signed an interagency agreement to protect Bosque de Agua, a vital forest providing 70% of the city’s water filtration and essential environmental services. The initiative targets illegal logging, urban encroachment, and resource extraction through enforcement actions, community engagement, and sustainable practices. Led by SEMARNAT, PROFEPA, and regional governments, the agreement integrates social, economic, and environmental strategies to ensure the forest’s long-term preservation.








