Mexico City Strengthens Forest Restoration and Fire Prevention

The Mexico City Ministry of Environment (SEDEMA) is strengthening forest conservation efforts through fire prevention, ecosystem restoration and institutional coordination as part of initiatives aimed at protecting the capital’s natural areas and environmental services.

During the National Forest Firefighter Day ceremony held at Xochimilco Ecological Park, SEDEMA recognized the work of forest firefighters responsible for preventing, detecting, controlling and combating wildfires across forests, grasslands, ravines, protected natural areas and conservation land in Mexico City.

The event was led by César Sánchez, Director General, System of Protected Natural Areas and Areas of Environmental Value (DGSANPAVA). Representatives from the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR), the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP), the Ministry of Comprehensive Risk Management and Civil Protection (SGIRPC), the Mexico City Fire Department and other environmental institutions participated in the ceremony.

SEDEMA highlighted that coordination among government agencies improves response capacity during forest fires and supports the conservation of natural resources in the capital.

As part of its restoration efforts, SEDEMA also participated in the 2026 National Reforestation Event organized by CONAFOR at San Juan de Aragón Forest, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the federal agency and National Tree Day.

During the restoration campaign, 500 trees, including ash, jacaranda and huizache species, were planted across approximately 2ha as part of a CONAFOR Environmental Compensation project that has been implemented in the park for the past two years. The initiative seeks to increase vegetation coverage, strengthen biodiversity and restore urban ecosystems.

The reforestation activities were carried out simultaneously across Mexico’s 32 states, with participation from socially responsible companies, volunteers and environmental organizations. Participants also received guidance on tree planting techniques and information about forest ecosystems, biodiversity conservation and the importance of protecting natural resources.

SEDEMA said that collaboration with CONAFOR and other institutions is essential to restoring urban ecosystems, increasing green coverage and promoting citizen participation in the conservation of Mexico City’s natural heritage.

The initiatives are part of broader efforts to address environmental challenges in Mexico City, where protected areas, urban forests and conservation zones contribute to climate regulation, air quality improvement, water management and biodiversity protection.