SAC-TUN Tree Nursery provides trees for reforestation

SAC-TUN, our operation near Playa del Carmen, Mexico, created an on-site tree nursery in 1990 that currently produces 23 native species including four endangered species that are protected by Mexican wildlife legislation. The team uses the nursery trees for reforestation and reclamation.

The nursery project team also is working to identify, collect, relocate and protect species of flora that are at risk, using them in reforestation and restoration activities. These species will be used both on company properties and donated to communities in Quintana Roo to help enhance schools, parks, local gardens and public spaces. The tree nursery was certified as an Environmental Management Unit by SEMARNAT (Secretariat of the Environment and Natural Resources).

Over the years, a large amount of data about local endangered tree species, the environmental conditions they need to thrive and data on other flora and fauna on company properties has been collected. We also support scientific research on endangered tree species of the Yucatán Peninsula and the methods used to maintain reforested areas to ensure the survival of the trees planted.

Currently, we are working to expand the tree nursery as part of the Wakah Chan (Tree of Life) Botanical Garden to be a center for innovation and education for the community. We will also host workshops and seminars relating to scientific research and environmental conservation.

The Botanical Garden offers our SAC-TUN team the opportunity to consolidate its social and environmental responsibility initiatives and activities together with the local authorities, volunteers and neighbors. The team is finalizing a comprehensive strategy, work plan and business plan for the Botanical Garden and have already identified a spot to build a research and education center in the heart of the garden.

Once completed, the Botanical Garden will offer a unique opportunity to learn about the vegetation of the region, including a collection of orchids and bromeliads, a butterfly garden, trees, archaeological vestiges and cenotes and a space to relocate threatened or endemic plant species that are removed prior to operations. It will also house the administrative heart of the SAC-TUN Environmental Sustainability Strategy, in addition to offering a forum to the company’s environmental allies to meet and exchange knowledge on the different projects within the Mesoamerican Reef.