Over 300 students are currently working to save the La Piedad Lagoon. This is no ordinary body of water. It could contribute one cubic meter of water per second to municipalities struggling to meet demands. Saving La Piedad from contaminants is essential for the city.
Welcome to La Piedad Lagoon. It is more than just a body of water. It is a symbol of community and sustainability.
Since 2023, the Metropolitan Autonomous University has increased efforts to save La Piedad Lagoon. The university has engaged in several projects. These projects involve over 300 undergraduate students. The projects aim to meet environmental goals. They also increase activities leading to economic development. These efforts raise environmental consciousness.
Dr Fabiola Sosa coordinates the project. She hopes access to clean water will revitalize communities. This will encourage organic farming. Recreational activities like bird watching and fishing will also increase.
The university’s sociology department plays a vital role. The Qualitative Data Collection course interviews community members. Students ask how contamination affects their well-being. They inquire about livelihoods, cultural traditions, and nourishment. Chemical analysis courses monitor water quality. They assess contaminants. Graphic design students create documentaries and infographics. These raise awareness about the lagoon’s state. Architectural students focus on landscaping for wetlands.
Completed course projects receive positive feedback. Every year, the university hosts student presentations. Local governments, conservation groups, and community members attend.
The last presentation occurred on February 19th 2024. The audience filled an auditorium with over 150 people. The purpose is to update authorities on student work. This ensures local governments continue supporting students. They promote environmental policies.
Dr Sosa hopes students will work on governmental action projects. A Basin Committee will focus on restoring La Piedad. But first, hydraulic engineers must determine technical feasibility. Can a system withstand the water entering the lagoon? Assessments are expected to begin in July. After this, legal institutions will create a protection status. This prevents urbanization. It creates a protected natural area.
Dr Sosa is proud of the students’ work. Their efforts have received recognition. Dr Sosa received the Woman Defender of Water Award in 2023. She also received an award from the Judiciary of the Federation. This was on International Women’s Day 2024. She is excited for more students to get involved in saving La Piedad. They can work towards solutions for societal injustices.
La Piedad Lagoon’s rescue represents community. It signifies dedication. It embodies a future where environmental consciousness prevails. The lagoon’s story is one of hope. The efforts by students, faculty, and community members are preserving it.