From its humble beginnings in the 1980s the Centro Latino Americano de Ecolog\u00eda Social stands before you. CLAES wasn’t born in a grand building. It emerged from a collaborative spirit within the Centro Franciscano y Ecol\u00f3gico CIPFE. This modest group of activists and intellectuals fostered a unique blend of environmental awareness and social justice.
CLAES quickly distinguished itself focusing on social ecology. The organization recognized the interconnectedness of human communities and their environment. It understood that tackling socio-environmental problems required a holistic approach. Research and action went hand in hand. This commitment to defending life and promoting sustainable alternatives set the stage for CLAES’s enduring legacy.
Over the years CLAES expanded its network. It built connections with national and continental organizations. It played an active role in shaping environmental policies across Latin America. CLAES sent delegates to the Red Uruguaya de ONGs Ambientalistas. Its representatives participated in international forums. Think IUCN commissions or PNUMA expert panels. They even advised Uruguay’s Ministry of Environment.
The Centro Latino Americano de Ecolog\u00eda Social didn’t just react. It proactively created spaces for collaboration. One example is the platform promoting alternative development strategies. The organization worked tirelessly on social ecology initiatives.
CLAES funding comes from a diverse range of sources. Support came from the Uruguayan Ministry of Environment. International bodies like the UN Environment Programme PNUMA also contributed. Numerous foundations Oxfam the C.S. Mott foundation Misereor and others played a crucial role. Even governmental bodies in Uruguay and international development agencies provided vital funding.
The Centro Latino Americano de Ecolog\u00eda Social isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant hub of activity. It’s a place of research publication and collaboration. It’s a testament to the power of collective action in the pursuit of a more sustainable future. The legacy of CLAES continues to inspire efforts to promote ecological balance and social justice across the continent. Its work speaks to the urgency of confronting socio-environmental challenges head on. The future of Latin America depends on this type of commitment. So thank you for joining us here today at this important institution.