Project name:

Bison conservation

Project location:

Coahuila, Mexico

The American Bison, (bison bison) despite being a native species of Mexico, is critically endangered in the country. The decline in biodiversity has been caused by human intervention in the name of development, but at AES México we believe in economic advancement that is sustainable and responsible.

For this reason, we created a groundbreaking conservation project to recover the bison in Mexico.

In partnership with CEMEX, Mexican Fund for the Conservation of Nature and National Commission of Protected Natural Areas, CONANP, we introduced pure-bred buffalo to create a conservation herd in El Carmen Natural Reserve, located in Northern Mexico, where natural factors are suitable for the survival and reproduction of the buffalo. Not only does this help to recover the endangered bison population, but the bison also contribute to the country’s biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem.

By feeding on grasslands, the bison prevent fires from spreading, promote flora diversity and improve the habitat for other native species. Their footsteps aerate the soil, which reduces erosion and compaction of the soil, which helps to restore the native grasslands of the region.

Impact:

39 bison have been introduced to the reserve in a three-year period and 12 bison have been born on the reserve.

Thanks to the return of the largest mammal in the region and other sustainability efforts, the ecological balance has started to improve and recover.

Partners:

CEMEX
Mexican Fund for the Conservation of Nature (FMCN)
National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP)
General Directorate of Wildlife of SEMARNAT

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

15. Life on Land
17. Partnerships for the Goals