MAR News

The city of Cancun was the setting for the second commemorative meeting marking 20 years of the Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund). The celebration took place on August 26 and brought together government representatives, community leaders, civil society organizations, project managers, and strategic allies with whom MAR Fund has worked for two decades to strengthen the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of marine and coastal resources in the four countries that share the Mesoamerican Reef: Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.

MAR Fund was established as a regional platform to channel resources, strengthen local capacities, and coordinate efforts in the Mesoamerican Reef System (MAR). María José González, executive director of MAR Fund, gave an overview of the results achieved over the past two decades and added:

“What we have built together is a solid foundation for action in the coming years: more partnerships, more innovation, and more direct action on the ground.”

Throughout history, she acknowledged the founding funds—including the Mexican Fund for the Conservation of Nature—for their key role in institutional consolidation. She also highlighted the importance of partnerships with government entities, the National Commission for Protected Natural Areas (CONANP), the Quintana Roo Ministry of the Environment (SEMA), and the Quintana Roo Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Natural Areas (IBANQROO), which have been strategic partners in the implementation of conservation actions in Mexico. The same has been true of counterpart environmental authorities in Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, which have helped strengthen the MAR Fund’s regional approach.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the presentation of two testimonials on the work that has been built with partners in Quintana Roo: Mariela Gómez Dzib, from the Cooperativa Mujeres del Mar, and Alejandro López Tamayo, general director of Centinelas del Agua, who shared the growth and impact their organizations have had thanks to the support of MAR Fund.

The event also included a tribute to individuals who have left their mark on the history of SAM. María del Carmen García Rivas and Lourdes Vásquez Yeomans received recognition for their careers and commitment to marine conservation. Both biologists and researchers, represent pillars of knowledge and action that continue to inspire new generations.

Lorenzo de Rosenzweig, first chair of the MAR Fund board of directors during his tenure as CEO of FMCN, shared his thoughts on the fund’s journey and future. He also recalled how the creation of the Latin American and Caribbean Environmental Funds Network (RedLAC) was key for all environmental funds in the region.

Javier  Carballar Osorio, representing the Governor of Quintana Roo, Mara Lezama Espinosa, acknowledged the work of MAR Fund in southeastern Mexico. He highlighted the value of regional partnerships as a driver of conservation and the strengthening of ecological connectivity in the Mesoamerican Reef. His speech reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to regional cooperation, applied science, and the sustainable development of coastal communities.

The day ended with a toast and a showcase of productive projects led by women: Xcal’arte (jewelry made from lionfish), Re-utilizando (upcycled jewelry), and Mujeres BioFaunTásticas (handicrafts inspired by marine fauna), which reflect the talent and creativity of coastal communities.

Beyond quantifiable results, MAR Fund’s legacy is reflected in more resilient communities, better-protected ecosystems, and a growing regional collaboration network. The future of the Mesoamerican Reef depends on joint action. With this vision, MAR Fund seeks to continue building sustainable solutions alongside its allies.

PHOTOS: María José Hernández, Judith Morales, Cintia Landa, Amy Jones y Aaron Siller.