The Ministry of Environment and Energy announced on March 19 that it has planted 70,000 native plants in the highland ecosystems of Azuay province as part of an ecological restoration effort. The initiative was carried out in coordination with Elecaustro and is part of a broader agreement signed between the two institutions on October 29.
The planting took place during the Cuenca Natural Flow festival, which brought together members of the public to promote environmental stewardship. The event highlighted the commitment to restoring local ecosystems through community involvement.
“These initiatives, that integrate art with concrete actions in the field, demonstrate that caring for the environment is a shared responsibility. The protection of water basins not only responds to an institutional commitment but constitutes a legacy for future generations,” said Inés Manzano, Minister of Environment and Energy.
The reforestation efforts were planned jointly with six local governments: Checa, Chiquintad, Nazón, Paguancay, Gualleturo, and Luis Cordero Vega. The main goal is to protect water sources vital for both life and energy generation in the region.
The intervention focused on three main areas: the Machángara River corridor (in partnership with Gualleturo, Nazón, Checa, and Chiquintad), the area around Ocaña power station (protecting tributaries of the Cañar River with Paguancay), and recovery work near San Francisco River by Luis Cordero Vega parish linked to Gualaceo mini power plant.
According to officials, these actions strengthen conservation efforts for natural heritage and energy resources through coordinated management among national government agencies, local authorities, and citizens.
