Mexico City – The Institute of Biology of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) recently received a $20,000 donation from Uber to support the “AdoptAxolotl” program. This program aims to restore the ecological balance of Xochimilco, a World Heritage Site known for its chinampas, a traditional Mesoamerican method of agriculture using raised fields.
The donation will be used to maintain existing chinampa refuges that provide habitat for the axolotl, an endangered amphibian endemic to Mexico. Funds will also go towards environmental education efforts to raise awareness about the plight of the axolotl and Xochimilco.
“Thanks to the support that Uber will provide in the following months we will be able to continue with our research work for the conservation of the axolotl and its habitat. This donation will allow us to maintain three chinampas-refuges during the coming year. We are very pleased that different actors join together to protect this World Heritage of Humanity and its biodiversity,” commented Diana Laura Vázquez Mendoza from the UNAM Institute of Biology.
Uber Planet, the company’s sustainability initiative launched in Mexico in 2021, allows users to offset their carbon footprint from trips through Uber. The program supports various environmental projects, and starting in 2024, will contribute to the axolotl’s conservation.
“AdoptAxolotl” was established in November 2022 to promote public participation in Xochimilco’s restoration. The program offers virtual adoption options for axolotls, with the goal of expanding the protected area for the axolotl and revitalizing the chinampa agricultural system.