Speaking on Channel 4’s *Revista en Vivo* program, the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources (MARENA) noted that environmental education is a key pillar of their management strategy, with a special focus on youth, families, and communities.

Gutierrez highlighted the involvement of these sectors in reforestation and environmental management efforts, noting that civic awareness and practices adopted within households and local communities help address the impacts of the climate crisis.

Regarding reforestation efforts, he cited the “Verde que te quiero Verde” (Green, How I Want You Green) campaign, through which between six and 10 million trees and other plant species are planted annually with the participation of institutions, young people, families, and businesses.

The minister also emphasized the growing citizen participation in creating green spaces, noting that families are now requesting plants to grow in their communities—a trend he believes reflects heightened environmental awareness.

Another area highlighted by Gutierrez was recycling; he stated that this activity currently generates over $50 million annually in exports and accounts for approximately one percent of the country’s total exports.

He linked these actions to the country’s preparedness for extreme weather events, recalling the role played by mangroves and Caribbean forests during the passage of Hurricanes Eta and Iota in 2020.

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