THE PERSONAL AND THE GLOBAL
In our second episode of Green is Easy, Judith Castro, a collaborator from Las Niñas del Tul, interviewed Adolfo Rolo, a project technician at the Agua de Coco Foundation. Dedicated to international cooperation and development, this organization has focused its efforts primarily in Madagascar and Cambodia, carrying out educational projects as
well as environmental protection and conservation initiatives.
Adolfo explained how the foundation implements green practices both internally and in the projects it develops.
At an internal level, and after a year-long process, the entire organization adopted more sustainable habits to reduce its environmental impact. In addition to recycling and cutting down on paper consumption, they also implemented measures such as using eco-friendly and bulk cleaning products to reduce plastic waste, installing sprinklers on
faucets, and placing a bottle inside the toilet tank to minimize water usage.
Another initiative they introduced was promoting responsible water consumption among volunteers through monthly challenges. In Madagascar, the organization is engaged in mangrove reforestation projects and awareness campaigns to protect an ecosystem threatened by massive deforestation and the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources.
Awareness-raising efforts are key. As Adolfo explains, “Changing lifestyles is difficult because, although climate change and the need for environmental conservation are obvious, local populations often cannot think about the future when their basic needs are so urgent.” This is why Agua de Coco believes that education is the key, prioritizing younger generations in the development of their projects.
Another initiative launched by the foundation is the Solidarity Hotel, a space built with local and sustainable materials, whose profits are directed towards social and environmental projects. “We want to go beyond the natural park itself—not just having an ecological infrastructure, but also creating a positive impact on the local community,” Adolfo states. Rethinking tourism in a sustainable way, shifting the narrative to focus on the positive economic return it can generate for local communities, as long as it is done responsibly and respectfully towards the environment.
Adolfo also shared the green practices he has integrated into his daily life, such as his decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle. He sees this choice not only as an ethical one but also as a way to significantly reduce his environmental footprint. Additionally, he opts for bulk, local, and seasonal products, proving that sustainability does not have to be
more expensive—rather, it requires a shift in habits and stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
As he concluded in the interview,
“I believe we are all called to play a role, whether big or small, but we have a responsibility towards both today’s planet and the planet of the future.”