September 11 – On Colombia’s National Biodiversity Day, we underscore our environmental commitment by preserving ecosystems and helping restore others that have been transformed. Through our four management areas to reach this target we have made significant impact in the communities where we operate:
- Green Infrastructure and Sustainable Use: We conserve and preserve 193 hectares of forest, in addition to areas in the Platanillo block in Putumayo that are in the recovery process.
- Conservation of wild animal and plant species: As a result of our work in the Mata de La Urama Regional Integrated Management District (DRMI) in Casanare department we recovered 25 hectares of forest and protected three animal species: the paca (a kind of rodent), the giant otter and the anteater.
We also coordinated with the Global Big Day in Putumayo and Casanare to encourage participation in the largest birdwatching event in the world. Over 1,100 species of birds were recorded in the two departments.
- Strengthening of Protected Area Systems: We donated more than 1,600 hectares to the new Serrania de Manacacias National Natural Park, in Meta department.
- Knowledge Management in Biodiversity: Working with the Orinoquia Biodiversity Foundation, we provided records of more than 69,000 species to the Colombian Biodiversity Information System and published the book ‘Biodiversity in the Llanos 34 Block.’
Additionally, we took part in the ‘Diverse Rivers’ program headed by ANDI and the Sinchi Institute that studies the Putumayo and Caqueta rivers to develop effective strategies to protect water resources. As a result of this program, we have registered new biological species in the study area, and in some cases, in the Colombian Amazon.
These efforts contribute to the Climate Action (SDG 13) and Life on Land (SDG 15) Sustainable Development Goals and are part of our strong commitment to continuing to protect and conserve environmental wealth in Colombia and in the communities where we operate.
