The Autonomous University of Baja California Sur (UABCS) earned first place in the state in the higher education category of the 2025–2026 Schools for the Earth competition. The achievement also placed the university among the top 10 institutions in Mexico after competing against more than 600 schools nationwide.
The recognition was awarded following an evaluation of School Environmental Management Plans, an initiative led by the EDUCA México A.C. Foundation. The program aims to transform educational institutions into sustainable spaces through environmental initiatives focused on water conservation, energy efficiency and waste management.
Commitment to Campus Sustainability
Dr. Ariadna Ávila said the award reflects the university’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability. She noted that competitions like Schools for the Earth encourage the development of strategies that can be replicated beyond the university, creating broader environmental benefits.
“It is very gratifying to see that plastic bottles are now being disposed of without caps. This reflects a positive shift in everyday habits,” Ávila said.
The university’s success was supported by initiatives including responsible waste management, recycling collection centers, composting programs, campus gardens, beach cleanups and biodiversity monitoring. These efforts are part of a university-wide sustainability strategy involving students, faculty and administrative staff.
Building Environmental Responsibility Campus-Wide
Dr. Pablo Hernández emphasized the importance of building a culture of environmental responsibility through active participation.
“Part of our work consists of educating and motivating the entire university community to take action,” Hernández said. He added that consistent efforts are essential to creating lasting change that benefits not only current students but also future generations of environmentally conscious community members.
