Mexico has been facing serious environmental issues, ranking 11th to 13th in greenhouse gas emissions among UN member states over the past 20 years. As a result, various discussions aimed at addressing environmental problems have been actively taking place, driven by the government and civil organizations. In this context, the ASEZ Forum for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was held on December 9, 2024, at IPN (Spanish: Instituto Politécnico Nacional, meaning National Polytechnic Institute) in Mexico. The forum was organized by ASEZ members who are currently studying at IPN, and it was designed to raise awareness about environmental protection and encourage all sectors of society to take action.
IPN is a prestigious university that boasts a high academic reputation not only in Mexico but across South America, playing a leading role in the fields of engineering and science. Particularly, through innovative research and technological development, it has contributed to the progress of both local communities and the nation. Therefore, this forum holds significant importance as it combines academic discussions on environmental protection with practical action plans.
The event was attended by over 300 university students, experts in engineering and social fields, and professors. During the forum, ASEZ members proposed initiatives such as forest and ecosystem restoration, protection of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and the establishment of strategic alliances with educational institutions and civil organizations. To achieve these goals, individuals from various sectors, including IPN professors and local government officials, joined in signing in support of ASEZ’s environmental protection and sustainable development activities, pledging their full support.
Professor Saul Hernández Islas, from the Department of Environmental Science, emphasized, “There are many organizations in Mexico working for environmental protection, but true change must start with individuals. It is important to take action in one’s own home, street, and community.” He added, “Now is the time for action, and I hope ASEZ can play a role in bringing people’s hearts together to this end.”
Professor Mildred Castro Hernández, Sustainability Coordinator at IPN, also commented on the forum, saying, “Young people are the future and the agents of change. Through ASEZ’s various activities, I believe university students will become the leaders who will make the world a better place.”
Through this forum, ASEZ members emphasized to approximately 320 IPN students that university students are the key agents of positive change for the Earth. It is expected that ASEZ university students will continue to actively engage in environmental protection and sustainable development efforts in the future.
