SUSTAINABILITY
We are aware of the current state of the planet and the importance of taking responsibility for preserving our environment. Therefore, we always consider the environmental impact of our production and economic activities, not only on our land but also on our communities and people.
We work day by day with the firm purpose of creating a sustainable future and contributing to the preservation of the environment
Our commitment is reflected in every stage of our production chain. We have adopted responsible agricultural practices that minimize the use of natural resources and greatly reduce the impact on the local ecosystem.
We promote soil conservation, efficient water utilization, and the protection of biodiversity on our farms.
Furthermore, we strive to foster a prosperous and equitable local economy. We work closely with nearby communities, generating employment and promoting economic development in the region.
We value our people and ensure that they are provided with fair and safe working conditions.
We explore options for renewable energy and more efficient technologies to minimize our carbon emissions and maximize energy efficiency.
But our commitment doesn’t stop there. We are constantly seeking innovative ways to improve our processes and reduce our environmental footprint.
The sustainability of nopal cultivation
The cultivation of nopal is highly sustainable due to several reasons, positioning it as an environmentally friendly and socially beneficial agricultural practice. Here is a brief list of sustainable characteristics of nopal cultivation:
- Nopal is a plant that easily adapts to different climatic conditions and soil types.
- It has the ability to regenerate the soil.
- It can capture CO2.
- It produces renewable energy (“Biogas”).
- This plant is also resistant to pests and diseases.
- It is a source of nutritious and versatile food.
- It contributes to the development of health care products (“NopaliuX”) and personal care products (“Golden Garden Cosmetics”).
- It plays a vital role in the economic development of the areas where it is grown, generating employment opportunities related to cultivation, production, and more.
Our company, PRODUCTORES DE TUNA SAN JOSÉ DEL SITIO, is located in the state of Zacatecas, specifically in the municipality of Pinos. Our state is currently the most important in Mexico in terms of Nopal and Tuna production, according to the Secretaría de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural (SAGARPA). In our state, approximately 64% of the agricultural area is dedicated to nopal cultivation. In our municipality of Pinos alone, there are currently over 16,000 hectares of nopal tunero (prickly pear cactus) planted, making us a powerhouse not only in nopal production but also in the national and international trade of Tuna (prickly pear fruit).
In addition to the above, we take pride in being pioneers in the production of Aceite de Semilla de Tuna (also known as Prickly Pearl Seed Oil). Our production is highly efficient, and we have an abundant supply to meet the demand. Approximately 50 liters (13 gallons approx.) of oil can be produced from one ton of seeds or roughly 1 liter (3.5 ounces approx.) per 20-kilogram (44 pounds approx.) sack of seeds. This showcases our capabilities to efficiently and effectively supply our products and raw materials to customers both nationally and internationally.
To carry out all our productions, it is necessary not only to have a region that provides us with the necessary resources to meet our needs and the needs of our customers but also to have the necessary personnel to meet the quality standards we aim to provide. This is why we can be proud to be a key element in the economy of families and communities in our region. Currently, more than 20 families work directly with us, and during the prickly pear season, we offer temporary jobs to single mothers or individuals with disabilities to assist with the harvesting. In addition, we often provide opportunities for students to do their social work with us. All of this is important because we are located in one of the regions with the greatest inequalities and economic difficulties.
References:
SAGARPA, 2015. Estudio de factibilidad para el establecimiento de cultivo de nopal (opuntia) en tierras ociosas en los estados de Aguascalientes, San Luis Potosí, Guanajuato y Zacatecas con fines alimenticios, energéticos y ambientales. Secretaría de Agricultura, ganadería, Desarrollo Rural, Pesca y Alimentación (SAGARPA). Link: https://www.gob.mx/cms/uploads/attachment/file/346982/Nopal_Detallado.pdf
El nopal, also known as Opuntia, is a plant of great importance for the environment and society. Its positive characteristics and ability to grow in diverse areas make this plant an invaluable ally in the fight to reduce environmental impact.
One of the main characteristics of the nopal is its resistance and adaptability to different climatic conditions and soils. This plant can grow in arid and semi-arid regions where other plant species struggle to survive. Its ability to efficiently absorb water and nutrients from the soil allows it to thrive in areas with limited resources, thus contributing to biodiversity conservation in disadvantaged areas.
In addition, the nopal is known for its ability to retain and conserve water in its tissues, making it a valuable resource in the fight against desertification and drought. Its extensive and deep root system helps prevent soil erosion by holding it firmly together, thus avoiding nutrient loss and land degradation.
Another positive characteristic of the nopal is its ability to capture and store carbon. As part of its photosynthesis process, this plant absorbs carbon dioxide from the air and converts it into biomass, thus helping to reduce levels of this greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. The nopal’s capacity to act as a carbon sink is particularly relevant in the fight against climate change and the search for sustainable solutions.
In addition to its environmental benefits, the nopal also plays an important role in society. It is an edible and nutritious plant, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy food option. Its cultivation can provide a sustainable source of income for local communities, thus promoting food security and economic development in regions where access to agricultural resources is limited.
In summary, the nopal is a plant with positive characteristics for both the environment and society. Its ability to grow in adverse areas, its resistance to limited water and soil, its carbon sequestration capacity, and its nutritional value make it an invaluable ally in reducing environmental impact. Promoting its cultivation and responsible use can significantly contribute to the conservation of natural resources and the well-being of communities that depend on them.
References:
Carrillo, E. 2010. Nopal tunero retiene suelo y agua, además conserva flora y fauna. CUCBA. Universidad de Guadalajara. Link: Nopal tunero retiene suelo y agua, además conserva flora y fauna | Universidad de Guadalajara (udg.mx)
Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales, 2020. La riqueza del nopal. Gobierno de México. gob.mx (www.gob.mx). Link: La riqueza del nopal | Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales | Gobierno | gob.mx (www.gob.mx)
Solís, S., Rendón, A. y Pomar, S. 2021. El nopal y su aportación a la economía local. La Jornada. www.jornada.com.mx/ Link: El nopal y su aportación a la economía local
We firmly believe in the power of our actions to make a difference. We are committed to leading the way towards a more sustainable future, where production and environmental care complement each other harmoniously. Join us on this journey and discover how together we can create a better world for future generations.
