Narrating Regenerative Agriculture: Sustainable Palm Oil Production in Chiapas, Mexico
The Challenge
The Earthworm Foundation launched the ambitious “Paisaje Chiapas” project in 2020 to transform palm oil production in Mexico’s ecologically sensitive Chiapas region. After four years of implementation (2020-2024), they needed a skilled professional to:
- Synthesize complex project outcomes into an accessible narrative
- Integrate diverse stakeholder perspectives into a coherent story
- Communicate technical agricultural and conservation concepts clearly
- Produce a compelling report highlighting achievements and challenges
- Balance the environmental, social, and economic aspects of sustainable agriculture
The Solution
As the Environmental Communications Consultant working in coordination with the Regional Communications Manager for Latin America, I implemented a comprehensive approach to develop the project’s 4-year report:
- In-depth Research and Preparation:
- Conducted thorough background research on sustainable palm oil production
- Analyzed regional biodiversity and ecosystem characteristics
- Studied existing regenerative agriculture practices in tropical contexts
- Mapped stakeholder relationships across the supply chain
- Interview Analysis and Synthesis:
- Analyzed in-depth interview transcripts and recordings provided by the Regional Communications Manager for Latin America
- Processed rich qualitative data from six key stakeholders:
- Two local palm oil producers implementing regenerative practices
- Project manager overseeing the four-year initiative
- Field officer with firsthand experience of challenges and solutions
- National Parks Office representative addressing conservation perspectives
- Spokesperson from a participating oil mill representing the industry viewpoint
- Narrative Development:
- Created a compelling storyline showcasing project evolution
- Highlighted measurable impacts on biodiversity, soil health, and water conservation
- Incorporated authentic voices from different stakeholder perspectives
- Balanced technical information with accessible explanations
- Publication Production:
- Authored a comprehensive 6-page report structured to engage multiple audiences
- Incorporated visual elements to enhance understanding of complex concepts
- Ensured technical accuracy while maintaining readability
- Presented clear pathways for future development
Results
My communications work delivered substantial value to the Paisaje Chiapas project and its stakeholders:
- 📊 Synthesized 4 years of complex project data into a cohesive narrative
- 🌱 Documented 5 innovative regenerative agriculture techniques implemented
- 👥 Transformed interview content from 6 diverse stakeholders into a unified story
- 🔗 Illustrated connections between sustainable practices and market opportunities
- 🌍 Highlighted protection measures for 3 critical biodiversity zones
Services
Strategic communications content creation
Project report writing for international non-profit organizations
Technical content development for environmental initiatives
Qualitative data analysis and stakeholder perspective synthesis
Environmental storytelling and narrative development
Cross-sector relationship building through effective communication
See more
Paisaje Chiapas: un modelo de palmicultura sostenible para las comunidades y los ecosistemas (read in Spanish) (English)
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