At Minex, we firmly believe in one fundamental principle: major changes begin at the community level. Guided by this vision, we launched Conexión Raíz, an initiative that demonstrates how collaboration has the power to transform people’s lives.
Conexión Raíz is a collaborative initiative that brings together our business group, the Regional Autonomous Corporation of the Northeast Border (CORPONOR), and the Más Bosques program through the BanCO2 methodology. But what is the driving force behind this partnership?
Facing the problem
Our mission is clear and urgent: to tackle two of humanity’s greatest challenges—the environmental crisis and social inequality. For us in the department of Norte de Santander, these challenges are not abstract concepts. They are everyday realities that directly impact both the quality of life for families and the environmental balance of the entire region.
That is why we took action. The transformation began in the communities of Chinácota and Toledo, where 13 farming families have seen their lives change significantly.
Guardians of the Land: The Value of Shared Responsibility
The catalyst for this change has been a fixed monthly income of 500,000 COP. However, this is much more than a subsidy. This payment is seen as a fair contribution in recognition of their essential role as guardians of the land. By receiving this income, families have not only been able to improve their homes and strengthen their economic security and quality of life, but they are also compensated for the irreplaceable work of caring for the environment and their own production areas, which ensure their daily livelihood.
This significant transformation was made possible by financial and technical investment, which included close and specialized support throughout the entire process. And what have been the fruits of this mutual commitment? The result is a model of sustainable community development with tangible and lasting benefits that can be measured:
- 706 hectares of native forest preserved.
- 450 trees native to the region were planted.
- Adopting agroecological practices, reducing the use of agrochemicals, and promoting more sustainable production systems.
- A 70% improvement in families' living conditions.
- An 85% reduction in social vulnerability.
- A 100% increase in household income.
A replicable model for a sustainable future
The true achievement of Conexión Raíz goes beyond the numbers. We have established a model of shared responsibility in which communities are active agents of change, rather than merely recipients of aid. They are a source of inspiration, a living example of a replicable model that can bring sustainability and equity to other regions.
Conexión Raíz is proof that when trust, a shared vision, and mutual commitment come together, it is entirely possible to build more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable communities. This creates a virtuous cycle in which the well-being of families and the protection of the environment go hand in hand, ensuring a positive long-term social and environmental impact.
