Mayapo, the homeland of the Wayuu tribe. Inhabited by indigenous people who follow matriarchal traditions.

Nowadays, their whole economy is based on tourism. Their department is full of colors, which is mirrored in their beautiful craftsmanship. However, the reality of this region and the environment shows another one of their issues with even more damage: litter.

The word “litter” is not even involved in the vocabulary of the native Wayuu. According to them this is a western term that belongs to the process of industrialization. The manufacturing of plastic bags, cardboard boxes, and aluminum, these make up the biggest problem in sea and land litter.

This environmental issue has been observed from multiple points of views, but this concept hasn’t been engrossed in the Wayuu culture.

This situation has caused difficulties within this territory due to the damage of flora and fauna and has even caused conflicts among locals, since some of them aren’t used to recycling.  

For example, there have been a few instances where animals have consumed plastic which caused them to fall ill, this created conflicts among their owners.

The Mayapo community did get the opportunity to have conversations with community organizations and government agencies to raise awareness about environmental protection. This way they have more knowledge on climate change because this affects the environment and ways in which the community can protect their ecosystem through recycling systems.  

“Forming environmentally conscious beings creates a better world and preserves the connection between the Wayuu beings and nature.”