Our Mission
Our Mission
Preserving nature, empowering people.
At the heart of our organization lies a simple but powerful mission: to preserve and protect the natural environment of El Pastillo while empowering communities to live sustainably. We believe in collaboration, education, and stewardship as the keys to effective conservation. Through partnerships with local residents, schools, and international networks, we create opportunities for learning, engagement, and action. Our mission is not limited to the present—it is forward-looking, ensuring that the beauty and biodiversity of El Pastillo endure for generations to come.
Our Vision
A future where people and nature thrive together
Our vision is to create a future where nature and people thrive together in harmony. We imagine a Puerto Rico where biodiversity is respected as a source of life, culture, and identity. In this future, communities are not separated from conservation but are central to it—benefiting from sustainable livelihoods, eco-friendly tourism, and a healthier environment. We envision El Pastillo as a model for conservation that inspires others to act, both locally and globally. Through perseverance, innovation, and unity, we are building the foundation for a greener, more resilient tomorrow.
Our Values
Principles that guide every action
Values are the guiding principles that shape everything we do. At El Pastillo Conservation Trust Inc., we are guided by stewardship, integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. Stewardship means caring for the land as if it were our own home. Integrity ensures transparency and accountability in our work. Inclusivity guarantees that all voices—young, old, local, and global—are welcomed and respected in the conservation journey. Collaboration reflects our belief that no one can achieve lasting change alone. These values are not just words; they are actions we practice every day as we engage communities, manage projects, and advocate for nature.
Education for Awareness
Knowledge builds guardians of nature.
Education is one of our strongest tools. Through workshops, field trips, and community programs, we inspire individuals to understand and value the natural environment. These initiatives not only teach scientific knowledge but also instill a sense of responsibility and love for the Earth.Our vision is to create a sustainable balance where both nature and people thrive. El Pastillo is more than just a location—it’s a living ecosystem that sustains wildlife, enriches culture, and provides joy to all who experience it. By engaging with our trust, supporters play an active role in shaping a future that values ecological integrity and promotes collective well-being.
Stewardship for the Future
Preserving today, securing tomorrow
Stewardship is about caring for the land as if it were our own home. Our mission focuses on sustainable practices that protect habitats and ensure resilience in the face of climate change. Every project we undertake is a step toward a future where biodiversity flourishes and communities prosper.We believe that effective conservation is only possible when diverse groups work side by side. Our partnerships extend across local communities, educational institutions, and international networks. Together, we share knowledge, pool resources, and amplify our impact.
Sustainable Development
Balancing growth with conservation
True sustainability means creating opportunities for communities without compromising the health of the environment. Our initiatives promote eco-friendly tourism, sustainable agriculture, and responsible fishing practices. We work directly with local entrepreneurs and families to introduce practices that protect resources while enhancing livelihoods. By connecting economic well-being with conservation, we prove that protecting nature and supporting communities can go hand in hand. This balance ensures that both people and ecosystems thrive together, creating a model of development rooted in respect for the planet.
Research and Innovation
Science guiding action, innovation shaping solutions
Sound conservation begins with science. We conduct biodiversity surveys, monitor ecosystems, and study the effects of climate change in the El Pastillo region. These insights inform our strategies and shape policies that protect critical habitats. At the same time, we embrace innovation—adopting new technologies such as drone mapping, GIS tracking, and renewable energy solutions to enhance our work. By combining traditional knowledge with modern innovation, we ensure our efforts are effective, forward-thinking, and adaptable to the challenges of a changing world.
A Legacy of Hope
Planting seeds of change for generations.
Ultimately, our mission is about hope. Hope that the beaches, forests, and wildlife of El Pastillo will remain vibrant. Hope that communities will grow stronger through unity and stewardship. Hope that children will inherit not just stories of what once was, but living ecosystems they can explore and cherish. Every project, every tree planted, every workshop held is a seed of change. Together, these seeds grow into a legacy of hope—a promise that the work we do today will bloom into a better tomorrow.Our mission is to contribute locally while inspiring globally. By sharing our work, collaborating with international organizations, and engaging with visitors, we show that local efforts can create ripple effects far beyond Puerto Rico. We are proud to be part of a worldwide community dedicated to preserving the planet.