In a move to address environmental concerns, US Ambassador Ken Salazar, during a visit to Michoacan, Mexico's primary avocado production region, emphasized the need for regulatory measures against avocados cultivated on unauthorized orchards.
Salazar's comments were made in a media briefing alongside Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramirez, highlighting the environmental impact of illegal avocado farming. According to Ramirez, significant deforestation, with over 30,000 hectares cleared and 817 illegal orchards identified through the Forest Guardian initiative, underpins the urgency for action.
The forthcoming export protocol for avocados to the United States is expected to incorporate environmental guidelines, including a direct reference to the Forest Guardian, ensuring traceability from the orchard to the US market. This initiative reflects broader concerns over the environmental footprint of avocado production in Michoacan, where the unique agricultural conditions have led to a surge in illegal deforestation and water extraction practices.
Source: usnews.com