Insight
The USAID-funded PROLAGO Project (2008-2013) worked with local government and the private sector to reduce environmental contamination and support integrated development of the land between El Alto, Bolivia and the southeastern shore of Lake Titicaca, which had become severely degraded by the impact of a growing human population and livestock industry.
Action
Led by the International Resources Group (IRC)/Engility, PROLAGO worked intensively with local organizations and community groups to reduce the major sources of pollution in Lake Titicaca and restore its natural habitat.TMG led PROLAGO’s SBCC strategy design and implementation. We advocated with local leaders and small business operators for regulations and monitoring, developed radio campaigns, and conducted home visits and group talks supported by print materials to change key behaviors. We helped schools and trained teachers to integrate environmental sessions into the curriculum.
We also mobilized communities to take collective action on practices, such as solid waste management and water contamination, to protect Lake Titicaca. A strong media presence bolstered the campaigns through a bi-monthly newsletter, a website, a Facebook page and YouTube channel, as well as eight tours of the project areas and activities for print and broadcast journalists.
Change
PROLAGO reduced water and environmental contamination, conserved biodiversity, and mitigated the impact of climate change. The project left a lasting legacy, increasing the understanding and importance of environmental conservation among government, communities, families, and children.
- PROLAGO worked with private companies to reduce the contamination level in meat and milk production, tanneries, and beverage factories by 50%.
- The efforts supported the production and local marketing and distribution of compost and manure by families and cooperatives, thus contributing not only to a healthier environment but also benefitting families financially.
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