SERES is a transdisciplinary initiative that integrates nature-based solutions (NbS) to strengthen the socio-ecological resilience of the territory. The project, developed by Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana and ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability in collaboration with the local administration of La Estrella, works with three educational institutions—Colegio Los Robles, Colegio Canadiense, and Colegio Waldorf Isolda—as platforms for community mediation and knowledge exchange.

The project promotes ecological restoration and food security through small-scale actions such as urban gardens, composting, collective planting days in prioritized areas, and rainwater harvesting systems. To date, the first rainwater harvesting prototype has been built and delivered at Colegio Waldorf Isolda EchavarrĂ­a. Additional prototypes are currently being developed for implementation in other institutions and for the broader community within facilities of the Municipality of La Estrella. In parallel, a guidebook is being developed to systematize the experience and facilitate its replicability, along with the design of a traveling exhibition that will document the process and outcomes of the implemented actions.

As part of the educational component, the course “Ecological and Social Management: Integrated Approaches for the Territory” was developed. The course included approximately 24 hours of sessions distributed over several weeks, strengthening capacities in climate adaptation, collaborative governance, and the restoration of social ecosystems. It was designed for undergraduate students from the Faculty of Architecture and other academic programs, as well as university departments dedicated to science communication and social appropriation of knowledge at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana. The course also included participation from officials from municipalities affiliated with the ICLEI municipal network and various stakeholders from the Municipality of La Estrella.

Ultimately, SERES seeks to strengthen collaboration between academia, local government, and communities to promote sustainable territorial practices. By integrating environmental education, community participation, and nature-based solutions, the project aims to generate long-term socio-ecological resilience in peri-urban landscapes. Through knowledge exchange, practical interventions, and the development of replicable tools such as prototypes, educational materials, and public exhibitions, SERES aspires to inspire similar initiatives in other territories facing comparable environmental and social challenges.

Students and teachers from five educational programs participated on this project (Civil Engineering; Bioengineering; Software Engineering and Emerging Technologies; Industrial Engineering; and a Master’s in Public Health program). Field visits were conducted in the town and along the Valle de las Palmas stream, and in this first phase, community-based initiatives were implemented towards a public school.

The project is linked to an external organization called the Mexican Association for Recycling Construction and Demolition Waste (AsociaciĂłn Mexicana de Reciclaje de Residuos de ConstrucciĂłn y DemoliciĂłn A.C.) and aims to analyze local legislation and incorporate sustainable practices to reduce the environmental impact in the area.

On December 9th, a progress presentation was made before members of the community and local government, and work will continue during the 2026-1 semester (January-May).

On December 9th, a progress presentation was made before members of the community and local government, and works will continue during the 2026-1 semester (January-May).