The FMCN is a non-profit organization based in Mexico City. Its mission is to conserve Mexico's biodiversity and natural resources through economic support and strategic management. The FMCN operates as a National Environmental Fund (NEF) and executes most of its projects through local and regional NGOs, research institutes, and community groups that are immersed in Mexico's environmental and social issues. The Fund was created in 1994 under the original guidance of the World Wildlife Fund US, and with the financial support of donors such as The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the US Agency for International Development (USAID), and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation. The objective of the initiative Energy and Biodiversity: The Hot Pot in Mexico is to positively impact environmental, health, and economic conditions through the use of the Hot Pot as a complement to traditional cooking methods. The project seeks to further consolidate the program initiated in 2004 to promote, manufacture, and distribute solar ovens. The program aims not only to increase the use of the Hot Pot, but also to provide continuous training and support for optimal use. In addition, innovative strategies will be used to make the project financially self-sustaining by the year 2010.
Contact Information
Our Focus
The initiative uses market-oriented solutions to guarantee its long-term success, but at the same time seeks to ensure that this technology is made available to the most marginalized segments of the population who are in greatest need of the benefits that the Hot Pot has to offer. This is being done through a strategic alliance coordinated by Fondo Mexicano para la Conservación de la Naturaleza (FMCN) which includes the participation of Solar Household Energy, Inc. (SHE), Integrated Logistic Solutions (ILS), and an extensive network of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), governments, private companies, research institutes, and civil society.
Our Experience And Interest In The Four PCIA Central Focus Areas
Food preparation and cooking habits that have been passed down through the generations are not easy to change in any culture. The initiative incorporates that into the strategy of sensibilization and training when promoting the use of the Hot Pot. Therefore, the technology is presented as a complement more than a unique tool.
Our approach emphasizes community demonstrations and training sessions led by women to introduce the HotPot solar oven. We also promote collaboration compromises with important NGOs and Governments.
The Hot Pot exists in only one model. It is used outdoors, emits no smoke, and therefore ventilation is not an issue.
The slow-cooking nature of solar ovens minimizes the need for constant stirring and helps the food maintain more nutrients. Although the taste of some traditional dishes changes, some people actually prefer the taste and texture of food prepared in the Hot Pot. Use of the Hot Pot for cooking can save hours of daily labor to gather wood as well as reduce exposure to risks.
Relevant Publications or Studies
Business Plan elaborated by MBA student Marketing Plan elaborated by students of Georgetown University Instructive and Recipe Booklets Article published on VerdeAzul magazine Hot Pot in Mexico initiative has its own web site at www.imacmexico.org
Our Contribution to the Partnership
Fondo Mexicano para la Conservación de la Naturaleza is willing to collaborate supporting the exchange of information and best practices.
