Maria Blanco

I am deeply interested in developing conservation and ecosystem restoration projects in Latin America, particularly from a social perspective. I have a background in chemical engineering, and since graduating, I have worked for over five years in sustainability and decarbonization. My experience includes both the public and private sectors, working with local governments in Mexico to develop climate policies, as well as with an international energy company where I was hired to launch the sustainability practice of their consulting branch. Additionally, I have experience in carbon markets and carbon project design, where I provided consultancy services to carbon traders and their clients. My work involved carbon accounting, quantifying marginal abatement costs, and advising on decarbonization claims. I have also been involved in originating carbon removal projects. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s in Environmental Management at Yale, specializing in ecosystem management and conservation. Transitioning from my consulting experience, my aim is to build practical skills for understanding, designing, and implementing nature-based solutions together with the people that own the land. My passions lie in environmental protection and cultural diversity, and my goal is to work with an organization whose core values align with these commitments. I want local communities to understand how they can benefit from implementing conservation projects, and for future generations to aspire to be involved in initiatives that protect our natural ecosystems.