The National Association for Nature Conservation (ANCON) celebrated its 40th anniversary in Panama City on Monday, highlighting its enduring commitment to environmental protection and promoting a culture of sustainability throughout Panama. The organization used the milestone event to recognize corporate partners, dedicated member families, collaborators, and volunteers who have supported numerous conservation projects over four decades.
During the ceremony, ANCON presented special recognition to Environment Minister Juan Carlos Navarro, who served as the foundation’s first director. The organization also acknowledged the contributions of historical leaders and allied families, including the Motta family, whose consistent support has been instrumental in protecting the country’s natural heritage.
ANCON’s Legacy and Future Vision
Stanley Motta, a member of ANCON’s Board of Trustees, reflected on the organization’s impact and future direction during the celebration. He emphasized ANCON’s pioneering role in Panamanian conservation efforts.
“Well, there are many things in 40 years, it’s difficult to summarize, but I will say that this organization began talking about conservation when nobody even knew the word,” Motta stated. [Translated from Spanish]
The businessman issued a direct appeal for increased public engagement with environmental issues facing Panama. He stressed that the anniversary should serve as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to action for future conservation efforts.
“Panama needs to get more involved, and I believe that tonight’s call is not only to celebrate the past, but to look toward the future, to invite more people to truly join ANCON and join the activities that help us conserve Panama,” Motta signaled. [Translated from Spanish]
Personal Connection to Nature Drives Conservation Mission
Motta also highlighted the profound personal connection that nature creates in individuals, suggesting that direct experience with natural environments provides lasting memories that fuel conservation advocacy.
“The truth is that one has to live experiences, and the experience of nature is a unique experience that one will always remember afterward,” Motta highlighted. [Translated from Spanish]
As part of its anniversary celebration, ANCON launched its new campaign “La Naturaleza se Vive” (“Nature is Lived”), which will be disseminated through media channels and social networks starting Tuesday, October 28. The campaign’s central message aims to inspire Panamanians to actively participate in conservation efforts.
New Campaign Promotes Everyday Environmental Actions
The “Nature is Lived” initiative promotes practical daily actions including responsible solid waste management, biodiversity protection, and preservation of natural reserves. Through this commemorative event, ANCON reaffirmed its commitment to environmental education, collective action, and sustainability.
These pillars have guided the organization throughout its 40-year history and will continue to shape its direction moving forward. The celebration served to honor past accomplishments while clearly outlining ANCON’s ongoing mission to engage broader segments of Panamanian society in environmental stewardship.
For more information about environmental initiatives in Panama, visit the Panamanian Ministry of Environment website. Additional coverage of Panamanian environmental policy is available through MEDCOM Panama news sources.