The climate crisis affects everyone, and we must all do our part to find solutions to current and impending climate challenges.
Global entrepreneurs are leading the charge in creating solutions that impact their communities and inspire others to do the same on the path toward a greener future.
As part of our YLAI Goes Green campaign, we asked YLAI alumni to expand on their creative solutions to the impacts of climate change and advise others wanting to enter the green economy. We’re excited to highlight 2022 YLAI Fellowship alum Nina Escamilla, from Mexico.
Nina Escamilla is the co-founder of Früvethy, based in Oaxaca, Mexico. Früvethy applies freeze-drying technology to create better-for-you snacks made with locally sourced fruits and vegetables and other traditional Mexican ingredients.
The YLAI Fellowship is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, with funding provided by the U.S. government.
What climate change issue are you passionate about addressing with your business?
I am passionate about everything related to food, how our systems work and how humans relate to each other through food. However, one of our main challenges is food waste, mainly associated with the first link in the chain with primary producers, for whom the impact is ecological and economical.
What solution have you created with your business, and what impact does your solution have on the climate crisis?
Through Früvethy, we focus on reducing the waste of fruits and vegetables in their first stage of production. Through freeze-drying technology, we have developed a portfolio of products that seek to have a positive ecological impact and are also healthy, innovative and socially responsible products. Taking a product that was going to end up wasted and transforming it into a high-value product is something we believe in and work for at Früvethy.
What advice do you have for others looking to make a change and address climate solutions with their business or within their community?
One piece of advice I would give to people looking to generate a positive environmental impact is first to observe and understand the problem locally — to connect with the actors involved and, from there, propose a solution in which more people can join. This is teamwork, and the more people understand and feel that it is an issue that does affect them, the more significant impact it can have.
Thank you, Nina! Head over to YLAI Goes Green to learn more about what you can do to make your business more sustainable and get inspiration from other entrepreneurs finding unique climate solutions for their communities.
The views and opinions expressed here belong to the author or interviewee and do not necessarily reflect those of the YLAI Network or the U.S. government.