Embark on a journey to meet the brilliant minds steering the Atrapanieblas sustainable innovation project – a groundbreaking initiative brought to life by scientists dedicated to transforming the landscape of water scarcity in Baja California Sur.

Oscar Trujillo Millán is a marine biologist who graduated from the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur (UABCS) in 2001. His academic journey continued with a master’s degree and a doctorate from the Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas at the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) in 2009. Currently a full-time professor and researcher at UABCS, Trujillo Millán’s expertise lies in the biology, physiology, and ecology of marine fish. Recognized by the Sistema Nacional de Investigadores (SNI) and the Programa para el Desarrollo Profesional Docente, he played a pivotal role in the interdisciplinary development and coordination of the water management bachelor’s program from 2009 to 2015.

Christian Salvadeo is a marine biologist who graduated from UABCS in 2003. His academic journey led him to complete a master’s degree and a doctorate in marine sciences at the Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas (CICIMAR) at IPN. As a Professor-Investigator in the Department of Marine Biology at UABCS, Salvadeo specializes in the ecology of marine mammals, fisheries, and climate variability. Recognized as Level 1 in the Sistema Nacional de Investigadores (SNI), his impactful contributions extend to projects addressing climate change and natural resources. His work has influenced national policies, evident in the government’s use of his conclusions in the preparation of the fifth communication for the United Nations Climate Change Conference.

Building Success Together:

In Atrapanieblas, making things work means everyone in the community getting on board. It’s not just about starting something good; it’s about keeping it going for many years to come. The team is working hard at making sure everyone trusts this project so that it lasts and truly becomes sustainable.

Neblinometer Installations:

Join us in celebrating the success of the Atrapanieblas team as they expertly assembled two pairs of neblinometers – structures that assess the potential for fog water harvesting at sites before constructing larger fog collectors. One pair has found its home in Puerto Alcatraz on Isla Margarita near Bahia Magdalena, responding to the call from local residents who identified a potentially foggy area. Another pair was installed in February in Todos Santos with the enthusiastic support of students and teachers from La Palapa school, who have been actively involved since the project was presented to them in December 2023.

The Atrapanieblas team have also continued to gather data from neblinometers installed in Mulegé (Guerrero Negro, Vizcaíno, and Diaz Ordaz) and Comondú (Puerto Alcatraz). Results vary across zones, showcasing the diversity and complexity of fog water harvesting potential.

Next Steps for the Project:

As we eagerly anticipate the next chapter, the Atrapanieblas team gears up for the installation of four fog water collectors in the UABCS campus during March. This milestone will evaluate performance and resilience before deployment in communities.

Our Destination Mexico Team in Baja California Sur will be present during this event, providing a firsthand look at the incredible team of scientists bringing this technology to address water scarcity in the region. Stay tuned for the unfolding story of innovation and hope in Baja California Sur!