Top 3 Companies Leading Sustainable Change in Guatemala

In Guatemala, the commitment to sustainability has become an essential pillar for many companies aiming to leave a legacy of positive impact. Here, we highlight three leading companies in the country that are implementing sustainable practices to drive economic, social, and environmental development.

CMI, Corporación Multi Inversiones: Innovation and Sustainable Growth

CMI, Corporación Multi Inversiones (CMI), led by the third-generation family members Juan Luis Bosch Gutiérrez and Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga, has shown a strong commitment to sustainability through its business groups, CMI Capital and CMI Foods. Both work in synergy to promote initiatives that advance sustainable development in the region.

CMI Capital, a key part of this strategy, presented its "Strategy with Purpose" in 2022, focusing on three key objectives for 2030: expanding the renewable energy matrix, developing sustainable construction, and providing financing with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.

Among its notable projects, CMI Capital has diversified its renewable energy focus with initiatives like the Choluteca Solar Park in Honduras, with 70 MW, and the Cerro de Hula Wind Farm, also in Honduras, with 126 MW. Additionally, the partnership with AES El Salvador to operate the Bósforo project, which reduces 175,000 tons of CO2 annually, underscores its commitment to clean energy solutions.

On the other hand, CMI Foods has also made significant strides in sustainability by incorporating a fleet of electric vehicles into its operations. This initiative, in collaboration with CMI Capital, not only reduces noise pollution but also prevents the emission of 300 tons of CO2 over the vehicles' lifespan.

CMI has achieved carbon-neutral certifications for its operations in El Salvador and Costa Rica, highlighting its leadership in combating climate change. These certifications reflect the company's commitment to sustainable practices and its ability to implement innovative solutions that benefit both the environment and local communities.

Their focus on sustainability and innovation has positioned CMI as a role model in the region, excelling in initiatives aimed at achieving a positive impact on economic, social, and environmental development.

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Enel Green Power: 100% Renewable and Sustainable Energy

Enel Green Power stands out for its commitment to sustainability and the production of 100% renewable energy in Guatemala. Operating five hydroelectric plants, the company boasts an installed capacity of 164 MW, providing clean energy to the country’s power system.

Enel Green Power focuses not only on energy generation but also on fostering local micro-enterprises through its Creating Shared Value (CSV) Initiative in the "Ten Hills" area. This initiative demonstrates that sustainability is an integrated business model throughout the company’s value chain, from the design and construction of plants to strategic partnerships with companies like Coca-Cola to promote renewable energy and contribute to decarbonization.

Grupo Cayalá: Real Estate Development with an Environmental Focus

Grupo Cayalá is a real estate development company in Guatemala that has distinguished itself with its focus on environmental sustainability. Its flagship project, the city of Cayalá, designed by renowned architect and urban planner Leon Krier, combines modern urban living with a preserved natural environment.

Within Cayalá, there is a division called Cayalá Eco that promotes sustainability through various actions. These include waste collection and sorting for recycling and composting, wastewater treatment and reuse for irrigation, the use of alternative fuels with controlled emissions in service vehicles, and the conservation of green areas and natural reserves around the city.

Since the master plan was designed in 2003, Cayalá has achieved sustainable and responsible growth, reaching a record of 13 residential towers delivered in 2019. Thus, Grupo Cayalá has been recognized for promoting a culture of sustainability and implementing innovative projects aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of its operations.

Companies in Guatemala are leading the way towards a more sustainable future. CMI, Cementos Progreso, and Grupo Cayalá are outstanding examples of how sustainable practices can be integrated into the core of business operations, promoting economic, social, and environmental development. Through their initiatives, these companies are not only contributing to the progress of their industries but are also setting a standard for corporate sustainability in the region.