ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN COOPERATIVES OF HONDURAS, ACCORDING TO THE 2025 NATIONAL CENSUS

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the role of cooperatives in Honduras in environmental management, based on the First Cooperative Census of 2025 and examples of sustainable practices. Cooperativism in Honduras is a key component of the social economy, based on cooperation, solidarity, and democratic governance among its members. These organizations seek to meet common economic, social, and cultural needs, contributing to local development and job creation. In 2023, there were 1,337 primary-level cooperatives, of which 584 were active. The main economic activities are concentrated in services and production, while 40.6% of cooperatives are dedicated to agriculture and livestock, highlighting their importance in the rural economy. Regarding environmental management, 56.5% implement actions such as energy savings, reforestation, and sustainable forest management. Examples of committed cooperatives include FEHCAFOR, CARUCHIL, COAQUIL, and COMMOVEL, with practices ranging from sustainability certifications and fair trade to biocontrol and efficient water use. In conclusion, Honduran cooperatives seem to demonstrate through their practices that they combine economic productivity with environmental care. Cooperation between organizations, especially second-level federations, also appears to amplify the positive impact, strengthening the rural economy, promoting natural resource conservation, and evidencing a social economy model oriented toward sustainability.