Current ways of production and industrial civilization, led by and for profit, have caused profound environmental and social problems over the last decades.

Natural resources that allow human life to exist have been particularly affected: water, energy and food, also known by the United Nations as "The Nexus". The Nexus has been studied recently in order to underscore the complexity of human-evinronment interactions. Taking into account such dynamics in scientific research is challenging given the extensive coordination and exchange among different types of knowledge needed; ranging from grassroots to highly academic and specialized groups, from economic actors to government institutions. However, the accumulated effects of environmental degradation alongisde those of climate change, push us to rethink the way in which we currently produce our society.

Thus, a new green industrial revolution that overhauls the current technological paradigm is of utmost urgency. It should be within the natural limits of the nexus and its elements, and be able to guarantee fundamental goods to every peoples' lives.

Our organization seeks to become a pioneer in Mexico and the world in conducting research focusing on novel ethical frameworks and production modes, grounded in public and community solutions that help develop a greener and fairer industry over time

Research Questions:

Past

How has the current mode of production and global livelihood impacted on every element of the Nexus, its interactions within itself and with human society?

Transition

What public policy alternatives and community-based interventions might promote structural change and streamline it across productive chains in order to push towards a more just and environmentally sound society?

Future

What other ways and modes of production would allow us to satisfy our basic needs while remaining within the ecological boundaries?

In order to answer these questions, Maiz de Cajete developed 5 major research projects, which are in turn subdivided into an array of smaller projects. The complexity of the Nexus' framework allows us to work with researchers, NGOs and people from diverse backrounds and knowledge. Our wealth relies precicely on exchanging ideas among experts in psychology, geography, economy, engineering, etc. We also collaborate alongside non academic actors and communities.