We commemorated this Earth Day by talking to Michaela Heisig, a biologist from the University of Hamburg who 20 years ago led ALMA’s environmental impact study at Chajnantor and remains in charge of conservation plans at the site.
“ALMA did something that was not very common: it voluntarily conducted the environmental impact studies. Even today there are few projects that operate with this awareness.”
“We designed plans for the protection of flora and fauna. We moved four very large and old cactus cacti from the projected road and monitored the three neighboring vizcacha colonies, as well as the passes and the development of vicuñas. We can report that there is an increasing trend in their population present at ALMA.”
“I feel that there is a sustained interest of the organization to conserve and preserve this ecosystem. Our work to care for the altiplano has been very well received by the staff.”
“Safety personnel have been very supportive. In fauna monitoring, and thanks to a photo they sent me, we were able to confirm the presence of the chingue, a species that had not been recorded in the second region, especially at 5,000 meters above sea level.”
According to the German biologist, being in contact with such a unique and fascinating ecosystem, it is imperative that we raise awareness about caring for the environment and recognize those who strive to do this work on a daily basis.
May every day be Earth Day!
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