Restore biodiversity via forest and wildlife conservation

Grupo Argos is an infrastructure investment manager operating across 21 countries and territories with over 11,500 employees. Its portfolio covers cement, energy, road and airport concessions, and urban development.

For more than 90 years, the group has integrated sustainability as a core business pillar, focusing on generating long-term value for stakeholders. Environmental protection and resource efficiency are key priorities, recognizing the importance of preserving natural resources both as inputs for operations and as vital components of community well-being.

Across 20 departments in Colombia, companies within the group implement biodiversity and ecosystem protection programs that contribute to national and global conservation goals.

Location of the initiative: Colombia – 20 departments including Antioquia, Tolima, Valle del Cauca, Chocó, and Bolívar.

The initiative promotes the conservation of native flora and fauna through research, restoration, and partnerships. A range of projects support threatened ecosystems—such as tropical dry forests, mangroves, and high Andean habitats—by combining scientific research, community participation, and environmental education.

Key steps:

1. Research and planning: Identify ecosystems at risk and prioritize conservation zones based on ecological value.

2. Native flora restoration: Establish nurseries to reproduce native tropical dry forest species, targeting

   500,000 seedlings annually by 2025

3. Mangrove rehabilitation: Plant approximately 1 million mangrove seedlings over six years across coastal areas in Atlántico and Bolívar.

4. Fauna protection: Implement the We Conserve Life program to protect the Andean bear and its habitat across Cauca, Risaralda, Chocó, and Valle del Cauca

5. Species monitoring: Collaborate with research institutions to identify new flora and fauna species, including two new orchids found near hydroelectric facilities.

6. Aquatic biodiversity conservation: Support reproduction programs for native fish in the Anchicayá River through partnerships with local communities and universities.

7. Wildlife crossings: Construct 22 crossings (underground and aerial) in road concession projects to maintain ecological connectivity.

8. Community engagement: Promote environmental education reaching 90,000 students and 3,500 teachers

Sustainability impact

Climate

• Supports carbon sequestration through large-scale tree planting and forest conservation, contributing to national and international biodiversity and climate frameworks such as the

  Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework

Nature

• Conserves over 31,000 hectares across mandatory and voluntary programs.

• Restores tropical dry forests, protects mangrove ecosystems, and safeguards species such as the Andean bear, tapir, puma, and native fish.

Social

• Strengthens community involvement in environmental management through participatory education and local conservation agreements.

• Improves ecosystem services such as water regulation, flood prevention, and food security.

Business impact

Benefits

• Ensures operational continuity through strong environmental management and compliance.

• Builds stakeholder trust and enhances reputation as a responsible investment group.

• Aligns with global biodiversity and sustainability indices (e.g., Dow Jones Sustainability Index, recognized for 12 consecutive years).

• Generates long-term social and environmental value while minimizing business risks from ecosystem degradation.

Costs

• Investments cover restoration infrastructure, species monitoring, and education programs across multiple departments.

• Costs are offset by ecosystem service benefits, regulatory compliance, and improved community relations.

Typical business profile

Large industrial and infrastructure groups with operations impacting natural ecosystems, particularly in energy, construction, and transportation sectors.

Approach

1. Map biodiversity hotspots and prioritize restoration zones.

2. Design projects integrating scientific research with community participation.

3. Implement habitat restoration and wildlife protection measures.

4. Monitor results and adjust management practices based on ecological indicators.

5. Strengthen education and communication to sustain long-term engagement.

Stakeholders involved

• Internal: Argos Foundation, Celsia, Odinsa, Cementos Argos.

• External: Community councils, universities (University of the Pacific), government agencies (AUNAP), NGOs, and local schools.

Implementation and operations tips

• Integrate biodiversity planning early in project design.

• Involve local communities and educational institutions from the outset.

• Combine conservation with sustainable livelihoods to ensure long-term success.

• Regularly monitor flora and fauna to guide adaptive management.