Introduction to the Route of Friendship and its Significance
The Route of Friendship, an artistic corridor connecting Mexico City to the world since the 1968 Olympics, has witnessed countless stories. However, few have carried the symbolic weight of a recent encounter involving Vida Circular, ALPLA, LG Chem, and those who have long cared for and promoted this space as living heritage.
Reforestation and Conservation Efforts
During a day of reforestation and ecological conservation, teams from South Korea, Colombia, and Mexico gathered around the Muro Articulado, a sculpture by Austrian artist Herbert Bayer, located at the Trébol de Insurgentes and Periférico Sur. This piece, representing Austria’s contribution to the Route, is situated in a volcanic rock area of Xitle, preserving original flora and fauna while collecting rainwater around the sculpture. ALPLA, a global company specializing in packaging and recycling solutions committed to circular economy and carbon emission reduction, protects and maintains this site.
Environmental Action and Symbolic Gesture
On this occasion, teams removed invasive African grass and created “life bombs” using native seeds, compost, and clay. This act symbolized returning art to its connection with the earth.
The Dynamic Nature of the Route’s Sculptures
Beyond the environmental action, this day served as a reminder that the Route’s sculptures are not static monuments but living organisms intertwined with the city. Each piece interacts with its surroundings, and preserving the landscape around them ensures their purpose.
ALPLA’s Role in the Preservation Efforts
ALPLA’s involvement in Mexico includes PET and HDPE recycling plants and environmental education programs. Their active support in preserving the flora and fauna around the Muro Articulado sculpture reflects a contemporary approach to patronage: businesses not only financing but actively participating in environmental regeneration.
Collaboration with Vida Circular
The alliance with Vida Circular further strengthens this perspective by integrating science, industry, and community towards a common goal: caring for the planet.
Renewal of the Original Project Spirit
As a long-time participant in the Route of Friendship, I am thrilled to see how the project’s original spirit—friendship among countries through art—continues to evolve and expand. Today, this friendship translates into shared environmental responsibility, a commitment to leaving a cleaner, more conscious, and more human legacy.
Hopeful Gestures in Urban Times
In times when cities tend to consume themselves, these small yet meaningful gestures are acts of hope. Public art, when cared for and lived, can remain a bridge and root.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Route of Friendship? The Route of Friendship is an artistic corridor connecting Mexico City to the world since the 1968 Olympics, featuring sculptures from various countries.
- Who participated in the recent encounter? Vida Circular, ALPLA, LG Chem, and those who have long cared for and promoted the Route of Friendship took part in this event.
- What was the main focus of their encounter? The primary objective was reforestation and conservation efforts around the Muro Articulado sculpture, symbolizing the connection between art and nature.
- How does ALPLA contribute to the Route of Friendship? ALPLA supports the preservation of flora and fauna around sculptures, reflecting a commitment to circular economy and environmental regeneration.
- What is the significance of this encounter for the Route of Friendship? This event demonstrates the evolution of the project’s original spirit, now embodying shared environmental responsibility and a commitment to leaving a cleaner legacy.
