**Whales or Gas? Gathering Signatures Against the “Saguaro” Project**
In a bold move to protect marine life in the Gulf of California, over 30 civil associations have come together to oppose the “Saguaro” project. These organizations have launched a campaign asking for public support through signatures, employing the slogan “Whales or Gas?” to highlight the potential threat to the world’s largest mammal, the whale. They aim to prevent the installation of the project in this ecologically vital fishing area of Mexico.
So far, over 120,000 people have added their names to the petition hosted on Avaaz.org, aiming for a target of 200,000 supporters. The campaign’s message is directed towards Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, her government, and U.S. President Joe Biden, alongside their respective authorities.
Claudia Campero, the Connections Climate coordinator, explained that the Saguaro project is divided into several phases, starting with extracting liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Texas and transporting it through pipelines across Chihuahua. Plans are then to establish a liquefaction plant in Puerto Libertad, Sonora, to convert LNG into methane gas for shipment to Asia on large methane tankers. This will involve transporting 2,800 million cubic feet per day, leading to massive marine traffic in the Gulf of California, known as the “Aquarium of the World.”
Opponents argue the world must move away from fossil fuels rather than sacrificing these regions and their populations. Protecting the whales in the Gulf of California from this looming threat is of critical importance.
As per the petition text, “They intend to convert the Gulf of California into a Sacrifice Zone for the fossil industry, worsening the climate crisis and endangering the health of various communities.” It continues, “Due to the noise and potential collisions with whales, this project is utterly incompatible with the survival of marine mammals in the Gulf of California. But you can help stop it with your signature and activism.”
To join this effort, individuals can sign the petition at the following link: [Avaaz Petition](https://secure.avaaz.org/community_petitions/es/claudia_sheinbaum_y_joe_biden_las_ballenas_de_mexico_estan_en_grave_peligro/).
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**Additional Update: Rising Tensions Around Marine Conservation**
Recent reports indicate heightened discussions around marine conservation related to the “Saguaro” project. Environmental experts emphasize the significance of the Gulf of California’s unique ecosystem, which is home to many endangered species, including various whale species. According to recent studies, increased industrial activity could have irreversible effects on biodiversity and marine habitats in the region.
Moreover, local communities dependent on fishing and eco-tourism have voiced concerns about the project’s potential impact on their livelihood. They appeal to authorities to consider sustainable development models that protect both the environment and their economy.
The international community is encouraged to keep a close watch on this situation, as it unfolds and potentially sets precedents for future interactions between industrial development and environmental conservation.