Proyecto Saladita: Protección Costera y Reciclaje, A.C. is a nonprofit rooted in Playa La Saladita, Guerrero, dedicated to coastal conservation in Playa La Saladita and the surrounding areas. We are honored to continue the work started over a decade ago by the Azulita Project, whose impact laid the foundation for environmental awareness in our community. With their ongoing support and mentorship, we’re building the next phase of coastal protection—driven by local leadership, grounded in experience, and powered by people who care.
A Community-Driven Effort
We guide our work with a deep commitment to sustainability, recycling, education, and community empowerment. Through volunteer-led initiatives, we create tools and opportunities that support long-term care for our natural surroundings. We believe that small communities can lead meaningful change—when given the chance to act with knowledge and purpose.
The People Behind the Project
Proyecto Saladita operates entirely through volunteer efforts, with every initiative led by individuals dedicated to making a positive impact. Our programs reflect our values of transparency, collaboration, and environmental care.
Meet our Team
VIRIDIANA
Born and raised in Zihuatanejo, Viri has a background in graphic design and years of experience in the public sector, where she worked on health and social programs that brought essential services to underserved communities. This work shaped her deep understanding of grassroots logistics, public outreach, and community impact. Now living in Playa La Saladita, Viri brings her skills and passion to environmental work through Proyecto Saladita—driven by a commitment to protect the coast she calls home and inspire local responsibility through small, consistent actions.
ANA LUISA
Ana Luisa is an independent consultant in organizational management with experience in nonprofits focused on human rights and social impact. She has worked with CEPAD, VIHAS DE VIDA, and Colectivo Meta (COMETA), and has supported community initiatives like the PERAJ mentorship program in Guadalajara. She holds a degree in International Business from the University of Guadalajara and participated in the Weltwärts international volunteer program in Germany.
SCOTT
With 25 years of experience as an IT executive, Scott has built a successful career leading technology teams and driving innovation in the ever-evolving tech industry. Having grown up in the Scouts, Scott developed a deep appreciation for nature and environmental conservation at a young age. Now, Scott is focused on applying his leadership experience to environmental issues where he can make a meaningful impact.
MARY
As Director of the Azulita Project, a nonprofit that empowers community action to prevent and reduce plastic waste, Mary is excited to share her organizational management and program development experience with Proyecto Saladita. Mary joined the Azulita team as a founding board member in 2015, and she is so pleased that Proyecto Saladita is building from and expanding the Azulita Project vision. Mary is passionate about building solutions-oriented programs that inspire people to make change.
ILIANET
A surfer since a young age, Ilianet is known in Playa La Saladita for her calm presence and deep love for the ocean. She’s a key part of her family’s restaurant; a local favorite rooted in tradition and community. She also launched a surf coaching camp, helping others experience the waves with skill and confidence.
With a degree in Economics, Ilianet brings purpose and care to her work. She’s excited to be part of a collective effort to protect the place she calls home and help build a cleaner, more resilient future for her community.
LAINIE
Lainie has worked as a biologist for the last 30 years. She and her husband Mike are cofounders of the Azulita Project, a US-based 501c3 that managed a Mexican asociación civil (nonprofit) of the same name for over a decade. This international work focused on reducing plastic pollution and increasing environmental education in the communities surrounding Los Llanos. She is thrilled to be a part of Proyecto Saladita and continue helping local and community leaders address plastic pollution issues in the Saladita community.