Through the Equitable Resilience Program with EPA, SMM is working with 15 communities across the south and southwest. Located in the southernmost tip of Texas, Brownsville sits on land historically inhabited by the Coahuiltecan tribes, who have been divided by the colonization of the US/Mexico border region and the construction of the wall. It is one of the oldest settlements in Texas, and sits directly across the Rio Grande River from Matamoros, Mexico.

The region is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty which provides habitat for many migratory birds, making the area a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a growing ecotourism industry. The area was historically vegetated with palm trees and floodplain forests, almost all of which has been lost due to urbanization.

Climate impacts of concern are extreme heat, hurricanes and flooding due to its coastal location and projected sea-level rise. Brownsville has some of the lowest income Census tracts in the nation, along with the highest number of Colonias—unincorporated housing developments lacking formal infrastructure. Brownsville experiences localized pollution from industry, agriculture and transportation emissions, particularly at border crossings. Immigrant and poor communities are disproportionately impacted.

Xi’im Ek Balam’s proposed ecovillage sits on a unique tract of land that offers a rare opportunity for ecologically and socially sensitive development with potential to address local environmental justice challenges. Flower World Ecovillage will serve as a community space and peace center, located at a powerful connection point between the U.S. and Mexico, offering the opportunity for both residents and visitors to reconnect to the land and sustainable lifeways.

The ecovillage will pilot alternative forms of sustainable community development including circular economies, climate resilience education, pollution monitoring, sustainable food production and ecological building practices. Ultimately, the ecovillage aims to leave a legacy of environmental stewardship and community empowerment in Brownsville.