María Cristina Recalde

María Cristina Recalde was appointed Acting Minister of Environment, Water and Ecological Transition on February 11, 2025. Prior to this role, she served as Vice Minister of Environment since September 2024, bringing to the position a solid background in both public policy and corporate environmental management. She holds a degree in Environmental Engineering and two master’s degrees—one in Industrial Eco-efficiency from Universidad Internacional SEK Ecuador, and another in Water Engineering and Urban Waste Management from TECH Technological University.

Throughout her career, Recalde has led environmental initiatives in the private sector, especially within food production and distribution companies. She implemented sustainability programs guided by key performance indicators and fostered a culture of environmental awareness and efficient resource use. As Vice Minister, she promoted alliances with Indigenous and local communities to expand deforestation-free practices, encourage circular economy models, and advance climate change mitigation strategies.

Among her key accomplishments is the official launch of the Gender Plan for Ecuador’s National System of Protected Areas (SNAP), aimed at ensuring equitable and inclusive workspaces for women in conservation. She has also strengthened ties with international partners to bolster ecosystem and biodiversity protection. Minister Recalde’s leadership is defined by a commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and building resilient environmental governance.