FirstBank projects a reduction of up to 422 metric tons of CO₂ annually as a result of reforestation conducted during its two-year Rescate Costero efforts

As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability and strengthening the island’s coastal communities, FirstBank announced the progress of its Rescate Costero (Coastal Rescue) program – an initiative focused on the reforestation of vulnerable coastal areas, erosion mitigation, and environmental education. Since being launched in 2023, the program has succeeded in planting 19,198 native trees on more than 33,200 linear feet of coastline in 13 municipalities, strengthening community resilience and protecting coastal ecosystems. 

Through the days of planting and educational activities, Rescate Costero has encouraged the participation of communities, volunteers, and multisector allies, promoting awareness of the importance of preserving our coasts as natural barriers against the effects of climate change. 

As a result of the cumulative planting, the trees are projected to allow for a reduction of up to 422 metric tons of CO₂ annually. This estimate contributes to measuring the impact of coastal reforestation in reducing greenhouse gases, improving air quality, and protecting biodiversity in coastal areas, and is equivalent to approximately the annual energy consumption of 33 average households in Puerto Rico.

“At FirstBank, we believe in collective action as an engine to address Puerto Rico’s environmental challenges. Rescate Costero demonstrates how collaboration across sectors can have a real impact in our communities. Each tree we plant not only protects our coasts, but also educates and empowers those who participate in this effort,” said Ginoris López-Lay, Executive Vice President of Planning and Strategic Management at FirstBank.

Since 2023, the program has held 25 planting events in the municipalities of Aguada, Aguadilla, Arecibo, Barceloneta, Camuy, Humacao, Isabela, Loíza, Luquillo, Manatí, Naguabo, Quebradillas and Toa Baja, with the participation of more than 880 volunteers, and the support of more than 15 strategic alliances, including Assurant, EcoExploratorio, Empresas Santana, Jeep, Job Corps, Scouting America, Scuba Dogs Society, Stellantis and Vida Marina.

Rescate Costero is part of FirstBank’s Uno con el Ambiente social responsibility program, and will continue its efforts in 2026 in order to reach its goal to plant 25,000 trees while continuing to promote environmental education, community participation, and the protection of Puerto Rico’s natural resources. 

To learn more about Rescate Costero, participate in the upcoming events, and learn more about FirstBank’s initiatives, visit unoconelambiente.com, www.1firstbank.com, or access the institution’s social media networks on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn