PANAMA CITY, PANAMA (Piero Stewart, Energy Analytics Institute, 5.May.2025) — What was once considered waste is now a symbol of hope.
This, owing to the joint efforts of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. (Bladex), the Panama Canal, and the Botellas de Amor Foundation, to create a new pedestrian bridge has been inaugurated in the watershed of the Panama Canal, built from over 3 tons of recycled plastic.
The watershed is crucial at an international level as it is the source of water for the operation of the canal. It is vital for global maritime navigation, facilitating the transit of ships between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and connecting 170 countries through 180 maritime routes. It is also key for the supply of drinking water for the Panamanian population. The watershed also hosts communities that are conscious of protecting their environment and a rich biodiversity, with significant protected areas.
This initiative prevented this plastic waste from ending up in landfills, rivers, or oceans, transforming an environmental problem into a concrete solution that enhances the quality of life for communities and protects the natural environment, Bladex announced on 5 May 2025 in an official statement.
The structure, measuring 81m in length, connects 4 communities, significantly improving the mobility and safety of 300+ people. Beyond its functionality, this bridge symbolizes the power of collaboration to promote sustainable solutions and generate tangible social impact.
This initiative is part of Bladex’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy and reflects its commitment to sustainable development in Panama and the region. It is the second bridge of this type delivered by the institution; the first was inaugurated in 2023 in the Kosovo community of Puerto Caimito, Panama, as part of its vision to convert environmental challenges into opportunities for Latin American communities.
The project was built using plastic profiles manufactured by Fundación Botellas de Amor from recycled materials and benefited from the operational and logistical support of the Panama Canal. The collaboration also included collection campaigns, environmental awareness initiatives, and volunteer activities led by Bladex and the Panama Canal.
This bridge not only connects communities; it connects purposes. It confirms that when Latin America works in partnership, the results become stories that inspire. Therefore, Bladex will continue to promote initiatives with tangible impact that can progressively expand throughout the region.
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By Piero Stewart reporting from Panama City. © 2025 Energy Analytics Institute (EAI). All Rights Reserved.
