Colombia officially delineates Cruz Verde‑Sumapaz páramo complex protecting 315,000 hectares

Minister of Environment Irene Vélez Torres signed Resolution 0960 of 2026, officially delimiting the Cruz Verde‑Sumapaz páramo complex. The measure protects about 314,706 ha across 25 municipalities in Cundinamarca, Meta and Huila, plus seven localities of Bogotá.

The resolution bans mining and hydrocarbon exploration in the area while recognizing existing agricultural activities. Environmental authorities must zone the territory, define use regimes and draft an environmental management plan within four years, emphasizing community participation and socio‑environmental justice.

The process follows a 2017 Constitutional Court ruling that required extensive community involvement. More than 3,300 people and 164 campesino, peri‑urban and indigenous organizations took part in the seven‑phase consultation that led to the final delimitation.