Hello Readers, welcome to This edition. Every year, on March 21, the world observes International Day of Forests. It is a time to reflect on the invaluable role forests play in sustaining life; and this year’s theme, “Forests and Food”, highlights how forests contribute to food security, nutrition, and livelihoods — especially in a country like Guyana, where our forests are a vital part of our daily lives.
Forests: A vital source of food and nutrition
Guyana’s forests are more than just lush greenery; they are a vital source of food and sustenance for many communities, particularly those of Indigenous and rural populations. Our forests provide an abundance of fruits, such as awara, cookrit, hog plum, and sapodilla, which are enjoyed both fresh and in traditional dishes. Nuts, like cashew and Brazil nuts, are also harvested; while wild honey collected from the forests is a natural sweetener that is valued for its health benefits.
Beyond plant-based foods, forests also support traditional food sources, like labba, deer, and wild-caught fish such as hassar and pacu, which are essential to many indigenous diets. Cassava, grown in and around forested areas, is a staple ingredient used to make farine and cassava bread, both of which have been key components of Guyanese cuisine for generations.
Our forests are not just crucial for food security; they also play a role in Guyana’s eco-tourism sector. Visitors to places like the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation, Kanuku Mountains, and Rupununi savannahs can experience forest-based cuisine firsthand, whether it’s enjoying a traditional Indigenous meal or tasting fresh tropical fruits from the trees. By protecting our forests, we are safeguarding a natural food source, cultural heritage, and a key part of our country’s sustainable future.
Why forests matter beyond food
Forests do much more than provide food. They regulate our climate, store carbon, purify air and water, and serve as homes to diverse species of wildlife. In Guyana, where more than 85% of our land is covered by forests, they also play a crucial role in our economy: supporting sectors like forestry, tourism, and research.
However, forests are under threat from illegal logging, mining, and deforestation. Sustainable forest management is key to ensuring future generations continue to benefit from these resources. This is why agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) work to enforce environmental laws and promote responsible use of forests.
The role of the EPA in protecting Guyana’s forests
The EPA plays a critical role in ensuring the sustainable management of Guyana’s forests. Through environmental regulations, monitoring, and enforcement, the Agency ensures that activities such as logging, mining, and large-scale agriculture do not lead to irreversible damage to Guyana’s forests. The EPA also focuses on environmental education and awareness, working closely with communities to promote conservation efforts. By educating the public on the value of forests and how they can be sustainably managed, the Agency helps to ensure that both present and future generations can continue to rely on forest resources.
How you can help
Every Guyanese has a role to play in protecting our forests. Here are a few simple ways you can contribute in this regard:
* Support sustainable products by choosing ethically-sourced wood and forest-based products.
* Reduce waste, and recycle where possible, to minimize environmental pollution.
* Learn more about forest conservation efforts, and share this knowledge with others.
* Get involved in tree planting activities to help restore degraded forest areas.
Celebrating International Day of Forests in Guyana
As part of celebrations for International Day of Forests 2024, the EPA would be participating in an exhibition hosted by the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC). This event would showcase the importance of forests in Guyana, and allow the public to engage with experts on forest conservation and sustainable management. We encourage everyone to visit and learn more about how we can work together to protect our environment.
Follow EPA on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on our activities, projects, and ways you can get involved. Let’s continue working together to preserve our forests, ensuring they remain a thriving source of food, livelihood, and biodiversity for generations to come!
Happy International Day of Forests!
