As Guyana’s energy industry advances, measures are being taken to mitigate the effects of energy-related emissions while also creating aesthetically pleasing communities. One such initiative is a US$3 million (GYD$600 million) national tree planting project that enhances the country’s already robust forestry management strategy.
The project, which kicked off on March 21, will see 50,000 trees planted throughout the 10 administrative regions of Guyana. It will be rolled out in phases over seven years and will see the planting of palms, ornamentals, and local tree species.
Leading the project is the Protected Areas Commission, with support from the Guyana Forestry Commission, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute, the Environmental Protection Agency, local businesses, and several government ministries.
The project is the brainchild of President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.
As the country strives to maintain a delicate balance between extracting energy to lift its citizens out of poverty and combatting the climate crisis, it continues to be a leader in forest management and addressing food security. This is according to Foreign Secretary and Chairman of the PAC Board of Directors Robert Persaud.
Addressing attendees at the launch event, Persaud said the project falls in line with the Guyana government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 geared towards combating climate change.
The country already boasts impressive environmental credentials – with over 18 million hectares of forest, it holds the title of the second highest percentage of forest cover on earth. The forests also store 18% of the world’s forest carbon, 20% of the world’s fresh water and a low deforestation rate that is 90% lower than other tropical countries.
