Rainforest Alliance

This native species reforestation project is being implemented on the pacific coast of Panama. The vast majority of this region's primary and secondary forests were cut down between the 1950's and late 1970's for subsistence agricultural and pastoral land uses. Using a mix of native species and teak, the project reforests abandoned grasslands that were formerly used for extensive cattle ranching. Some of the projects innovative environmental management practices include the production of organic fertilizer, use of an integrated pest management (IPM) program and the use of buffer zones to enhance biodiversity. The project also integrates the community by conducting environmental education activities in local schools, hiring only members of the surrounding communities, and offering literacy courses and professional training to employees.