Discover five key facts about rainforest conservation in Guyana—from biodiversity and carbon storage to Indigenous leadership and global impact. Learn why this green jewel matters now more than ever.
Guyana may be one of South America’s smallest countries, but rainforest conservation plays a massive role on the world stage. With over 80% of its land covered in forests, Guyana is home to one of the most unspoiled ecosystems on the planet.
In a time when deforestation and climate change dominate headlines, Guyana stands out as a global leader in green stewardship. Here are 5 crucial things you need to know about the country’s rainforest conservation efforts—and why they matter.
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Guyana Has One of the Most Pristine Rainforests on Earth
Guyana’s forests are part of the Guiana Shield, an ancient geological formation that holds some of the richest biodiversity in the world.
These rainforests are home to:
- Over 225 mammal species, including jaguars and giant anteaters.
- More than 800 bird species, such as the harpy eagle and macaws.
- Hundreds of tree and plant species, many with medicinal value.
- A wide variety of amphibians, reptiles, and freshwater fish found nowhere else.
Guyana’s rainforest is not only a haven for wildlife, but also a life support system for the planet. Preserving it helps keep Earth’s climate stable and ecosystems in balance.
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The Rainforest Stores Billions of Tonnes of Carbon
Rainforests are natural carbon sinks—and Guyana’s is no exception. In fact, the country’s forests are estimated to store over 19.5 billion tonnes of carbon. This means Guyana plays a critical role in slowing global warming, as its forests absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere—offsetting emissions from more industrialized countries. Rather than exploit this resource, Guyana has taken a bold step: it is earning money by preserving its forests, through innovative carbon credit agreements.
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Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy is a Global Model
In 2009, Guyana became a pioneer in climate policy by launching the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). This framework allows the country to protect its forests while still developing its economy in a sustainable way.
Highlights include:
A landmark carbon finance agreement with Norway worth over USD $250 million.
A 2022 update: LCDS 2030, which includes forest carbon markets, Indigenous inclusion, and climate resilience investments.
Use of funds to support clean energy, eco-tourism, and community development.
Guyana proves that rainforest conservation and economic growth are not mutually exclusive.
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Indigenous Communities Are at the Heart of Forest Protection
Guyana’s forest is also home to nine Indigenous tribes, including the Wapishana, Macushi, and Patamona peoples. These communities have lived in harmony with the forest for centuries—using traditional knowledge to hunt, fish, and manage natural resources sustainably.
The LCDS 2030 recognizes their vital role, ensuring that:
Indigenous communities receive direct benefits from conservation revenue.
Their land rights, traditions, and ecological wisdom are respected and preserved.
They have a seat at the table in national and international climate discussions.
When we talk about rainforest conservation, we must also talk about cultural preservation and Indigenous empowerment.
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Rainforest Conservation Supports Tourism, Education, and National Pride
Rainforest conservation is not only about science or economics—it’s also about identity and pride. Guyana’s unspoiled nature is what makes it unique, and protecting it boosts:
Eco-tourism: Visitors from around the world come to explore Kaieteur Falls, Iwokrama Forest, and the Rupununi Savannah.
Education: Conservation creates opportunities for environmental science, youth programs, and community engagement.
Patriotism: More Guyanese—locally and in the diaspora—are advocating for environmental protection as a part of national heritage.
By valuing our forests, we show the world that Guyana is more than its natural resources—we are stewards of something rare and beautiful.
Rainforest conservation is not just an environmental duty for Guyana—it is a national mission, rooted in identity, sustainability, and global responsibility.
From ancient canopies to cutting-edge carbon markets, Guyana is proving that development and conservation can go hand in hand. But protecting our forests isn’t just the government’s job, its everyones!
Let’s Be the Generation That Preserved Guyana’s Rainforest!
Our rainforest is not just a patch of land—it’s our pride, our heritage, and our promise to the world. Together, we can keep Guyana green, strong, and standing tall for generations to come.
Let’s continue to protect our forests, not only for ourselves—but for the world.
Share this article. Talk about it. Take action. Guyana’s future depends on it.
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