Wild Animals
Wild animals are essential for a healthy planet. They keep Earth's ecosystems in balance. For example, they disperse seeds, essential for plant regeneration, and predators keep herbivores in check, preventing pests. Wild animals also provide clean water, healthy soil, and a robust natural environment that is more resilient to climate change. By protecting wild animals, we protect our own future and that of future generations.
Suriname's wildlife is unique and valuable thanks to its vast, pristine rainforest and relatively low population density. Iconic species like the jaguar, giant otter, harpy eagle, and giant armadillo still exist in healthy populations, but are under global pressure from deforestation and poaching. Suriname therefore plays a crucial role in conserving biodiversity in the Amazon region.
The Community.
Indigenous and Maroon communities in Suriname live deep in the interior, in the same areas where wildlife resides. They depend largely on the forest for food, culture, and livelihood, and hunting remains a key component of this. Precisely for this reason, it is essential that people and nature coexist in harmony. When communities are given the knowledge, resources, and rights to help protect their environment, a sustainable coexistence emerges in which both people and wildlife can continue to exist and thrive.
To keep our planet habitable for humans, both now and in the future, we must protect and keep nature and all its inhabitants healthy. Suriname is one of the few countries in the world with vast, virtually untouched natural areas and exceptional biodiversity. Our actions today determine the future. We must cherish our natural environment, because there is no Planet B.
Suriname, the most forest dense country in the world
The Guiana Shield is home to exceptional biodiversity and plays a vital role in the global fight against climate change thanks to the enormous carbon storage in its forests. Suriname lies at the heart of this region and, with approximately 90% forest cover, is among the most forested countries in the world. Due to its low population and the fact that approximately 80% of the population lives on the coast, the interior has remained largely inaccessible, leaving large swaths of the forest virtually untouched and wildlife relatively healthy.
