Embarking on a Sustainable Adventure
Our adventure began with an air of anticipation as we embarked on a 10-hour journey, coordinated by our friends at the Rainforest Alliance. Setting out from our home in the beautiful state of Quintana Roo, we traversed through the landscapes of Belize, and finally crossed into the heart of Guatemala. Our mission was twofold: to deepen our understanding of sustainable forestry practices and to explore the nuanced differences in how Guatemala and Mexico operate within the wood industry. With a spirit of exploration and a dedication to responsible environmental stewardship, we embarked on our journey, eager to uncover the valuable lessons these lands had to offer.
Warm Welcome in Flores, Petén
Situated on Lake Peten Itza, the island welcomed us with its lively array of colourful buildings and the warm hospitality of its residents. It was here that we connected with Reyneer Morales, a committed member of the Rainforest Alliance team. With his deep ties to the Petén region, Reyneer was an invaluable source of knowledge and insight. His familiarity with the island and its community was both apparent and heartening, providing us with a sense of immediate belonging in this captivating setting.
Insights at Forescom
Our schedule was tight but enriching. On our first day, we visited Forescom, a local sawmill and timber supplier. Represented and supported by prominent organisations like the Rainforest Alliance and the European Union, Forescom demonstrates a remarkable commitment to reducing waste and enhancing forest resource utilisation. They skilfully make use of every part of their resources, offering products such as gum, copal, allspice, ramon seed, xate, and honey, alongside their timber. This diversified approach not only maximises the utility of forest resources but also opens up a broader range of economic opportunities for the local community. Their innovative practices in sustainability and resource utilisation set an exemplary model for others in the industry, including us at Maya Lumber.
Exploring Carmelitas: A Model of Sustainability
The following day, still accompanied by Reyneer, our guide and now friend, we journeyed deeper into the heart of the Guatamalan landscapes to visit the concession of Carmelitas. The 2-3 hour drive on rugged dirt tracks was a journey through time, leading us to a community that was a testament to harmony with nature. Operating for over 25 years and recently granted another 25-year license, their approach to forest management is a model that the world can learn from. As we explored, we noticed significant differences in the approach taken by this Guatemalan community-run concession compared to the ejidos in Mexico. For instance, the Guatemalans are effectively promoting eco-tourism within their surrounding towns, and their activities in reforestation are noteworthy.
Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations
Our visits to Forescom in Petén and the forestry concession in Carmelitas have been eye-opening, highlighting the importance of sustainable forestry and community engagement. Forescom's approach to utilizing non-timber products alongside sustainable timber practices has shown us the potential of diversifying forest-based economies. Meanwhile, Carmelitas impressed us with its integration of community needs and environmental stewardship. These experiences have inspired us at Maya Lumber to embrace more sustainable and inclusive practices in our operations. Embracing the models of Forescom and Carmelitas, we aim to positively influence both the environment and our partner communities, steering towards a more sustainable future in forestry.
A Journey's End, A Sustainable Future Ahead
As we retraced our drive back to Akumal, our hearts and minds were full of the rich experiences and learnings from Flores Petén and Carmelitas. This journey was more than an exploration; it was a reaffirmation of our mission at Maya Lumber to be at the forefront of sustainable forestry.
Join Us on This Sustainable Path
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