EARTH: an exemplary case of sustainable forest management
Costa Rican Forest Reserves earn recognition of the FAO
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which is a branch of United Nations, awarded EARTH University’s exemplary work in implementing processes and practices of good forest management and its contribution to the forest sustainability.
EARTH University has 3,376 hectares (8,342 acres) consisting of tropical humid forest, secondary forest, and specific and mixed forest plantations. One purpose of EARTH plantations is to produce sustainable bananas that are marketed to the United States. The profits derived from commercial exploitation are entirely devoted to the scholarship fund.
The university depends on its continuing education and community development programs to perform the task of disseminating knowledge about forest management to farmers, grassroots organizations, and education centers in order to have a positive impact on the community.
FAO received nominations from Chile, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Uruguay, and finally selected 30 exemplary cases, 10 of which are in Costa Rica. Costa Rican winning organizations are: EARTH University, Cantonal Hojancha Agricultural Center, the Monte Alto Reserve, Barca S.A., Fundecor, Ferlo S.A., Orosi and Cacao Farms, Kaminal Farm, the Nacientes Forestry Group, and Fila Marucha Farm.
EARTH University: Education by Example
“For EARTH University it is paramount that this award be recognized, as it represents more than 25 years of our institution’s work. EARTH incentivizes sustainable management and we are agents of change by example. Conserving and regenerating natural forests and promoting ecotourism and research activities is our day to day,” said Victor Morales, a professor of forestry and manager of the forestry work experience course.
As part of the recognition, EARTH and the other case examples have been published in the book, “Exemplary Cases of Sustainable Forest Management”.
Victor Morales, professor of forestry and manager of the forestry work experience course and some students.
