A call to action for all Guyanese as GFC champions forest conservation

Commissioner of the Guyana Forestry Commission, Edward Goberdhan, has called for all stakeholders—including government agencies, the private sector, partners, conservationists, and local communities—to step up their commitment to preserving our forests.

He delivered this powerful message at an event marking World International Day of Forests, held at the University of Guyana Berbice Tain Campus, under the theme “Forests and Food.”

“As we celebrate, let us also act. Let us plant trees that bear fruit, protect the habitats that sustain wildlife, and educate future generations on the critical link between forests and food security. By working together, we can ensure that Guyana’s forests continue to provide for us, not just today, but for generations to come,” he said.

Guyana boasts a remarkable total forest area of 18.3 million hectares, which includes 12.5 million hectares of State Forest. In Berbice alone, there are 650,000 hectares or approximately 1.6 million acres of issued State Forest and 120 concessions.

Region 6 has approximately 80 concessions covering just over 1.1 million acres or 450,000 hectares

Region 6 and Berbice as a whole is therefore an important component of the Forestry Sector both in terms of production and Forest Holdings where close to 100,000 cubic meters of timber produce comes from this region,” he revealed.

Goberdhan added,”Annual Production 475,000 cubic meters Employment over 25,000 directly and indirectly mainly Guyanese including many indigenous persons and women. 45 Sawmills and Lumber Yards in Region 6.”

According to Goberdhan, a Supplier of construction materials for domestic construction, materials for further processing like high-end products furniture, dressed lumber, prefab housing, flooring, decking for both local and international market.

“Let us invest in research, embrace indigenous knowledge, and support policies that promote the sustainable use of forest resources for food and nutrition,” stated.