 |
|
HOME :: FACTS :: ACTIVITIES :: SUPPORT :: PHOTOS :: ARCHIVES :: STETSON UNIVERSITY |
|
:: AIR's Main Activities The daily destruction of forests that occurs in Guatemala is a serious problem that must be confronted immediately. Each year more than 1620 km2 are deforested in Guatemala. This has already had a severe negative impact on the environment: water sources are quickly disappearing, 65% of Guatemalan soil is considered highly susceptible to erosion, air quality is deteriorating rapidly. In addition, deforestation leads to the depletion of essential nutrients in the soils, especially those used for agricultural activities. As these soils become drained of nutrients and no longer support agriculture, populations migrate to virgin areas and conduct slash and burn activities, continuing the cycle of deforestation. The replanting of trees on community lands, in addition to otherwise conserving the environment, replenishes soil nutrients, and therefore decelerates the destruction of virgin forests that remain in Guatemala. For this reason, AIR works to initiate continuous reforestation programs at the community level. All of AIR's projects are based on the philosophy that direct community involvement in all phases of the projects, from their design to their implementation, is essential for the success and sustainability of project activities. The idea is that upon cessation of AIR's involvement, the groups it works with will have the knowledge and the motivation to personally follow through with the environmental conservation programs established.
Related Links:
|
