Panama’s forum on Climate Change

Last week Panama hosted a forum on “Challenges and Opportunities from Climate Change.” The event was attended by Panama’s Environmental Minister and by representatives of the International Center for Sustainable Development, the Panama Canal and the Development Bank of Latin America-CAF.

Last week Panama hosted a forum on “Challenges and Opportunities from Climate Change.” The event was attended by Panama’s Environmental Minister and by representatives of the International Center for Sustainable Development, the Panama Canal and the Development Bank of Latin America-CAF.

The conversation brought to light that delays continue for plans to manage Panama’s protected areas. These practical models for fighting climate change aim to protect Panama’s natural attractions like Santa Fe National Park, Chagres National Park, Altos de Campana National Park & Biological Reserve, the Camino de Cruces National Park, Darien National Park, Baru Volcano National Park, La Amistad International Park and Coiba National Park.

“There are 121 protected areas in the country and only 23 have a management plan. We have to fix this delay, which is partly due to the existing regulations that keep us from getting the job done at the necessary speed,” said Environment Minister Emilio Sempris said on Monday, during a forum on climate change in the Panamanian capital.

The minister said there has to be a new and different approach to the natural areas so that now the Environment Ministry is getting down to developing campaigns that promote the benefits and attractions these properties have to offer.

“We’re planning to sign an agreement with the National Park Sovereignty to try to get people closer to the woods. That will send a clear message that Panama is fighting climate change on a practical level,” he said.

He also noted that conservation areas occupy more than 40 percent of the national territory, three times more than the world average of 12 percent.

Last December the ministry eliminated entrance fees and camping permits for national parks in order to boost ecotourism. However, there is still a long way to go to properly protect and at the same time educate about and promote Panama’s natural beauty. 

Panama’s forum on “Challenges and Opportunities from Climate Change,” in which the environment minister took part, was also attended by representatives of the International Center for Sustainable Development, the Panama Canal and the Development Bank of Latin America-CAF.