“Guyana is a unique place, with respect to its sites, flora and fauna and heritage, and has the potential to become a showcase for the rest of the world to follow,” he said.
Dr. Pachauri committed to the challenge which lies ahead, and to ensuring that the centre is managed to the best of his ability.
During the tour of the facility, Dr. Pachauri was briefed by Director, Resource Management and Training, Iwokrama, Dr. Raquel Thomas-Caesar, on the functions of the centre, as well as the cooperative projects embarked upon.
The Iwokrama Centre has been working with a number of organisations, especially indigenous groups, to promote projects with the aim of better securing their livelihoods.
According to Thomas-Caesar, the Iwokrama Centre was established following the passage of an act in 1996, to promote better forest conservation for sustainable use.
Dr. Pachauri was briefed on the Forest Network and Chainsaw Milling projects which are currently ongoing, as well as the two weather stations which were constructed at the centre.
After the meeting, the team visited several sites, including the old timber mill, and concluded with a trip to the Essequibo River. (GINA)