— Guyana provides over $15.2 billion in ecosystem services

With its emerald rainforests, vibrant skies, and rich biodiversity, Guyana has emerged as a global leader in nature-based economics, providing over US$15.2 billion annually in ecosystem services.

This remarkable valuation was highlighted today by President Dr. Irfaan Ali at the opening of the Global Biodiversity Summit, currently underway in the country’s capital.

“The forests of Guyana, not being cleared, not being sold, not being converted, are providing more economic value by standing than they would if destroyed,” the President said.

Dr. Ali reminded delegates that Guyana’s commitment is rooted in a larger planetary responsibility.

“This is the very essence of nature, positive economy, and its value is not unique to Guyana. It is echoed in every forest, reef, wetland, savannah, and mountain on Earth,” he told the summit.

The country’s forests are home to nearly 8,000 plant species, many of which thrive only in this ancient and ecologically rich region.

“Guyana is a sanctuary of botanical wonder,” President Ali proclaimed, adding that conservation efforts are not only ecological necessities but also powerful economic tools.

“We are committed to scaling blended finance to de-risk investment in nature-based enterprises, piloting biodiversity credits that reward stewardship, expanding the debt-for-nature swap model based on our own experience, and supporting community-driven finance models that place Indigenous leadership at the center.”

Against this backdrop of policy and finance, the natural spectacle of Guyana remains at the heart of its call for cooperation and greater financing.

President Ali described the nation’s ecosystems as nothing short of symphonic.

“Here in our beloved country, nature doesn’t whisper. It sings, it soars and it roars. Guyana is home to more than 1,200 species of birds, a staggering number that rivals or even surpasses much larger nations,” he said.

In addition to its avian diversity, Guyana hosts approximately 225 mammal species, including the majestic golden jaguar and the elusive giant river otter “the gentle guardian of our rivers and wetlands,” Ali noted.

The summit, which runs through July 25, is expected to solidify political commitment around a shared global biodiversity agenda.

During day one sessions were held focusing on aligning the Alliance’s goals with existing international frameworks, setting the tone for deeper collaboration in the days to come.

Guyana will also house the Global Biodiversity Alliance’s secretariat with the mission of monitoring conservation pledges and fostering global cooperation.