IUCN National Committee of The Netherlands

Resulting from a conference held in September 2004 at the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, this collection of papers treats the subject of scientific research in the environmental field. The debate was organized with the aim of clarifying the influence of scientific research on society and the responsibilities researchers can and should accept in matters of ecological research. This publication summarises the lectures and case studies, and the reflections of panel members on the introductions and discussions.

The Guiana Shield region contains more than 25% of the world’s tropical rainforests, most still in pristine condition. The Guiana Shield Initiative is working to preserve this ecologically important and unique area of the earth. In order to do so, up-to-date and accurate information is needed – a greater part of which could be fulfilled by the development of a suitable monitoring system based on remote sensing methods.

The Guiana Shield has 10-15% of the world’s freshwater reserves, a virtually uninterrupted stretch of 2.5 million km2 of tropical rainforests and biodiversity that exists only in this region. This region performs vital functions for the world’s climate, the regional hydrology and the preservation of biological capital. Revenue from tourism from visitors enjoying the wonders of the Guiana Shield should be a sizeable part of the economy. The industry must be developed respecting the nature and culture of the region, with the proceeds and employment distributed amongst stakeholders.

With 2.5 million square kilometers of largely intact tropical rainforest and savannah, 10-15% of the world’s fresh water reserves and an extremely rich and highly endemic biodiversity, the Guiana Shield ranks among the most important ecological regions in the world. This report highlights the Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) of the Guiana Shield.