Guyana shield

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.