BCIE promotes reforestation and education in Guatemala
BCIE strengthens its environmental commitment with reforestation, education, and conservation projects in Guatemala. Volunteers have planted over 2,500 trees since 2023, supporting biodiversity, carbon capture, and sustainable development.
The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (BCIE) is strengthening its commitment to sustainability through reforestation, environmental education, and forest conservation efforts in Guatemala’s protected areas. Since 2023, BCIE volunteers have planted more than 2,500 trees across the country, supporting biodiversity and climate action.
Reforestation efforts in key ecosystems
On September 26, 2025, more than 40 BCIE volunteers planted 125 native trees in the Naciones Unidas National Park, located in Villa Nueva. This initiative contributes to the restoration of an important forest landscape within the Amatitlán Lake watershed.
The activity helps strengthen habitats for local species, enhances carbon capture, and safeguards a forest where at least 115 tree species and 165 wildlife species have been identified. “These actions not only restore natural ecosystems but also reduce pressure on ecosystem services,” BCIE highlighted in its announcement.
Environmental education and community engagement
The reforestation day also included environmental education activities. Participants collaborated in creating pollinator gardens with native plants grown in the park’s demonstration nursery. They learned how these species benefit local fauna, promote biodiversity, and naturally control pests.
In addition, volunteers received hands-on training in propagating native plants through soil preparation, seed germination, and seedling management—practices designed to build long-term conservation awareness.
Agroforestry in the Sierra de las Minas
BCIE is also supporting the planting of 375 trees in the buffer zone of the Sierra de las Minas Biosphere Reserve. This initiative integrates coffee with native species such as Inga, oak, pine, and alder to create a sustainable agroforestry system.
The program aims to prevent agricultural expansion into the reserve’s core zone while providing sustainable production alternatives for local communities. These communities will play a key role in maintaining and managing the plantations, ensuring long-term conservation results.
Commitment to Sustainability and Conservation
All these initiatives are part of BCIE’s Corporate Environmental and Social Responsibility System and its Environmental Management System, which seeks to offset paper consumption from its operations while contributing to the restoration of biologically significant areas in the region.
Through reforestation, education, and agroforestry projects, BCIE reaffirms its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development in Guatemala.
