Protecting ecosystems through forest resource management in protected areas

Introduction

This initiative was a Triangular Cooperation effort, developed with the support of the ADELANTE Window, aimed at developing effective strategies for the conservation and sustainable management of forest resources in protected areas. These strategies are crucial for ensuring the livelihoods of local communities while protecting the flora and fauna that depend on these unique ecosystems, particularly in Guatemala.

Objectives

This Triangular Cooperation Initiative promoted capacity building among the Partnership entities to create a model for forest resource management in protected areas, focusing on the protection of ecosystems and the active participation of local communities.

Leveraging expertise for sustainable forest management

Through this Triangular Cooperation Initiative, the knowledge and expertise of the provider entities were made available to the Beneficiary entity, strengthening conservation capacities in Guatemala:

• Provider entities:
  • National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP, Mexico)
  • National Parks Autonomous Agency (OAPN, Spain)
• Beneficiary entity:
  • National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP, Guatemala)

The provider entities shared their expertise in:

• Biological monitoring
• Forest management
• Fire prevention and control

Developing a forest resource management model

The knowledge provided through this initiative was leveraged to:

• Develop a model for forest resource management in protected areas, with a specific focus on Guatemala.
• Strengthen CONAP’s capacities in:
  • Planning sustainable conservation strategies.
  • Coordinating protected area management efforts.
  • Implementing effective conservation policies and models.

By enhancing forest conservation strategies, strengthening local governance, and promoting sustainable management, this initiative contributes to long-term environmental protection and the resilience of Guatemala’s protected areas.

Project activities

This initiative was structured around six key activities, designed—based on an initial assessment—to create opportunities for reflection and training, ensuring the transfer of effective strategies for the conservation and sustainable management of forest resources in Guatemala’s protected areas. Key activities included:

• Capacity building: a training programme aimed at improving wildlife monitoring tools and strengthening forest fire management techniques.
• Model Implementation: developed a model for forest resource management in protected areas to strengthen effective management and support CONAP in Guatemala, adaptable for application regionally.
• Research collaboration: three seminars held in protected natural areas across Mexico, Guatemala, and Spain:
  • Biological monitoring training in Sian Ka’an Reserve (Mexico)
  • Forest fire management in Petén (Guatemala)
  • Forest management training in La Antigua Guatemala
• Community engagement: ensured sustainable futures for local communities and biodiversity protection through effective conservation strategies.

Cross-cutting themes

Throughout the initiative, a gender-based approach was applied, alongside a focus on environmental sustainability and climate change. These themes were integrated through:

• Experience-sharing and case studies.
• The forest resource management model, ensuring its inclusive and climate-resilient design.
• Active and inclusive participation of local communities, in line with the Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA).

By fostering sustainable conservation strategies, strengthening governance, and promoting regional collaboration, this initiative contributes to long-term environmental protection and the resilience of protected areas in Guatemala and beyond.

Results

Through this Triangular Cooperation Initiative, the knowledge and expertise of the Partnership's member entities in forest resource management in protected areas were leveraged to develop the model titled "Protected Area Management Guidelines" (Guía para la Gestión de Áreas Protegidas).

Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The results of this initiative have contributed to and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

• Target 15.4: "By 2030, ensure the conservation of mountain ecosystems, including their biodiversity, in order to enhance their capacity to provide benefits that are essential for sustainable development."
• Target 15.2: "By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests, and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally."
• Target 15.5: "Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and by 2020, protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species."

By promoting sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience, this initiative supports long-term environmental protection and the sustainable development of protected areas in the region.

Implementing partner

National Council of Protected Areas - CONAP (Guatemala)