Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bioprospecting
One of the most fascinating scientific research projects ever undertaken in
Panama could have long-lasting implications for rainforest conservation around
the globe.
With cooperation from universities and pharmaceutical companies, Smithsonian
Tropical Research Institute scientists are scouring the rainforest for compounds
that may one day become new drugs. Bioprospecting has already started produ-
cing remarkable results, with findings published in a number of academic journals.
The results place a great deal of importance on the rainforest's biodiversity, es-
pecially since further research - and by necessity conservation - potentially
equals cures for widespread diseases like cancer and tropical diseases, or assist in
developments in areas as disparate as neuroscience and agriculture. Bioprospect-
ing could lead to a huge investment in helping to both unlock the mysteries of the
rainforest and consequently preserve them. Ultimately this would make conserva-
tion both the end and the means.
Intrinsic Value
Panama's natural vegetation was originally almost all forest, though much of this
has been cleared in recent generations to create pastures and agricultural land.
Countless flora and fauna species have been wiped out. Beyond the plants and an-
imals that actually inhabit the forests, deforestation also threatens the traditional
cultures of the Emberá and Wounaan who have lived in the rainforest for genera-
tions. But the effects do not stop there. Migratory animals that pass through the
forests annually, such as bats, butterflies and birds, also sustain the impact. A
simple argument for saving the rainforest is simply that its intrinsic value is enough
to warrant increased conservation efforts.
Environmental Issues
According to the Centro de Incidencia Ambiental, 40% of Panama is covered by forest
and 33% of its land is set aside for conservation - this is more than any other Central
American country. Panama's forests also contain the greatest number of species of all the
New World countries north of Colombia.
Unfortunately, it is uncertain as to whether Panamanians will be able to live in har-
mony with their wilderness areas in the years to come. A little over 50 years ago, 70% of
Panama's total land mass was covered by forest. Today, deforestation is one of the coun-
try's gravest environmental problems. Despite a growing environmental movement, the
majority of Panamanians are not behind the issue.
