Rainforest Reforestation Initiative (BRRI)

Bocas Rainforest Reforestation Initiative (BRRI)

Offset Your Travel Carbon Footprint with a Trusted Partner

BRRI is an all-volunteer organization in Panama dedicated to reforesting the rainforest and protecting biodiversity. With low overhead costs and strong partnerships with the Panamanian Government, Rotary International, and The Volunteer Tourism Organization, BRRI is our preferred organization for offsetting travel-related carbon footprints.

Offsetting Recommendations: To make carbon offsetting straightforward, we suggest the following contributions based on your travel type:

• Recreational travel (less than a week): $25
• Commercial travel or longer recreational trips: $50
• International jet travel: $75
• Globe trotter (per month): $100

Why Choose Panama? Panama is facing a critical environmental crisis. A recent report by MiAMBIENTE, based on satellite imagery, revealed that in just two years, Panama lost 352,873 hectares of forest, primarily in Veraguas, Darién, and Coclé. This deforestation endangers Panama’s biodiversity and ecological balance. 

Panama’s Forests: Essential for the Panama Canal and Beyond

1. The Panama Canal’s Role in Global Trade
   The Panama Canal is a major global trade route, allowing approximately 14,000 ships carrying 6% of global maritime trade to transit each year. It saves ships about 8,000 miles of travel around Cape Horn, making it crucial for shipping efficiency.
2. Forests’ Role in Water Regulation
   Tropical forests in Panama contribute significantly to the water cycle. Through a process called evapotranspiration, they help regulate rainfall and replenish groundwater, which is essential for the canal’s freshwater reservoirs.
3. Dependence on Freshwater for Canal Operations
   The Panama Canal relies on freshwater locks, which consume around 50 million gallons of water per transit. This water originates from rainfall stored in reservoirs fed by the canal’s watershed.
4. Impact of Deforestation on Canal Operations
   Deforestation threatens the canal by reducing rainfall and increasing runoff, which can lead to erosion and sedimentation in rivers, affecting water quality and supply.
5. Reforestation and Conservation Efforts
   Reforestation projects like BRRI contribute to preserving the broader ecosystem, which indirectly supports the canal by maintaining Panama's biodiversity and environmental health.

By supporting BRRI, you’re helping protect Panama’s rainforests, which are essential for sustaining both the country’s rich biodiversity and the functionality of critical infrastructure like the Panama Canal. Join us in making a positive impact today.

All donations are tax deductible: Ayuda International EIN# 46-3883406