22 March 2019

 

Trees and other urban greenery can make an important contribution to the quality of life in Paramaribo, yet in 2019 there is insufficient appreciation for trees and the planting of them in the capital. Concrete takes the upper hand and the environmental, social and economic benefits that the trees can offer remain unused. That is why Tropenbos Suriname launched its twinning project "Towards a Green and Livable Paramaribo" on March 22, 2019. Urban greenery contributes, among other things, to a better micro-climate, giving fruit, recreation, a better environment, combating flooding, and improving the state of mind of citizens.

The two-year project was established in collaboration with the Dutch twinning partner, the Faculty of Geo Information Sciences and Earth Observation at the University of Twente (ITC), and is funded by the UTSN twinning facility.

The aim of the project is to promote a greener Paramaribo in which ecosystem services contribute to a healthy and more livable environment for its inhabitants.

During the seminar, various stakeholders from government, civil society and scientific organizations were present, each dealing with one or more aspects of urban greenery. The introduction of both twinning partners was followed by a presentation on what urban green is and an interactive session on urban green in Paramaribo on a map. A member of the United Tour Guides of Suriname, also addressed the public about urban greenery from a different angle. Finally, the project, the activities and the accompanying planning were presented and the seminar was closed after a short discussion.

It is clear that urban greenery is an issue that for many is literally and figuratively close to home and that a broad involvement of both authorities and citizens is important. Although the project focuses on Paramaribo, it can provide insights for applications in other districts. Suriname will honor its status as the greenest country in the world if our capital Paramaribo also radiates green. The UTSN Twinning project will contribute to "Sustainable Development Goal 11" of the United Nations: a safe, inclusive, resilient and sustainable city. The motto is therefore: Paramaribo green, do it together!