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.