Dominican Republic Reports 829% Increase in Reforestation Over a Decade

• The Dominican Republic has made significant strides in its reforestation efforts, marking a substantial increase in forested areas over the past decade. According to the 2024 Environmental Statistics Yearbook released by the National Office of Statistics (ONE), the country has expanded its reforested land by a remarkable 829%, from 14,126 hectares in 2013 to an impressive 131,338 hectares in 2023.
• The year 2023 witnessed the highest level of reforestation, surpassing previous records set in 2019 and 2013. However, the report also highlights fluctuations in reforestation rates, with declines observed in 2021 and 2022 primarily due to limited availability of imported seeds and prolonged droughts.
• To accelerate these efforts, the Dominican government launched the National Reforestation and Ecosystem Restoration Plan in June 2023. This ambitious initiative aimed to plant 20 million seedlings across 320,000 hectares within two years, to restore degraded forest ecosystems. To date, the plan has achieved a commendable 82% of its target.
• Looking ahead, the government is committed to expanding reforestation efforts even further. José Elías González, Vice Minister of Forest Resources, announced plans for a second phase of the reforestation program, aiming to cover an additional 5,000 square kilometres of the country. While this ambitious goal presents significant challenges, including securing adequate funding, the government is determined to press forward.
• The Dominican Republic’s reforestation efforts not only contribute to environmental conservation but also offer numerous socioeconomic benefits. By protecting watersheds, reducing soil erosion, and enhancing biodiversity, these initiatives support sustainable development and improve the livelihoods of local communities.

(Source: Dominican Today)