Historic Pledge to Protect 90% of Tropical Forests

A groundbreaking commitment from Suriname promises lasting protection for 90% of its tropical forests, setting one of the most ambitious global conservation benchmarks yet.

“We understand and accept the immense responsibility of stewarding over 15 million hectares of tropical rainforest in a world that is seeing her forests fall day in and day out,” said President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons.

The plan, announced during Climate Week, far surpasses the global 30×30 goal to safeguard 30% of nature by 2030. Backed by $20 million in environmental funding, it will strengthen conservation laws, recognise ancestral Indigenous and Maroon lands, and expand eco-tourism and carbon-credit opportunities. With more than 93% forest cover already intact, Suriname’s move cements its role as one of the planet’s few true carbon sinks — a powerful reminder that protecting nature at scale is still possible.