SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT

At VWL, the forest management system is in accordance with the Code of Practice (CoP) and other GFC guidelines. The applied logging system is an integrated component of the sustainable forest management system that is based on natural regeneration of the remaining forest. The logging methods are expected to be efficient as well as ecologically acceptable. A system of reduced-impact timber harvesting is therefore practiced.

The forest management system is also tailored to the length of the felling cycle. The main characteristics of the proposed forest management system are:

a) The management cycle is set dependant on the size of the concession.

b) All harvesting activities are based on reduced impact logging principles and practices.

The key features are that operational planning is based on the following:

a) pre-harvesting inventories of 100-hectare blocks, with the inventory completed up to one year before harvesting commences

b) The preparation of tree location maps

c) Tree selection exercises based on predetermined diameter limits

d) The alignment and construction of skid trails

e) Tree marking practices (in the main determining in which direction the tree should be felled considering the position of the skid trail and the location of protected trees and other merchantable trees).

f) Directional felling

g) Low impact skidding

h) Log market operations (log sorting-by species, dimensions or end-use, tagging, documentation)

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

SOCIAL EFFORTS

VWL remains committed to the improvement of the welfare of its employees and the indigenous communities where they live. 

Support to Hinterland Communities

Contributions made over the years in support of the hinterland Communities:

a) Medical outreach programmes: VWL collaborated with the Association of Bible Churches (ABC) and provided a free an eye clinic to members of the Bamboo Landing Community and surrounding villages.

b) Employment of indigenous peoples: VWL employs up to 70% of its labour force from indigenous communities, affording them transportation to and from the concession, and paying competitive wages.

c) VWL also supports the small loggers’ associations by purchasing logs and piles from them.

d) Donations: Donations are a regular feature of the company’s corporate social responsibility.

Actions Included:

a) Construction of a small crossing/bridge within the Botanical Gardens.

b) A small quantity of lumber for the construction of a kitchen to serve hot meals donated to the Hururu Indigenous Community. 

c) Annual distribution of food hampers to senior citizens in the upper Berbice riverine district near Bamboo Landing.

d) Transportation support for indigenous communities near Bamboo Landing.

e) In the past, VWL made donations of mainly generators to communities in the hinterland

ECONOMIC EFFORTS

VWL’s core timber business has helped position Guyana as a major exporter of high-grade timber products (see Figure 1). VWL has managed to secure and maintain markets in the USA, New Zealand, Holland and the Caribbean where high standards and ancillary requirements for imported timber prevail.

VWL has been a major driver in the development of forestry practices in the upper Regions 6 and 10 respectfully. The development of Bamboo Landing has been a major hub for key social development in the upper Berbice district. Bamboo Landing has been the main source of lumber for the domestic housing boom in the Calcuni-Hururu-Kwakwani District. In addition, VWL’s operations have led to many ancillary businesses in the transportation sub-sector and in the trade in fuel and rations. Hundreds of persons have acquired skills from VWL’s business over the years which they have used for promoting their own careers or businesses in the forestry sector.

Goals and Strategy       

The objectives of VWL as stipulated in its Corporate Policy Statement are:-

a) To apply sustainable forest management practices to the forest resources entrusted to the company and to ensure that the resources are utilized for the benefit of the people of Guyana. 

b) To be a responsible corporate citizen by complying with all applicable policies, laws and guidelines.

c) To support the employment and development of all rural peoples generally and to protect and conserve indigenous assets.

d) To respond positively to the needs of nearby communities and other genuine stakeholders through consultations and to promote and foster a genuine relationship among all stakeholders.

e) To provide employment opportunities and training for Guyanese of all backgrounds and to ensure their safety, health and welfare.

Corporate Discipline, Responsibility

VWL has duly paid its statutory taxes, royalties and fees in a timely manner. VWL has consistently honoured all remuneration and contract-based commitments. VWL prepares corporate audited statements every year.

In its operations, VWL ensures full attention to the training of its employees and the use of appropriate occupational health and safety practices.