In Suriname, rural communities of indigenous people and maroons living in rainforest areas have traditionally used non-wood forest products (NWFP) as a source of medicines, utensils and income.
Earlier studies (Asraf and Hilgerink, 2000; FAO, 1999a; FAO, in prep.) highlighted the importance of NWFP such as live animals, bushmeat and medicinal plants. These studies also stressed the lack of statistical data on NWFP in Suriname.
In order to improve the availability of statistical data on NWFP, a pilot study was carried out in Suriname under the EC-FAO Partnership Programme. The objective of this study is to elaborate, improve and test methodologies for the collection, analysis and maintenance of statistical data on NWFP in Suriname.
This methodology should:
• provide reasonable estimates of production,
consumption and trade in NWFP;
• be widely applicable and relevant to other
Caribbean countries;
• be cost effective, adaptable and feasible with the limited human resources available.
The current status of NWFP in Suriname was reviewed using information from legislative and other relevant documents. Available statistical data was collected and reviewed to identify NWFP of major importance in Suriname.
Using information gathered during interviews with different stakeholders, the current method of data collection and analysis of NWFP in Suriname was documented. Based on this documentation, a methodology is proposed which aims to improve the availability of statistical data on NWFP in Suriname.
This study will focus on NWFP which are commercialized on the international level. Once NWFP enter international trade circuits, it can be assumed that the use of these products is increasing. This increase requires appropriate regulations and control mechanisms. In order to assure the sustainable management of resources providing NWFP and to define rules, regulations and control mechanisms, statistical data on the production and commercialization of NWFP are essential. Local consumption of and trade in NWFP, although of socio-economic importance, are difficult to assess and were considered to have little impact on forest resources. Therefore, the proposed methodology will focus on internationally traded rather than locally used NWFP.