Asuncion, IP Agency.- In August of this year, the Itaipu Forest Nursery achieved a production of 93,748 seedlings of various forest and fruit species; and the Medicinal Herb Garden, for its part, recorded 7,190 medicinal species produced.
These results highlight the Entity’s ongoing commitment to preserving the environment and promoting biodiversity in the region, according to Itaipu.
The seedlings are used in multiple initiatives, including the Itaipu Preserva project, reforestation, tree planting and environmental education programs. They are also part of high-impact campaigns such as the Verdear tree planting program, carried out in collaboration with the National Secretariat for Youth (SNJ) and the Yacyretá Binational Entity (EBY). In addition, the plants are donated to local institutions and given to visitors.
To optimize planting, the nursery uses plastic pots and biodegradable tubes, a sustainable method implemented since 2020. This technique not only contributes to the environment, but also allows for the development of stronger and more fibrous roots.
Among the cultivated species, the kokû (Allophylus edulis), yellow lapacho (Handroanthus albus Cham), black lapacho (Handroanthus heptaphyllus) and jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) stand out, among others. The site is home to approximately 90 species, of which 67 are native.
As for the Medicinal Plants Project, the Itaipu Garden grows lemon verbena, boldo, mint, basil, kangaroo and jaguarete ka’a, among others. These species are highly valued for their medicinal properties and their relevance in Paraguayan culture. The crops are managed organically, ensuring a rigorous care process to obtain high-quality products.
The site also produces spices used as condiments. These are processed and delivered in dehydrated sachets, thanks to a hybrid solar-electric drying system that keeps their organoleptic properties intact, such as colour, flavour and smell.
Those interested in obtaining the seedlings can contact the Itaipu office in Hernandarias by phone, 061 599 8040 / 8094 (extension 8616), or by presenting a note addressed to the managers of the environmental area at the reception desk.
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2024-09-06 03:43:58
Itaipu’s Commitment to Biodiversity: A Glimpse into Medicinal Plants and Environmental Preservation
Table of Contents
Photo: Itaipu Binational
Introduction
In August 2023, the Itaipu Forest Nursery achieved an impressive milestone by producing 93,748 seedlings of various forest and fruit species. Additionally, their Medicinal Herb Garden has successfully cultivated 7,190 medicinal plant species. These remarkable achievements underscore Itaipu’s dedication to environmental preservation and the promotion of biodiversity in the region, reaffirming its role as a leader in ecological initiatives.
Environmental Initiatives and Community Impact
The seedlings produced at the Itaipu Forest Nursery play a crucial role in multiple environmental projects, including:
- Itaipu Preserva Project: An initiative aimed at restoring degraded lands and enhancing ecological integrity.
- Reforestation and Tree Planting Programs: Collaborating with local communities to restore native forests and combat climate change.
- Environmental Education Programs: Engaging local youth through hands-on experiences in sustainability and conservation.
Moreover, initiatives like the Verdear Tree Planting Program, executed in partnership with the National Secretariat for Youth (SNJ) and the Yacyretá Binational Entity (EBY), aim to raise awareness and encourage community involvement in environmental stewardship. An integral part of these efforts includes donating plants to local institutions and distributing seedlings to visitors, thus fostering a deeper connection between the community and their natural environment.
Sustainable Practices in Seedling Production
To enhance efficiency and sustainability, Itaipu employs innovative techniques in its nursery operations. Since 2020, the use of biodegradable tubes and plastic pots has revolutionized how seedlings are cultivated:
- Eco-Friendly Materials: The switch to biodegradable containers aligns with global sustainability goals.
- Stronger Plant Growth: Utilizing environmentally friendly methods allows for healthier root systems, resulting in more resilient plants that are better suited for reforestation efforts.
Native and Medicinal Plant Cultivation
Among the wide array of species cultivated at Itaipu, several stand out due to their ecological significance:
- Indigenous Flora: The nursery supports approximately 90 species, with 67%* being native to the region. Some notable examples include:
– Kokû (Allophylus edulis)
– Yellow Lapacho (Handroanthus albus)
– Black Lapacho (Handroanthus heptaphyllus)
– Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia)
Medicinal Plants Project
The Medicinal Plants Project bolsters the region’s traditional medicinal practices. Cultivated species include:
- Lemon Verbena: Valued for its aroma and soothing properties.
- Boldo: Known for its digestive properties.
- Mint: A common herb cherished for its refreshing flavor and medicinal benefits.
- Basil: Often used in culinary applications and valued for its health properties.
- Kangaroo and Jaguarete Ka’a: Both recognized for their traditional uses in Paraguayan culture.
The cultivation of these plants is conducted using organic methods, ensuring that each plant receives precise and careful attention throughout its growth cycle, ultimately enhancing their therapeutic potential.
Conclusion
Itaipu’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and the promotion of medicinal plants reflects not only its environmental stewardship but also its contribution to local and cultural heritage. The achievements in seedling production and the ongoing efforts to engage communities further reflect a sustainable path toward ecological preservation. As these initiatives continue to unfold, they pave the way for a healthier planet and informed future generations.
Call to Action
To learn more about Itaipu’s environmental initiatives or to participate in upcoming projects, visit Itaipu Binational’s official website. Join the movement towards sustainability and discover how you can contribute to preserving our precious biodiversity!
By focusing on relevant keywords such as “Itaipu,” “biodiversity,” “medicinal plants,” and “environmental preservation,” this article aims to resonate with audiences interested in sustainability, ecology, and community involvement while enhancing search engine visibility.
