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In the forests of Tikal a curriculum for teachers takes shape around forest plants, their uses, and role in the ecosystem. Teachers bring what they learn back to their classrooms, to help educate children of Petên about their own natural heritage.
Bosque en Tikal
The forest at Tikal
Ramón
Ramón, also known as breadnut, grows throughout central America and the Caribbean. In Petén the fruits are dried and pounded into powder for hot drink and bread. Both fruit and leaves are traditional fodder for livestock. With its high antioxidant and low glycemic index, the powder has an export market. It is can also be used as a carbon sink and to restore damaged soil.
Ramón
Plantas del bosque seco
Plants of the dry forest: Jobillo, is used to stun fish for capture, and also in some cancer research; Mimbre or osier makes wicker items; Chicozapote trees produce chicle, the original ingredient of chewing gum, although now most gums are made from synthetic ingredients.
Cedro
Students studying a tree
Professor presentando una charla en el bosque
On a lengthy walk through the dry forests of Tikal, Jose, a researcher and professor, leads a teacher training workshop.
Maestra en la charla al bosque
Teacher training in the forest
Extensionista explicando plantas forestales
Edgar Palma discussing a forest tree and its uses