Forestry in Puerto Rico – May 2025

A new study on Puerto Rico’s forestry sector outlines how the island can build a sustainable wood-production chain that supports conservation, climate resilience and local economies. The paper includes field-based insights from IE Director Andrés Rúa González, co-author, as well as co-founder of Puerto Rico Hardwoods, whose experience in applied sustainable forestry helped shape the recommendations. The authors call for stronger stakeholder collaboration, improved processing capacity and better use of post-storm woody debris. Their roadmap aligns directly with the Institute of Ecotechnics’ mission and the long-term sustainable forestry work carried out at Las Casas de la Selva.

The Institute of Ecotechnics recognizes the publication of Strategic Guidelines for the Sustainable Management of Forest Resources in Puerto Rico, an important new study that outlines a practical roadmap for strengthening the island’s forestry sector. The report identifies major opportunities for sustainable wood production, improved processing capacity, and a circular economy approach that reduces waste and increases community benefits.

The study includes field-based contributions by IE director Andrés Rúa González,and co-author, and also co-founder of Puerto Rico Hardwoods. His experience in practical sustainable forestry operations at Las Casas de la Selva provided critical insights into the realities of wood harvesting and salvage, local processing, permitting, and market development. His perspective ensured that the recommendations reflect real-world conditions and the challenges faced by practitioners who work directly with Puerto Rico’s woods and forests.

The report proposes improved coordination across government agencies, landowners, non-profits and forest managers, as well as the creation of a stakeholder Advisory Council to guide policy implementation. It also emphasizes the value of salvaging hurricane-felled timber and turning post-storm debris into durable wood products rather than landfill waste.

These findings align with the mission of the Institute of Ecotechnics and the long-term sustainable forestry work carried out at Las Casas de la Selva. The report strengthens the case for active, research-informed forest management that protects biodiversity, supports local economies and increases resilience in a changing climate.