CATIE and CENICAÑA will work together for a sustainable sugarcane industry

• During an official visit, Colombian representatives presented a recognition to CATIE on the occasion of the institution's 50th anniversary..

October 2, 2023In a significant step towards promoting sustainability and ecosystem conservation in the sugarcane industry, representatives from Cenicaña (Colombian Sugarcane Research Center) met with authorities from CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center) on September 26. 

The Cenicaña delegation was led by the General Director, Freddy Garcés, and the Director of the Variety Program, John Jaime Riascos. From CATIE, the General Director, Muhammad Ibrahim, and the liaison for Colombia, Astrid Pulido, participated.  

The main objective of this visit was to establish a connection, identify areas of interest, and explore potential areas for future collaboration between both institutions. 

During the meeting, various discussions were held with CATIE representatives, including the Biodiversity and Productive Landscapes Forests Unit, represented by Adina Chain, and the Education Division, led by Dr. Fernando Casanoves. Additionally, the National Office of Colombia (ON Colombia) was present under the direction of Astrid Pulido. 

For a sustainable sugarcane industry 

One of the central topics was the development of restoration work in natural ecosystems in landscapes where sugarcane has a significant presence.  

Specifically, there was a keen interest in strengthening the biological corridor in the Valle de Cauca to restore the connection between the Central and Andean Mountain Ranges. This initiative would be carried out within the framework of Cenicaña's "INTEGRA" project. 

In addition to ecosystem restoration, collaborations related to water resources were mentioned, including participation in the Water for Life and Sustainability Fund initiative, as well as the "Drops" project by Biodiverse Sugarcane. 

Cenicaña expressed the need and interest in joint efforts to enhance sustainability in the institution's processes. CATIE was recognized as a natural partner for this endeavor, given its expertise in watershed restoration, creation of biological corridors, climate action, climate change mitigation, water governance, education, and training.  

It was even proposed to create an internship program for CATIE students as a way to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange between the institutions. 

Finally, as a gesture of recognition and gratitude, Dr. Freddy Garcés presented an acknowledgment on behalf of Cenicaña to Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim in commemoration of the institution's 50th anniversary. 

This meeting marks a significant milestone in the quest for sustainable solutions and environmental conservation in the sugarcane industry, demonstrating the commitment of both institutions to a more sustainable and healthier future.