King Charles III praises Guyana's forest protection efforts

King Charles III urged more countries to prioritize nature conservation during his visit to Guyana, citing the nation's success in protecting its forests while generating revenue from carbon credit sales.

During a meeting with President Irfaan Ali, Charles emphasized the importance of valuing nature, stating that its worth is 'priceless.'

The monarch criticized ongoing deforestation, warning that it threatens both current and future generations' health and well-being.

Charles arrived in Guyana as part of a nine-day Caribbean tour, having previously visited the Bahamas and set to arrive in Antigua ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

President Ali praised Charles for his advocacy on climate and environmental issues, noting that Guyana has demonstrated the feasibility of low-carbon development strategies.

Guyana became the first country to issue carbon credits under a global standard in November 2022, and has since earned over $353 million from these sales.

Hess Corporation, a US-owned oil company, has agreed to purchase $750 million in carbon credits over the next decade, with 30% of the proceeds allocated to Indigenous communities.