Nicaragua Environment Profile 2012

Environmental consciousness is underdeveloped in Nicaragua and subordinate to the push for growth. The country’s main ecological problems are degradation and erosion of land, maritime protection, and uncontrolled logging. Although Nicaragua still has the largest acreage of rainforest in Central America, due to legal and illegal logging it may disappear within the next 10 years. This is especially apparent in the northeast. There, poor farmers and timber companies alike have cut back the natural forests. Economic growth usually stems from expanding the use of resources rather than from productivity gains, especially in the agricultural sector. Therefore, Nicaragua’s environmental sustainability is at risk if the economy continues to grow without necessary adjustments made for sustainability. The country has an institutional and legal framework capable of addressing environmental matters, has signed all relevant international treaties, and has collaborated internationally on environmental matters. However, the lack of financial resources and the social patterns of skills and attitudes pose serious obstacles to an effective approach to environmental challenges.