The Brigades Institute for Sustainable Development
Mamoni Valley Preserve, Panama
Brittany Whitaker
"14 Global Brigades students completed the first ever Brigades Institute for Sustainable Development (BISD) event in Panama dedicated to rethinking the way youth, and the entire world, does development work. This workshop challenged the perspectives and pursuits of students, Global Brigades and the entire development world. Students found the conversations mind-blowing, frustrating and inspiring. These debates and discussions left many of us with a new outlook on what we do and a new perspective into the future of our Earth."
The Brigades Institute for Sustainable Development (BISD) was the first workshop held by Global Brigades and Earth Train. The weeklong workshop was held at Earthtrain's center in the Mamoni Valley Preserve, just outside of Chepo, Panama. The workshop discussed Sustainable Development, with a focus on changing the way society looks at and approaches it. Each day was packed with information that led to a better understanding of the local area, its people, and the struggles within both. Through many lectures, interviews and hikes we had the opportunity to learn and appreciate the land first hand while also getting a glimpse of the current development struggles in the valley.
The land in the valley has been deforested for cattle ranching, which continues to damage the land and the micro climate that the rain forests provide. As the trees are cleared, the moisture created by them also disappears, resulting in a change in eco-system. We were able to interview the local community and the Earthtrain staff, who are also valley locals. To hear the concerns and challenges of an area and its community by the people who endure them each day, was incredibly moving. Although they understand that their practices are damaging the area, it's how they live and provide for their families: without other jobs, they are left with little options.
Earthtrain staff led us on a six and a half hour hike into the depths of the rain forest: by scaling up the side of waterfalls and rock climbing, we were within a kilometer from the top of the continental divide. As the valley is home to many dangerous and deadly species (some of which we actually saw!), this was the first time Earth Train has ever led a group of students into the rain forest.
The canopy was thriving with life, in every direction and on every scale. The unique micro climate creates a moist habitat for many animals and plants that live off of one another. For example, the many trees and plants filter the water so thoroughly that the stream water is cleaner than the rainwater falling from the sky! Through this one hike, we all developed an overwhelming connection with nature and each other. Having the opportunity to work with people that are standing up for their life, environment and future was extremely inspiring, but with the hardships and degradation of the land around them, their courage stands out even more.
The ecological diversity within the rain forest was quickly evident - we were lucky enough to catch some rare glimpses at it's inhabitants!
This mother sloth was found nursing its baby right in E.T.'s yard!
Another interesting thing about Earth Train's center is its construction. All of the open structures built on the grounds are all made from salvaged wood from the land - the staff went out into the rain forest and found fallen trees, cut them up into manageable sizes, and carried them all back to be planed.
These structures are a great example of vernacular design integrated with new materials: wood frame structure, thatched roof & corrugated metal ridge. Even the paths throughout the grounds are reinforced with tree trunk slices from fallen trees.
In terms of energy, they have their own hydro-electric pump (seen below, left) which is powered from a small stream on site. This one pump provides enough power for the entire site. They also use composting toilets to conserve water and energy.
Although I've talked a lot about the environment, lessons, and site, the all of the people I met were what really inspired me. The locals to the valley, those that put BISD together, and those that I worked alongside of were all incredibly empowering.
All photos taken by BISD consultant Jonathan Lee.
To see more pictures of BISD from Jonathan, CLICK HERE!
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