Panama’s economy has always been tied to its unique location. Dating back to the Spanish gold trade in the 17th century, this tiny isthmus has been the focus of trade, natural resource extraction, and transcontinental economic exchange for centuries. These days it’s no different. The Panama Canal is being expanded and Panama City is becoming a mecca for foreign business and banking. All of this can, however, come at a cost to the environment. Industry – whether in the form of tourism or mining operations – can exact a huge toll on nature. When roads are built, real-estate developments, hydroelectric projects, and farms often follow.

Panama’s 76 protected areas are composed of national parks, marine parks, wildlife reserves, protected wetlands, and buffer forests. Altogether these areas cover nearly two million hectares (almost 5 million acres), some 25 percent of the country’s total area. Most protected areas are a part of the country’s 13 national parks or marine parks. There is also one massive international park (Parque Internacional La Amistad) that is shared with Costa Rica. The Autoridad Nacional del Ambiente (ANAM), Panama’s environmental authority, manages all the parks and protected areas.

Panama’s first national park was established in 1966. This park, Parque Nacional Altos de Campana, began Panama’s shift towards greater environmental conservation. Since then the country has moved slowly towards environmental awareness and sustainability. There is, however, still a long way to go. Illegal hunting, fishing, farming and logging still take place in some protected areas, and many crucial outdoor areas remain without even nominal protection.

All of Panama’s parks have ranger stations. Facilities can be pretty basic and there will generally only be a ranger or two around. Still, these rangers can help visitors decide how to explore the park and provide valuable information concerning flora and fauna. Trail systems differ from park to park, but most are simple and adequate for hiking. When hiking, pay attention to posted signs and be aware of where you’re going—you wouldn’t want to get lost out here.

Panama has historically placed emphasis on the economy and development, while disregarding the effect that this development may have on the environment. As a result, sustainability is a relatively new term for this country. The government still tends to act in the interest of powerful groups that exploit rather than preserve the country’s natural resources. Climate change is also expected to have a significant impact on Panama, as far as water, energy, and human security are concerned. To both sustain a strong economy and mitigate the effects of climate change, it is crucial for Panama to protect natural ecosystems and create sustainable economic alternatives for stakeholders.

Panama’s first national park was established in 1966. This park, Parque Nacional Altos de Campana, began Panama’s shift towards greater environmental conservation. Since then the country has moved slowly towards environmental awareness and sustainability. There is, however, still a long way to go. Illegal hunting, fishing, farming and logging still take place in some protected areas, and many crucial outdoor areas remain without even nominal protectio