NEITHER the Honduran government nor Stone Container have had theii way. For it was the people's will that ultimately prevailed. The Honduran government has had to reject a contract that would have given Stone Container, a Chicago-based producer of paper bags and packages, the right to harvest between 0.4 million hectares and 1 million hectares of Honduras's virgin pine forests.
Honduras, which still has the largest standing pine forests in Cential America, has not seen many public protests. This victory too, people fear, may not be a permanent one. Opponents to the contract are concerned that Stone will try to renegotiate the contract, perhaps under the name, of a subsidiary.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.