A vital part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot, the Maya Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area in Central America. 

 

Its lush forests are home to a wealth of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species. 

 

However, the reserve faces increasing pressure from deforestation, illegal logging, and agricultural expansion. 

 

The use of Earth observation technologies here raises important questions about how to balance conservation goals with the rights and livelihoods of local communities who depend on the forest.

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Use of EO

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Earth observation tools help monitor changes in forest cover, track wildlife populations, and support efforts to combat illegal logging and poaching.