CAF, SERNANP present “Taste of Nature” documentary and book

(Lima, Nov. 15, 2012). – CAF –development bank of Latin America– and the National Service of Protected Natural Areas (SERNANP) presented the book and documentary “Taste of Nature,” which shows the diversity of ingredients in Peruvian cuisine based on the sustainable development and use of four protected natural areas of Peru.

Particopating in the presentation were Peru’s Environment Minister Manuel Pulgar-Vidal; CAF’s Country Director in Peru Eleonora Silva Pardo, SERNANP Secretary General Pedro Gamboa Moquillaza and renowned chef Astrid Gutsche, who is also the documentary’s narrator.

The ceremony was also attended by the park rangers of the four protected areas --Tambopata and Pacaya Samiria National Preserve, as well as the Los Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary and Huascarán National Park-- where programs to sustainably harvest Brazil nuts, paiche freshwater fish, shellfish and native potatoes demonstrate how mankind can have a harmonious relationship with his natural environment.

Environment Minister Manuel Pulgar Vidal noted that the protected areas represent an excellent opportunity for the construction of values, identity and protection of our natural and cultural heritage, stressing that this issue is attracting more attention by the media, thanks to a new vision for the country’s protected areas.

“When I saw the excellent presentation of this book, in this beautiful box, I said only Peru’s greatest treasures –such as our pisco– are displayed in this manner”, said Pulgar-Vidal. “Certainly conservation carries the most exclusive label and represents the best of our country, the pride of every Peruvian.”

For her part, Silva Pardo said CAF is committed to supporting sustainable development and regional integration of its member countries. She said biodiversity in Latin America is part of an extraordinary natural heritage, whose strategic value is vital in for improving the quality of life of local inhabitants and the strengthening of institutions, infrastructure and markets.

"We believe biocommerce will allow countries with great biodiversity to add value to their natural resources, and thus enhance an innovative and profitable economic alternative, generating benefits such as job creation, commercial dividends and tax revenues, as well as social harmony and environmental balance,” she added.

“Taste of Nature is another step toward creating awareness among the public in the regions with the 77 protected natural areas that these spaces are not untouchable, but are key opportunties for development as long as it’s done in a sustainable manner,” said Gamboa Moquillaza. “In that regard, SERNANP’s staff plays a key role […] as it educates and provides the necessary knowledge to local populations to commit them to sustainable projects, as well as to preserve ancient knowledge.”

“The goal of [of this book and documentary] is to create awareness among all Peruvians that our protected areas, especially forests, are living stores of supplies for our rich cuisine, and that only a commitment […] to their conservation will pave the way for a bright future for Peruvian cuisine, a source of pride and unity for each and every one of us.”