El Remate Village, Flores, Petén, Guatemala.
"We, the artisans of the El Remate community, used to work in agriculture as our means for subsistence. To carry out our farming activities, we had to cut down and burn five hectares of forest per year.
The agricultural activities we practiced brought very little income to our families but caused significant damage to the forest, putting in danger the lives of wild animals, as well as our own.
Hence, 20 years ago our community started working as artisans creating wooden crafts, which was an art brought about locally by our need to make a better living, improve the quality of life and at the same time seek the sustainability of our natural resources.
Now, as artisans, we only need one previously fallen tree, using its roots and branches, to work the entire year. This new activity provides us with higher incomes than our previous work in agriculture; and at the same time guarantees us the protection of the natural resources and the lives of wild animals.
In the craftsmanship women, youth, children and the elderly participate. From their own homes, they are able to earn an income for their families that is more adequate for meeting the needs of our rural communities."
Wooden Bangle Bracelets
These handcarved bangle bracelets are as pleasing to the eye as they're smooth and soothing to the touch. Great care was taken to create them. Buy a few for yourself or a friend to enjoy the pleasant jingle of wood while you encourage Guatemalan families to continue to employ forest conservation practices, which benefits the planet and therefore all of us!
Hence, 20 years ago our community started working as artisans creating wooden crafts, which was an art brought about locally by our need to make a better living, improve the quality of life and at the same time seek the sustainability of our natural resources. 