Panama: One of the Only Three Carbon-Negative Countries in the World
Did you know that Panama, along with Bhutan and Suriname, are the only three countries in the world recognized by the UN as carbon negative? That’s right, in addition to being a paradise of biodiversity, Panama is also positioned itself as a leader in climate action.
From May 19 to 23, 2025, Panama City hosted the Climate Week 2025, during which Panama proudly announced its commitment to the environment, being one of the only three countries in the world to be carbon negative. But what does it mean to be carbon negative? It means that we absorb more carbon dioxide than we emit. In other words, the net balance of greenhouse gas emissions is negative, making us a positive contributor in the fight against climate change.
How does Panama achieve carbon negativity?
- Extensive and well-preserved forests: Around 65% of Panama’s territory is covered by tropical forests, which act as “carbon sinks,” absorbing large amounts of CO₂ from the atmosphere.
- Low industrial emissions: Panama lacks heavy industry and has a relatively small population, which significantly reduces its carbon emissions.
- Use of renewable energy: A significant portion of the electricity that generates Panama comes from renewable sources such as hydroelectric power, and in recent years, wind energy—reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Why is this important?
- Contribution to the climate fight: Absorbing more CO₂ helps offset emissions from other countries, helping to mitigate global warming.
- Economic opportunities: Being carbon negative opens doors to international climate financing, ecotourism, and carbon credit trading.