The Bialowieza Primeval Forest, which straddles the Polish-Belarusian border, is the largest and best-preserved fragment of ancient European lowland forest. The Polish part covers 625 square kilometers but only 105 square kilometers are formally protected as the Bialowieza National Park. The Bialowieza National Park has been included on the list of World Biosphere Reserves since 1977 and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
PREAMBLE:
We stand at a critical moment in Earth's history, a time when humanity must
choose its future. Now more than ever, the survival of the diverse community of
all life forms, ecosystems & cultures depends on our mutual respect, cooperation
and sense of responsibility towards one another and to future generations of all
beings.
THE BIALOWIEZA PRIMEVAL FOREST is the last old-growth mixed forest in the lowlands of Europe. Its natural state supports a very rare & unique community of life and provides perfect conditions for the forces of nature to flow freely, undisturbed in their ancient cycles. It is in our charge to preserve this magnificent place, with its natural and cultural values and outstanding primeval beauty.
THE SITUATION
In today’s society, rapid population growth, large-scale industrial production,
unlimited consumption, unjustified exploitation of nature and the unprecedented
merging of cultures are some common patterns that pose real threats to all life
on Earth. The well-being of the entire planet greatly depends upon the
preservation and protection of places like the Bialowieza Primeval Forest.
THE CHALLENGES AHEAD
We need to unite in our efforts to protect the Bialowieza Primeval Forest.
Successful protection will undoubtedly require drastic shifts in policy and in
our relationship with this unique place. This challenge will require the
utilization of all available resources. We can face and surmount the challenges
only when working on all interrelated levels: ecological, economical, political,
social & spiritual.
PRINCIPLES
I. RESPECT AND CARE FOR THE BIALOWIEZA PRIMEVAL FOREST
A. The natural values of the Bialowieza Primeval Forest include its biological
diversity, uninterrupted natural processes and vast area, all of which should be
protected as a national park.
B. With the right to manage and oversea this ecological treasure comes the duty
to protect the flora and fauna of the Bialowieza Primeval Forest without
violating its natural and cultural values.
C. Care for the Bialowieza Primeval Forest should include the preservation of
its values for future generations.
II. ECOLOGICAL INTEGRITY
A. The forest constitutes an indivisible oneness, and despite the current
international boundary, its protection should take into consideration this
natural indivisibility. Today only a small part of the forest located on the
Polish side is designated as a national park, while the remaining old-growth
areas are still managed by the National Forestry Services.
B. We need to strive towards the preservation and possible reconstruction of the
entire Bialowieza Primeval Forest, with special consideration given to its
biodiversity and the continuity of its natural processes. The presence of
man-made boundaries restricts the territorial space required by some species
inhabiting the forest. Granting the entire forest the status of National Park
would be the most efficient way to protect this sacred place for all beings and
for future generations.
C. Any activity undertaken in the forest area should be based on our knowledge
of nature, remembering that very often this knowledge may be limited. If the
outcomes of our interference cannot be predicted or assured, such interference
might need to be withheld.
D. All decisions should be made with the consideration of their long term
effects and with respect for existing natural processes.
E. Any decisions made concerning a nearby territory, or even an area farther
away, should always consider the consequences on the natural environment.
III. SUSTAINABILITY
A. Regional progress & development should not interfere with the interior values
of the Bialowieza Primeval Forest. We need to invest in and promote
nature-friendly technologies and solutions.
B. We need to continue scientific observation and research of the natural
processes present on the territory of the forest in order to enhance our means
of protecting it.
IV. THE SOCIETY
A. Economic and social decisions should attempt to eliminate inequalities,
ensure safe living conditions and provide access to education with emphasis on
bioregional studies and sustainability.
B. We need to identify factors that pose real threats of poverty and strive to
eliminate them.
C. Any activity coming from corporations, firms or institutions other than local
structures needs to be clearly presented to the local community, addressing how
it might affect the natural environment, the community and the Bialowieza
Primeval Forest.
D. We need to promote compassion and humility in our relation towards the Earth
and continue to eliminate unnecessary exploitation and arrogance.
E. We need to promote mutual tolerance and respect towards all cultures and
traditions.
These goals can be achieved only with the active engagement of the local
community, Poland as a nation, and the international community. Responsibility
for the Bialowieza Primeval Forest transcends political boundaries. The forest
belongs to all people everywhere. It will require our unified creativity -
including the cooperation of scientists, politicians, artists and spiritual
leaders - to find a way to protect this ancient forest. Each person,
organization and group plays a significant role in this effort.
Each signature in support of the Bialowieza Forest Charter declares a request to
protect the largest remaining old-growth forest in Europe. The Charter is a
defense of life, a voice for the protection of all remaining wilderness areas
and promoting harmony among all people. The creators of the Charter hope it will
be an effective proclamation of the efforts to protect the entire Bialowieza
Primeval Forest.
We encourage you to promote and widely publish the Bialowieza Forest Charter.