Legendary Field Botanist and ACT Honored by Surinamese Government

Surinamese Minister of the Environment Marciano Dasai recognized legendary field botanist Frits van Troon along with other members of the Amazon Conservation Team (ACT) for their outstanding contributions to forest conservation in the region. The recognition took place during a special event at TBL Cinemas, where the life of field botanist Van Troon, 89, was showcased on the big screen. The screening is part of a three-part series, with an accompanying book set to be released this year. The initiative to document Van Troon’s life comes from ACT-Guianas and highlights his exceptional contribution to the knowledge of trees and nature conservation in Suriname and beyond.

Minu Parahoe, Regional Director of ACT-Guianas, says the goal of the documentary is to inspire the younger generation to pursue a career in the forestry sector, using Frits van Troon as an example. Several speakers described the field botanist as a legend and a walking encyclopedia, eager to share his knowledge with others.   

Dr. Mark Plotkin, President and co-founder of ACT, recalled that many of the books on plants and trees published in the past 50 years were made possible thanks to Van Troon’s knowledge and wisdom. Marciano Dasai, minister of the environment for Suriname, paid tribute to the field botanist on behalf of the head of state, emphasizing that it is now up to stakeholders to continue his work.  

Van Troon was born in the Saramaccan village of Kadju (Brokopondo), located along the upper course of the Suriname River. His self-taught knowledge of indigenous plants and trees began at a young age, and over the next eight decades, he developed into one of the greatest experts on Surinamese flora. His expertise lies in identifying trees, lianas, and shrubs, effortlessly naming them in both their local and scientific terms. In the 1970s, he started his career at the Foundation for Forest Management and Production Control (SBB), where he worked closely with both local and international scientists.  

One of the most significant milestones in his career is the vegetation map of Suriname’s coastal region, which charts the country’s diverse ecosystems. In addition, Van Troon has served for many years as an indispensable guide and advisor for ecologists, biologists, and students studying Suriname’s natural wealth. To preserve his knowledge, ACT-Guianas also initiated the release of the 2021 thirteen-part documentary series “Kibri a busi leki fa a busi e kibri yu” (“Protect the forest as the forest protects you”).  

Even in his advanced age, Frits van Troon remains an active advocate for the protection of Suriname’s flora and fauna. He continues to inspire policymakers and communities to adopt a more conscious approach to preserving the country’s unique biodiversity. With his invaluable knowledge and unwavering dedication, Frits van Troon remains an icon of Surinamese conservation efforts. His legacy will endure for generations, contributing to rainforest conservation and the transmission of traditional knowledge.  

In addition to Frits van Troon, ACT President and co-founder Dr. Mark Plotkin and ACT Senior Manager for Scientific Research Bruce Hoffman were also honored at the event for their nearly 30 years of work alongside indigenous communities to preserve the forests of Suriname.   

Explore the biodiverse forest of Suriname with Frits van Troon 

Take a walk with Frits and ACT’s Bruce Hoffman as they explore the marsh forests of Suriname and the unique plants you’ll find there.  

Learn More About the Amazon Conservation Team’s Work Across The Guianas

ACT works in true partnership with indigenous and local communities of South America to help ensure their cultural survival and protect ancestral territories in some of the largest tracts of pristine rainforest on the planet. Our work begins in the forest – with the people who live there – and then expands to the state, national, and regional level.

Press contact: Anna Casey, External Communications Manager, ACT-US, acasey@amazonteam.org