Guatemalan Community Forestry Association Utz Che’
The Guatemalan Community Forestry Association Utz Che’ – meaning “good tree” in the K’iché language – is a civil association formed by indigenous and peasant organizations dedicated to community forestry and the sustainable management of their natural resources, mainly forests, tree plantations, and water sources.
Its purpose is to contribute to the development of integrated solutions designed to address community development in a holistic and sustainable approach, promoting economic prosperity, social well-being, and the preservation of natural resources.
Defense of Rights and Political Advocacy
Achieve recognition and respect for the rights of communities to decide on their territory and natural resources by state institutions and civil society.
Strengthening Community Governance and the Network
Strengthen the governance system of organizations that make up the Utz Che´ network by consolidating and promoting inclusive participation, accountability, and empowerment of its members for integral development.
Sustainable Management of Natural Resources
Contribute to the Community Forestry management model adopted by grassroots community organizations for their natural resources and territories.
Community Livelihoods
Improve the living conditions of those who are members of grassroots community organizations through diversified, agroecological, equitable, and sustainable practices in production, fishing, forestry, community tourism, and other areas.
Financial Administrative Sustainability
Facilitate the efficient and effective management and administration of the Association's resources by implementing continuous improvements in internal processes. This is based on the efficient and transparent management of financial resources, contributing to financial sustainability.
Contribute to community initiatives and processes
Equatorial Prize 2020
Promote resilient communities, recognize and encourage solutions based on sustainable development. Create opportunities for knowledge and best practices developed in local communities and indigenous peoples.
Medalla Presidencial del Medio Ambiente
In July 2026, Utz Che’ received the Presidential Medal for the Environment—the highest environmental honor awarded by the State of Guatemala—along with the CDRO Association. This distinction recognizes the work of the network’s 28 community organizations, which contribute to the protection of more than 55,000 hectares of natural forest.”
