Jamaica’s ‘Cockpit Country’ Faces Growing Threats From Mining Interests

The island nation’s government has begun granting mining leases in its rare limestone karst rainforest.

Jamaica is famous for its many beaches, rivers, and mountains. But it is the Cockpit Country, the island’s largest contiguous rainforest, that stands as the region’s most beautiful, biodiverse, and important natural feature. This ecological marvel is home to Indigenous communities, countless plants and animals, and the source of much of Jamaica’s freshwater.

The complete story, shown below, can also be found in the print version of Backayard Magazine.

---

As a nonprofit journalism organization, we depend on your support to fund more than 170 reporting projects every year on critical global and local issues. Donate any amount today to become a Pulitzer Center Champion and receive exclusive benefits!

---