Blue Print Newsletter Issue 1 _ March 2025

WELCOME

We are excited to launch this newsletter as a key resource for updates and insights into the development of Barbados’ Marine Spatial Plan (BMSP) The BMSP is a collaborative, science-driven initiative which aims to balance economic activities, environmental conservation, and public use within our marine space.

Marine spatial planning is an intersectoral and participatory process, bringing stakeholders together to plan for the sustainable use of our ocean by seeking to balance ecological, economic, and social objectives. Put simply, it is like land planning activities, but focusing on the ocean.

In this issue, we highlight recent stakeholder consultations, emerging priorities, and opportunities for you to contribute your vision for the sustainable use of our ocean resources.

Stay informed and get in on de plan!

We’re moving full steam ahead collecting the data necessary to develop the draft marine spatial plan within the next few months The Ocean Use Survey (O.U.S) and the Beach Use Survey (B.U.S), are vital to helping us understand how the space is currently used, where uses and users overlap, and possible ways in which the space can be managed sustainably.

Take our Beach Use Survey today, and stay tuned for more details on the Ocean Use Survey

COMMUNITY LISTENING SESSIONS

The BMSP is engaging at the community level to capture the perspectives, concerns, and aspirations of the public regarding how the marine space is used and managed, currently and in the future. This is a grass-roots, community-level inititative with sessions being held in each parish.

This month we’re heading to the final four parishes for community listening sessions! Residents of St. Lucy, St. George, St. John, and St. Michael will have the opportunity to share their concerns, insights, and vision within the coming weeks

Stay tuned for more and help shape the future of Barbados’ blue economy.

MARINE EDUCATION

As part of our ongoing stakeholder engagement, we’ll be visiting several secondary schools to introduce students to blue economy opportunities and marine spatial planning. These sessions will be interactive and engaging, showing how young Barbadians can play a vital role in managing and protecting our marine resources.

To find out more about our marine education and ocean literacy programme, click here

Watch our video from the primary schools!

DEEP OCEAN SURVEY COMING SOON!

EXPERIENCE THE RHYTHM OF THE OCEAN WITH OUR NEW MUSIC VIDEO

We’re excited to share an exclusive release our official music video - a vibrant celebration of our connection to the sea!

Through powerful lyrics and stunning visuals, this video highlights the importance of protecting and sustainably using our marine space. It’s more than a song it’s a call to action for all Barbadians to play a role in shaping the future of our blue economy

Watch, share, and let the music inspire you to get involved in the Barbados Marine Spatial Plan!

The Government of Barbados has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Marine Institute of Ireland to deploy a hightech research vessel for a bathymetric survey in Barbados' waters This cutting-edge survey will map the seafloor, providing critical insights into the marine features and resources within various areas that may be considered for protection. The data gathered will support the Barbados Marine Spatial Plan by informing sustainable management decisions, enhancing conservation efforts, and identifying opportunities for responsible marine use

FLASHBACK

MSP IN THE COMMUNITY

The MSP Unit engaged scores of Barbadians, and even visitors at the Holetown Festival and Agrofest to facilitate an inclusive marine spatial planning process.

MORE HIGHLIGHTS

Website Update

A major update has been completed allowing you to access project documents, track progress and even submit feedback and grievances. Check out our updated website to see our progress, and learn about the work of the MSP Unit.

Capacity Building

A recent training on the use of the Marxan Planning Platform (MaPP), held in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy underscores our commitment to ensuring that stakeholders are equipped with cuttingedge tools to make datadriven conservation planning decisions.

Listening Sessions

We concluded another round of community listening sessions including visiting communities in St. James, St. Joseph and St. Thomas. Reports summarizing the key insights from attendees, can be found on our social media pages (Instagram and Facebook).

ea all, keep having fun".