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For seven generations to come Like so many regions in the world, the Caribbean has a plastic pollution problem. But, as Karen McDonald Gayle reports, community groups have been leading the way to reduce waste, protect our cherished biodiversity, and ensure that we can continue to enjoy our beautiful bodies of water
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rom rainforest to reef, the Caribbean has a level of biodiversity that defines the region’s history, culture and heritage — and which we often take for granted. The ocean has shaped generations of Caribbean communities, as well as our economies through “blue” sectors like fisheries and tourism. Caribbean people’s close relationship with the oceans and our natural environment is manifested in our continued interest and ambition around conservation and sustainable development. In 2008, for example, there was the Caribbean Challenge Initiative (CCI) that saw Caribbean nations reaching beyond the global target of protecting 20% of marine protected areas by 2020.
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In addition to moving the needle on marine management in the region, this drive led to the establishment of the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF), which now invests over US$175 million in conservation and sustainable development across the Caribbean. When global interests arose around a similar target that would protect 30% of all natural areas globally by 2030, Caribbean leaders were among the first to pledge their support. This new “30 by 30 goal” provides an opportunity for the region to build on the achievements of the CCI, and once again work together on conservation targets. Several of these targets begin to acknowledge the inextricable link between land and the previously undervalued ocean. We may be small islands, but we are large ocean states! Of the 24 Caribbean islands that I checked, their marine space is between 68% and 99% of their economic area (their “Exclusive Economic Zone”). So our connection to the ocean is undeniable. I am excited by the rapidly developing blue economy focus that holds great opportunities for development and GDP growth in our island nations. It will lead to more accurate accounting for our significant ocean spaces. As with all development opportunities, the key will be balance — economic development is only sustainable with effective terrestrial and marine preservation, conservation and management.