Regardless of the size of the population, or political status we must take bold steps toward greater sustainability. May 22 has been proclaimed by the United Nations as International Day for Biodiversity (IDB). This day has been established in an effort to bring awareness of biodiversity issues. The Convention on Biological Diversity was endorsed by the second committee of the United Nations General Assembly in late 1993, on the 29th of December. In December 2000, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the 22nd of May as the official IDB to celebrate and promote the Convention. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became a signatory by the second committee of the United Nations General Assembly on June 3rd, 1996. This year the theme is focused on Islands and their surroundings – particularly near shore marine areas constituting unique ecosystems which often comprise many endemic plant and animal species (found nowhere else on earth). For Saint Vincent and the Grenadines we are blessed with beautiful and complex ecosystems and biodiversity. From our National Bird the St Vincent Parrot to our Black Snake and our abundant marine species including turtles, whales and all marine species. Our ecosystems carry a legacy of a unique evolutionary history and are irreplaceable treasures - we must be aware that without these ecosystems our livelihood, economy, wellbeing and cultural identity of our beautiful island will be at risk of extinction. 2014 is also the international year of Small Island Developing States, which is why the International Day of Biodiversity will celebrate with the theme of Island Biodiversity. The primary mission here at the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority is to assist communities’ to conserve and sustainably manage the islands rich natural resources that support people, cultures and livelihoods. Across our 32 islands we must come together as one people to protect our ecosystems and biodiversity. Regardless of the size of our population, your political preference and status, our main initiative is to take bold steps toward greater sustainability. Island biodiversity- Why is it so important? Over 600 million people live on islands around the world. The majority of islanders are endowed with unique cultures and obtain much of their economy, environmental and cultural well-being directly or indirectly from the rich natural resources in their immediate habitats. Islands harbor numerous ecosystems, which provide food, fresh water, wood, fibre, medicines, fuel, tools and other important raw materials. In addition these ecosystems provide aesthetic, spiritual, educational and recreational values that support island livelihoods, economies and cultures. Island ecosystems also provide defense against natural disasters, support nutrient cycling and soil and sand formation and contribute to the regulation of climate and diseases. In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, our population is just over 100,000 people in our island. With this fact being said, an advantage where we have a relatively small population so it should be easier to educate, support and assist each other on how to protect our island biodiversity. Business and homeowners in our small Island state are encouraged to take a pledge to conserve and sustain our Island’s biodiversity by utilizing invaluable island natural resources. This could simply mean to recycle, reuse bottles, and containers we buy from grocery instead of increasing the amount of plastic containers companies produce. Use a recycling bag, such as a “crocass bag” for grocery shopping, as opposed to plastic bags. Refrain from discarding solid waste and pollutants into the watershed areas. Clean up after using the beach for recreation. Following these simple measures will protect ecosystem for future generations. Companies and homeowners can invest in their own share of solar energy. By purchasing solar energy systems to power their entire home and business, we can assist to stimulate our economy in several ways. Invest in solar energy and other forms of green energy to reduce green house gases, while improving the quality of the air we breathe.
Posted on: Tue, 03 Jun 2014 16:48:02 +0000