All Barbadians will have an opportunity to have their say on the Barbados Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) process.
Officials at the Coastal Zone Management Unit (CZMU) explained that this will result in everyone who uses the ocean space being able to give an input on how and where they use it, and what they would like to see happening going forward.
Deputy Project Manager at the CZMU, Allison Wiggins, said one of the key elements of the MSP process is continuous engagement with stakeholders.
“This will be a process by, for, and of the Barbadian people. It will be inclusive, and we hope to develop a plan which will bring together the vision of a wide cross section of people,” she stated.
These were among the points outlined during a media briefing at the Bagnall Conference Room, Pelican Village, on Tuesday, as CZMU officials gave an update on the MSP process.
Marine Biologist at the CZMU, Richard Suckoo, explained that the MSP process allocates the spatial and temporal distribution of human activity in the marine areas. It was launched in January 2023, and will run for five years, before being implemented over a 15-year period.
He stated that the plan would involve ensuring that all users of the marine space have a say on how it is used, and are kept updated about upcoming plans.
The Marine Biologist pointed out that the MSP process focused on four zones: the scientific, the northern water sports, recreational, and the southern water sports.
Mr. Suckoo also said the MSP process supports the national growth and development of the blue economy. In addition, he stated that it would also reduce conflicts between compatible uses and promote the efficient use of the space.
Other benefits of the MSP process outlined by the Marine Biologist include factoring in an inter-ministerial and inter-agency governance of the ocean; incorporating biodiversity objectives into planned decision-making; and considering relevant multi-lateral agreements.
Meanwhile, Director of the CZMU, Dr. Leo Brewster, noted that as a small island developing state, Barbados had no choice but to embrace the notion of sustainable development via green and blue economy pathways.
“Luckily, Barbados and Barbadians have always acknowledged and innately understood the immense value of our ocean space. However, the time has come for us to gain greater knowledge of the resources therein, as well as plan for the sustainable use of said resources,” he stressed.
The MSP process is being executed by the CZMU, in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank, The Nature Conservancy, and a number of governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.