The Coastal Zone Management Unit (CZMU) has been lauded for achieving coastal and marine resilience through mitigation and adaptation measures, over the last 40 years.
Minister of the Environment and National Beautification, Blue and Green Economy, Adrian Forde, acknowledged the achievements of the Unit, headed by Dr. Leo Brewster, during their 40th Anniversary Awards Dinner at the Hilton Barbados Resort, recently.
Mr. Forde noted that a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) Unit was now in place at the CZMU, and the process of mapping out the uses of the island’s ocean space is under way.
He said the plan highlights zones of the sea that need to be demarcated with areas responsible for marine conservation and ensures that there is resilience, in terms of mitigation and adaptation.
In addition, he stated that there would be areas outlined for artisanal fishing, coral reefs, pleasure craft, and other leisure activities.
“This is the extent of ensuring that every single part of the ocean part of the ocean has a sustainable mechanism towards it. It is very, very important,” the Minister noted.
He stressed that with a marine spatial plan, Barbados could fully maximise the ocean, have sustainable development, and achieve its goals.
Mr. Forde added that Barbados had used interest earned under the debt-for- nature swap over the last couple of months, to enhance the island’s marine environment.
“On our west and east coasts, we have breakwaters to allow the protection of our beaches; [and] we have revetments. We have those mechanisms and… we are able to protect our coastal environment,” he said.
The Minister reminded those present that Mother Nature says when something is going to happen, or how intense an event will be.
“There is only so much we can do. What we have done over the last 40 years or so has shown us that we have the personnel, the experience, the technical know how to know how to protect our coastline,” he said.
Mr. Forde thanked the management and staff of the CZMU for embracing their work, and with a “collective zeal”, to ensure that Barbados emerged at the top of coastal development and resilience in the western hemisphere.
“You are not only providing the mechanism for Barbados, but we have said in a philanthropic way that we are willing to extend that knowledge to the rest of the Caribbean. Now, we are that knowledge hub. Your work has been requested all over the world,” he pointed out.
Noting that partnership was an important clog in sustainable development, Mr. Forde also commended the CZMU partners, who have stood by their side over the years.
During the ceremony, staff were awarded for five, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 40 years of service.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Brewster said the evening set the precedent for what the organisation had done over the years, as he shared out special Director Awards. Those receiving the special awards were Research Officer, Danielle Howell; Deputy Director, Antonio Rowe; and Project Manager with the MSP, Allison Wiggins.