April 30, 2024
The Bahamas Mangrove Alliance (BMA) celebrated Earth Day 2024 by taking action in ecosystem restoration both this past Saturday and on Earth Day itself this Monday, April 22nd.
On Saturday, the BMA conducted a community mangrove planting in East End, Grand Bahama involving dozens of local students, civic leaders, bonefishing guides, and staff from BMA member organizations. On Monday’s worldwide Earth Day, the same NGO coalition hosted a “Mangrove Restoration Exhibition and Planting Experience,” in Freeport, Grand Bahama. The event provided an immersive opportunity for guests to explore a large-scale BMA mangrove restoration project at Dover Sound and witness the remarkable results of community-assisted ecological recovery efforts.
The BMA’s founding members are Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS), and Waterkeepers Bahamas (WKB). The BMA recently announced two more Bahamian members: Friends of the Environment and the Cape Eleuthera Institute.
Special guest colleagues from the Clinton Foundation and members of their Global Initiative (CGI) Caribbean Women’s Leadership Network joined the events, helping to amplify this good work across the region and globally. Participants engaged closely with various aspects of the restoration project in different stages of recovery by exploring areas in Dover Sound flagged for different restoration stages, from damaged to newly planted ones. Later, guests visited one of the primary source nurseries for mangrove seedlings operated by the BMA and Waterkeepers Bahamas, gaining insight into the crucial role of these facilities in supporting mangrove restoration initiatives.
Nina Sanchez, BTT Bahamas Initiative Coordinator said: “Earth Day 2024 marks a pivotal moment for the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance as we celebrate our ongoing efforts to restore and conserve mangroves across The Bahamas. Through collaboration and community engagement, we are committing to coastal resilience and protecting our environment and local communities from the impacts of natural disasters. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the health of our ecosystems and the resilience of our communities.”
Said Dr. Craig Dahlgren, Executive Director of PIMS: “As we celebrate Earth Day and at community events like these year round, it’s essential to recognize the pivotal role of individuals and communities in driving environmental action. These initiatives showcase the tangible results of our collective efforts and highlight the importance of grassroots involvement in conservation. I’m inspired by the dedication of those participating in one or both BMA Earth Day events – all involved are clearly demonstrating their commitment to restoring and conserving mangroves. Healthy mangrove forests are an essential resource for a functioning environmental system, and the people who depend on it.”
Local high school student and Waterkeepers Bahamas Cadet d’Azjah Archer said: “Engaging young people in events like the Mangrove Restoration Exhibition and Planting Experience is crucial for fostering a sense of environmental stewardship and empowering the next generation of leaders. By actively involving youth in conservation efforts, we ensure the sustainability of our ecosystems and cultivate a deeper appreciation for our natural world. As a Waterkeepers Bahamas cadet, I believe that by inspiring and educating young people, we can catalyze positive change and create a brighter future for our planet.”
The success of the Earth Day events and ongoing mangrove restoration efforts is made possible through the generous support of partners such as GEF SGP, TNC, and other funding organizations.