International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem
Kingston, Jamaica. July 26, 2024: For a country like Jamaica, which is a Small Island Developing State, we must accelerate our efforts to protect and restore our mangrove ecosystems.
Our mangroves are a critical part of our natural environment and require our focused attention. Their importance cannot be overstated, including the role they play in providing suitable habitats for our flora and fauna, ensuring the seamless operation of our food chain, and maintaining the ecological balance needed for our continued existence.
Too often here in Jamaica, in pursuit of development, acres of mangroves are destroyed. The climate emergency does not allow for this to continue, and we must hasten to change our developmental path as well as replant mangroves to replace those we have destroyed. The Opposition accepts the importance of development but calls for sustainable development where our natural environment is not compromised. We cannot continue to destroy our mangroves, which is inimical to building sustainable, resilient economies.
The restoration of our mangrove ecosystem takes on even greater importance with the triple planetary crises of our time. In this regard, we are called upon to be stewards and defenders of the environment. All of us, at every level, must commit to this mission as we seek to adapt to and mitigate climate change.
A flourishing mangrove ecosystem requires us to improve our planning and environmental framework. As a country, we often lament the loss of beaches and shorelines, knowing that what helps to protect us are our mangroves, corals, and healthy waters. Yet our laws do not reflect this important reality. Presently, the penalty for polluting our waters is a maximum fine of $100,000, while the removal of mangroves without NEPA’s approval carries a maximum fine of $50,000.
On this International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, we have an opportunity to examine our efforts at protecting the mangrove ecosystem and recommit to doing more. The recent passage of Hurricane Beryl is evidence that we can no longer continue with little regard for this important ecosystem.
All of Jamaica must consider how we dispose of our garbage, which finds its way into our waterways and impacts our mangroves. We must be champions of the environment by seeking out information on government’s plans for development and environmental sustainability and let our voices be collectively heard, as we champion the cause of environmental sustainability.
The Opposition recognises the work of the various NGOs who work tirelessly to restore and maintain our mangroves. Let us all, as Jamaicans, come together and play our part in protecting and preserving our mangroves.
