New Category : Environment

PM Davis encourages students to be environmental stewards: "Our country is worth fighting for -- to preserve all that is beautiful about our environment, our way of life, and our people"

Mon, Mar 18th 2024, 09:43 AM

During his Official Opening Remarks at the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) Extreme Hangout Bahamas climate change student workshop, on March 8, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis pointed out that the formative experiences in his life continued to be a “guiding light” for him.  That included, he said, his early years growing up on Cat Island and “the natural beauty of island life”.

“Because I’ve always known the sacred beauty of our natural environment, I have always been a firm advocate for conservation,” Prime Minister Davis said, at the event held at St. John’s College.

He added:  “What we have here in The Bahamas is unlike anywhere else in the world. Our landscapes, both marine and terrestrial, are contenders to be world wonders.  US astronaut Scot Kelly has said on multiple occasions that The Bahamas is the most beautiful place from space.  And we are just as beautiful up close as we are from hundreds of miles away.”

Minister for the Environment and Natural Resources the Hon. Vaughn Miller also brought remarks; and students from New Providence, Grand Bahama and Cat Island were participants in the workshop.

Prime Minister Davis noted that within “this immense beauty” was also the potential to support livelihoods through fishing, agriculture and aquaculture, and tourism.

“That is why my Government has priortised the cultivation of the blue and green economies from day one,” he said.  “It is critical that we protect our marine and coastal environments to fully tap into the unbridled potential for economic growth and sustainability that we know exists. For this reason, we must remain committed to protecting and preserving the valuable natural assets that we have.”

“Our waters are the lifeline of our economy, our heritage, and our people. It is our duty to protect them,” Prime Minister Davis added.  “Organisations like BREEF are doing incredibly valuable work that benefits us all.”

Prime Minister Davis stated that they must all support those efforts and work together to mitigate the ongoing threats to the environment.

“Some of the threats are internal, like overconsumption, which is one of the biggest contributors to pollution of our environment and the depletion of stocks of marine species due to unsustainable harvesting practices,” he said.

“Other forces at work are external, particularly climate change, which poses the biggest threat to our environment and our people,” he added.  “We have already seen the effects of temperature increases on our waters, triggering coral bleaching events that impact the entire region.”

Prime Minister Davis pointed out that the effects of climate change were only projected to get worse, which “puts both us, our environment, and the flora and fauna that coexist with us at risk”.

“That is why I continue to advocate for more action and assistance for Small Island Developing States like ours on the world stage,” he noted.

“We must also lead the way by adopting a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly way of life,” he added.  “The Government recognises the important role it plays as we transition our islands to renewable forms of energy like solar.”

Prime Minister Davis told the students that he had no doubt that he was standing in the presence of “some of the brightest young minds in The Bahamas."

He said: “As young leaders, you have the power to promote conservation, to advance climate justice, and to effect change. And we all have individual contributions we can make as well. We can all use less single-use plastics, for example, and less fossil fuels in our personal lives -- whether that means a future vehicle purchase that is hybrid or electric, being more conscious of our electricity consumption, or choosing sustainably packaged products and finding ways to reuse the plastic products that we purchase.”

Prime Minister Davis said that, as young leaders, they must not underestimate the impact of their voices.

“Speak up and speak loudly,” he stated.  “Each one of you has a part to play in securing a sustainable future.”

He added:  “We can all be effective advocates. So stand up today, and demand a better future.  Absorb these discussions you have today so you can arm yourself with even more knowledge to be a more effective advocate and change maker in this world.

“Our country is worth fighting for -- to preserve all that is beautiful about our environment, our way of life, and our people. Let’s all commit to doing our part to fight for progress.”  

During his Official Opening Remarks at the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) Extreme Hangout Bahamas climate change student workshop, on March 8, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis pointed out that the formative experiences in his life continued to be a “guiding light” for him.  That included, he said, his early years growing up on Cat Island and “the natural beauty of island life”. “Because I’ve always known the sacred beauty of our natural environment, I have always been a firm advocate for conservation,” Prime Minister Davis said, at the event held at St. John’s College. He added:  “What we have here in The Bahamas is unlike anywhere else in the world. Our landscapes, both marine and terrestrial, are contenders to be world wonders.  US astronaut Scot Kelly has said on multiple occasions that The Bahamas is the most beautiful place from space.  And we are just as beautiful up close as we are from hundreds of miles away.” Minister for the Environment and Natural Resources the Hon. Vaughn Miller also brought remarks; and students from New Providence, Grand Bahama and Cat Island were participants in the workshop. Prime Minister Davis noted that within “this immense beauty” was also the potential to support livelihoods through fishing, agriculture and aquaculture, and tourism. “That is why my Government has priortised the cultivation of the blue and green economies from day one,” he said.  “It is critical that we protect our marine and coastal environments to fully tap into the unbridled potential for economic growth and sustainability that we know exists. For this reason, we must remain committed to protecting and preserving the valuable natural assets that we have.” “Our waters are the lifeline of our economy, our heritage, and our people. It is our duty to protect them,” Prime Minister Davis added.  “Organisations like BREEF are doing incredibly valuable work that benefits us all.” Prime Minister Davis stated that they must all support those efforts and work together to mitigate the ongoing threats to the environment. “Some of the threats are internal, like overconsumption, which is one of the biggest contributors to pollution of our environment and the depletion of stocks of marine species due to unsustainable harvesting practices,” he said. “Other forces at work are external, particularly climate change, which poses the biggest threat to our environment and our people,” he added.  “We have already seen the effects of temperature increases on our waters, triggering coral bleaching events that impact the entire region.” Prime Minister Davis pointed out that the effects of climate change were only projected to get worse, which “puts both us, our environment, and the flora and fauna that coexist with us at risk”. “That is why I continue to advocate for more action and assistance for Small Island Developing States like ours on the world stage,” he noted. “We must also lead the way by adopting a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly way of life,” he added.  “The Government recognises the important role it plays as we transition our islands to renewable forms of energy like solar.” Prime Minister Davis told the students that he had no doubt that he was standing in the presence of “some of the brightest young minds in The Bahamas." He said: “As young leaders, you have the power to promote conservation, to advance climate justice, and to effect change. And we all have individual contributions we can make as well. We can all use less single-use plastics, for example, and less fossil fuels in our personal lives -- whether that means a future vehicle purchase that is hybrid or electric, being more conscious of our electricity consumption, or choosing sustainably packaged products and finding ways to reuse the plastic products that we purchase.” Prime Minister Davis said that, as young leaders, they must not underestimate the impact of their voices. “Speak up and speak loudly,” he stated.  “Each one of you has a part to play in securing a sustainable future.” He added:  “We can all be effective advocates. So stand up today, and demand a better future.  Absorb these discussions you have today so you can arm yourself with even more knowledge to be a more effective advocate and change maker in this world. “Our country is worth fighting for -- to preserve all that is beautiful about our environment, our way of life, and our people. Let’s all commit to doing our part to fight for progress.”  

The Bahamas Celebrates Commonwealth Day with a Focus on Climate Resilience

Mon, Mar 11th 2024, 02:43 PM

Director General in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Jerusa Ali said as a member of the Commonwealth, The Bahamas is able to achieve more collectively than separately.

“Commonwealth activities support national objectives to promote educational and personal development opportunities for the Bahamian youth and encourage economic diversification toward the realization of improved living standards for Bahamians to meet the sustainable development goals,” the DG said during the Ceremony Commemorating Commonwealth Day at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, March 11, 2024.

The theme for this year’s Commonwealth Day is, 'One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth'.  Schools from around the nation were able to watch the ceremony via Zoom.

The DG said, “The Commonwealth Day theme this year is particularly important for us: climate resilience—How do we fund it? How can we leverage Commonwealth SIDS knowledge in the adaptation and mitigation space? How can we seek pathways to climate friendly development?”

She explained that as the Commonwealth seeks to centre its engagement on climate on the road to Samoa and the Commonwealth Heads of Government.

The DG said most recently, The Bahamas participated in a “write shop” sponsored by Pacific Commonwealth Island SIDS (Small Island Developing States) to help support the nation’s joint submission to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the Climate Advisory Opinion.

“By presenting unified and compelling arguments, Caribbean and Pacific states can contribute significantly to shaping the international legal framework governing states' responsibilities towards mitigating climate change and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable nations and future generations.”

She said, “The Bahamas remains deeply committed to the shared values of the Commonwealth. These shared values are evident in the implementation of policies of inclusion on digital currencies and the digitization of government services; policies of protection for the environment and natural resources; and policies of empowerment for youth, women and girls, persons with disabilities, and other diverse groups.”

Commonwealth Day is observed each year on the second Monday in March to celebrate the spirit of friendship, mutual support, progress, and diversity of the Commonwealth of Nations.

The Commonwealth of Nations consists of 56 countries which seek to mobilize its collective agenda to: protect and preserve the environment and encourage sustainable practices; boost trade and economy; support democracy and good governance; develop society and further advance youth and gender equality; ensure access to education, health, food and shelter; discuss and resolve the matters of climate change; and represent the needs of Small Island Developing States and vulnerable States.

Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue the tradition of visiting local schools to educate students of the Commonwealth, both past and present, and the impact of this global family on their everyday lives.

Several Ambassadors attended the ceremony with British High Commissioner, His Excellency Thomas Hartley and Head, Multilateral & Political Affairs Bureau, Marjorie Julien bringing remarks during the ceremony.

Director General in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Jerusa Ali said as a member of the Commonwealth, The Bahamas is able to achieve more collectively than separately. “Commonwealth activities support national objectives to promote educational and personal development opportunities for the Bahamian youth and encourage economic diversification toward the realization of improved living standards for Bahamians to meet the sustainable development goals,” the DG said during the Ceremony Commemorating Commonwealth Day at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, March 11, 2024. The theme for this year’s Commonwealth Day is, 'One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth'.  Schools from around the nation were able to watch the ceremony via Zoom. The DG said, “The Commonwealth Day theme this year is particularly important for us: climate resilience—How do we fund it? How can we leverage Commonwealth SIDS knowledge in the adaptation and mitigation space? How can we seek pathways to climate friendly development?” She explained that as the Commonwealth seeks to centre its engagement on climate on the road to Samoa and the Commonwealth Heads of Government. The DG said most recently, The Bahamas participated in a “write shop” sponsored by Pacific Commonwealth Island SIDS (Small Island Developing States) to help support the nation’s joint submission to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the Climate Advisory Opinion. “By presenting unified and compelling arguments, Caribbean and Pacific states can contribute significantly to shaping the international legal framework governing states' responsibilities towards mitigating climate change and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable nations and future generations.” She said, “The Bahamas remains deeply committed to the shared values of the Commonwealth. These shared values are evident in the implementation of policies of inclusion on digital currencies and the digitization of government services; policies of protection for the environment and natural resources; and policies of empowerment for youth, women and girls, persons with disabilities, and other diverse groups.” Commonwealth Day is observed each year on the second Monday in March to celebrate the spirit of friendship, mutual support, progress, and diversity of the Commonwealth of Nations. The Commonwealth of Nations consists of 56 countries which seek to mobilize its collective agenda to: protect and preserve the environment and encourage sustainable practices; boost trade and economy; support democracy and good governance; develop society and further advance youth and gender equality; ensure access to education, health, food and shelter; discuss and resolve the matters of climate change; and represent the needs of Small Island Developing States and vulnerable States. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue the tradition of visiting local schools to educate students of the Commonwealth, both past and present, and the impact of this global family on their everyday lives. Several Ambassadors attended the ceremony with British High Commissioner, His Excellency Thomas Hartley and Head, Multilateral & Political Affairs Bureau, Marjorie Julien bringing remarks during the ceremony.

BNT Thanks the Public for Voicing Concerns Over Suspected Illegal Activity Near Bonefish Pond National Park

Tue, Mar 5th 2024, 10:41 AM

On February 25th, The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) received several reports from concerned citizens about suspected environmentally harmful activities happening in the Bonefish Pond National Park area. The reports included an eyewitness account of fill being dumped into the wetland.

Following these reports, BNT teams immediately conducted aerial and on-the-ground patrols, confirming the activities were not occuring within the park boundaries. However, there is still concern about its effects on the fragile coastal wetland and marine environment at Bonefish Pond National Park. The BNT will continue to monitor the situation closely, and is in communication with nearby landowners who provide reports of suspicious activities in the vicinity of the park.

“We humbly thank our park stakeholders and concerned citizens who reported the activity and voiced their concerns for Bonefish Pond,” said Chantal Curtis, BNT Parks Planner and New Providence Parks Manager. “Because of their vigilance, we were able to quickly investigate the matter at hand. We’ll continue our weekly patrols to safeguard this precious national park.”

BNT Executive Director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle said, “Although the area where the incident has taken place is outside of the park’s boundary, the concerns expressed by citizens show an increased awareness of the importance of conserving our wetlands, and the integrity of Bonefish Pond.

“The recent show of community stewardship inspires us, as local community support is an essential component of effective national park management and protection. It is our collective responsibility to ensure the protection of our nation's natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations.”

The BNT thanks the public for keeping a watchful eye and voicing their concerns about activities impacting their national parks. We encourage the public to report suspected illegal activity they see happening within or near national parks across The Bahamas, by contacting the BNT’s new Enforcement Hotline at (242) 396-0188.

To report suspected environmental violations outside of national park boundaries, the public should contact the Department of Environmental Planning & Protection (DEPP) at (242) 322-4546 or email: inquiries@depp.gov.bs.

To learn more about the BNT's role in managing national parks, protecting wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs and follow its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

On February 25th, The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) received several reports from concerned citizens about suspected environmentally harmful activities happening in the Bonefish Pond National Park area. The reports included an eyewitness account of fill being dumped into the wetland. Following these reports, BNT teams immediately conducted aerial and on-the-ground patrols, confirming the activities were not occuring within the park boundaries. However, there is still concern about its effects on the fragile coastal wetland and marine environment at Bonefish Pond National Park. The BNT will continue to monitor the situation closely, and is in communication with nearby landowners who provide reports of suspicious activities in the vicinity of the park. “We humbly thank our park stakeholders and concerned citizens who reported the activity and voiced their concerns for Bonefish Pond,” said Chantal Curtis, BNT Parks Planner and New Providence Parks Manager. “Because of their vigilance, we were able to quickly investigate the matter at hand. We’ll continue our weekly patrols to safeguard this precious national park.” BNT Executive Director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle said, “Although the area where the incident has taken place is outside of the park’s boundary, the concerns expressed by citizens show an increased awareness of the importance of conserving our wetlands, and the integrity of Bonefish Pond. “The recent show of community stewardship inspires us, as local community support is an essential component of effective national park management and protection. It is our collective responsibility to ensure the protection of our nation's natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations.” The BNT thanks the public for keeping a watchful eye and voicing their concerns about activities impacting their national parks. We encourage the public to report suspected illegal activity they see happening within or near national parks across The Bahamas, by contacting the BNT’s new Enforcement Hotline at (242) 396-0188. To report suspected environmental violations outside of national park boundaries, the public should contact the Department of Environmental Planning & Protection (DEPP) at (242) 322-4546 or email: inquiries@depp.gov.bs. To learn more about the BNT's role in managing national parks, protecting wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs and follow its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) calls on Environment Minister

Wed, Feb 28th 2024, 11:51 AM

Officials of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations including Alexis Bonte, FAO representative for Jamaica, Belize and The Bahamas, and in-country representative for Venezuela, along with His Excellency Ambassador Winston Pinnock, Permanent Representative to the FAO in Rome, Italy, called on the Hon. Vaughn P. Miller, Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources and the Hon. Zane Lightbourne, State Minister for the Environment on February 22, 2024.

Their discussions included potential environmental projects that intersect with agriculture with the possibility of potential partnerships.  Also present for the call were David Davis, Permanent Secretary; Keith Philippe, FAO National Correspondent; Precious Thompson, FAO National Consultant; Shacara Lightbourne, FAO Project Manager; Fayne Thompson and Keino Cambridge, MENR Consultants.  Pictured from left: Fayne Thompson, MENR Consultant; David Davis, Permanent Secretary; the Hon. Vaughn P. Miller, Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources; Alexis Bonte, FAO representative for Jamaica, Belize and The Bahamas and in-country representative for Venezuela; the Hon. Zane Lightbourne, State Minister for the Environment; HE Ambassador Winston Pinnock, Permanent Representative to the FAO in Rome, Italy; and Keino Cambridge, MENR Consultant.