ECO
BAHAMAS
JUNE 2013
EXPLORE OUR NATIONAL PARKS 25+
parks across the archipelago!
HOUSING MATTERS providing value for money
Caribbean Challenge Initiative Photo Essay exuma land
& sea park tour
&
CLIMATE CHANGE protecting nature; protects our future
Ministry of The Environment & Housing
1
TURN OFF THE LIGHTS WHEN NOT IN ACTIVE USE Environmentally Friendly......Saves You Money Ministry of the Environment and Housing 2
BAHAMAS INFORMATION SERVICES 2013
MESSAGE from
KENRED
MIN.
DORSETT U
pon taking office as Minister of the Environment and Housing I committed myself to beginning a campaign to inform the Bahamian people of the benefits of conservation and other subjects relative to the environment. I envisioned having as apart of the campaign an external newsletter for my ministry that would present to the public information of the work being done by the ministry on a quarterly basis. This idea over the past year has morphed into a full blown magazine. The publication that you now hold in your hands or are reading electronically is the first issue of Eco Bahamas. A magazine produced by the Ministry of the Environment and Housing with contributions from various islands and organizations within this country. T his inaugural issue serves as an introduction of my ministry and it’s partners. Our associates and partners in the work of environmental research, conservation, and protection have sent in articles that will educate members of the public on the work that they were created to do and are doing presently. These organizations such as the Nature Conservancy, the Bahamas National Trust, the Bahamas National Pride Association, the Bahamas Reef Environment Education Foundation and others have agreed to contribute to every issue of this magazine and I would like to extend my gratitude to them for their cooperation. Also in this issue you can read of a young woman’s first time at the Nassau Botanical Gardens, a place that I envision will become the Central Park of Nassau where our people will be able to retreat from the hustle of the city and commune with nature. Dr. Rhianna Neely of the BEST Commission informs us of climate change and its effects on The Bahamas . And we are fortunate to have essays written by students of the Bishop Michael Eldon School on Grand Bahama who participated in BORCO and Statoil’s after school programme on Petroleum and Measurement Products. Also in this issue we introduce several of the posters that are apart of my ministry’s conservation campaign and announce our 4 for 40 initiative. You can look forward to this publication becoming bigger and better as we continue this work. In future issues we will have feature interviews and will be offering advertising space for companies and other interested persons and organizations. I sincerely hope that this publication will fulfill the purpose for which it was created, which is to educated and encourage Bahamians on the preservation of our environment and to keep the nation abreast of what is going on within the Ministry of the Environment and Housing. I am pleased to present to you EcoBahamas Magazine. 3
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(BNT) BAHAMAS NATIONAL TRUST
Cape Eleuthera Island School
38 18 FRIENDS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
PHOTO ESSAY : EXUMA LAND & SEA PARK
Borco & Statoil
OPERATION DERELICT VEHICLES
48 HOUSING MATTERS
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Credits Executive Editor
Minister Kenred Dorsett
Managing editor Joette Penn
MAGAZINE DESIGNER
44 22
CONTENTS
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Toneka Neely
Design Associate D’Asante Beneby
ARTICLE Contributors Bahamas National Trust Bahamas National Pride Assoc. Island School, Eleuthera Friends of the Environment Andros Conservancy & Trust Dr. Rhianna Neely B.R.E.E.F Ah-Manda CampbellSimmons Estrella Brown
Photos
Joette Penn Eleanor Philips Bahamas Information Services Bahamas National Trust Hadassah Ward Brian Kakuk Island School Eric Carey BORCO/Statoil
BOTANICALGARDENS
my first trip to
S
o there I was a grown woman on her way to the Nassau Botanical Gardens, never having been there before, although I pass the entrance almost every single day. I had just joked the other day with someone that the gardens was just a plot of grass, not knowing that I was going to find out just how wrong I was. Of course as I always do I called before I went and arrived a few minutes after that call. When I entered the gates, which I found out later was actually the rear entrance, I met a lovely lady at the guard house who asked if I would like a tour. After looking at me, her next question was, “did you bring flat shoes”. I outfitted myself in the spare pair of shoes that are always in my car and we were off to walk around in the grass....I thought.
expansive roots that made the man standing beside it seem like a child instead of the fully grown man that he was. It was simply majestic in stature and stood there with the presence of a steadfast guardian daring any wind or other weather element bold enough to come try it.
The first thing I saw was a giant cotton tree with [ cont’ on pg.8 ]
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CHENACT -AP
The Caribbean Hotel Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Action –Advanced Program-
REPORTER: LaToya Johnson - M.B.A., M.S.E.
| Project Manager
EMAIL: CHENACTBahamas@gmail.com
Efficiency measures in any average hotel could provide potential savings of up to 30-50% in energy usage and 50% in water consumption. These energy efficiency actions concurrently have the ability to diminish the costs on utilities and by extent, contribute to a competitive industry. On the other hand, energy efficiency measures also contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions derived from the sector’s activity. Since hotels extensively operate appliances that use Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) such as air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, implementing energy efficiency measures will result in the reduction of Ozone Depleting Substance agents at the same time.
“ Energy cost is a major concern for hotels in the Caribbean due to the region’s dependence on imported fuels for electricity generation.”
The energy matrix of the Caribbean is 90% composed of fossil fuels as most electricity generation in the region comes from imported oil. The cost of electricity has skyrocketed in the last few years due to a dramatic surge in oil prices with expected volatility and price increases evident in the very near future. These issues have raised concern within the regional hotel industry since the high utility price directly impacts fares for final consumers. In this light, any energy savings is directly reflected on a lower utility bill and a more competitive cost structure. Studies have shown that implementing Energy 6
The adoption of standardized Energy Efficiency practices will assist with making the tourism industry more competitive and promote “green” tourism, through lower energy costs which are a significant portion of a hotel’s operational costs, and a positive environmental footprint that can be marketed to reach environmentally aware customers. The introduction of Renewable Energy technologies will relieve some of the pressure on energy generation by diversifying the energy matrix for the energy provider. The net impact of these measures on the economy will be reflected on the overall regional energy costs that are highly correlated with oil and gas international prices and fluctuating supply. The Caribbean Hotel Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Action –Advanced Program (CHENACT-AP) aims to promote energy efficiency (EE) in the hotel industry, with the participation of a number of organizations and donors interested in the sustainable development of the sector. The first phase of the CHENACT Project was initially started in Barbados in 2009. The second phase of the project, CHENACT-AP, was activated in 2012 in The Bahamas, Barbados, and Jamaica and will also aim to bundle the carbon emission reductions (CERs) from all three
countries, as a result of the energy efficiency measures and renewable energy applications. The Project will eventually develop a Program of Activities as climate finance instruments to bundle the CHENACT-AP reduced emissions and provide carbon credits for sale in the international carbon markets. Additionally, there will be positive impacts to the environment in terms of reductions in greenhouse gases and ozone layer depletion. The overall objective of the CHENACTAP Project in The Bahamas is to improve the competitiveness of small and medium sized hotels through efficient use of energy, with the emphasis on Renewable Energy and MicroGeneration. The Project will be managed in stages. The first stage will involve energy audits of participating hotels and recommendations on how to improve energy savings. The energy audits will then be transformed into financial proposals that can be presented to international or local financial institutions to obtain funding for implementation. The audits will consist of thirty (30) comprehensive energy audits, thirty (30) walk-through assessments and a demo renewable energy installation on at least one property. The Project is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and it is being executed by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) with the technical support of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) and Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST). It is also sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) of The Bahamas and the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), the Center for Development of Enterprise (CDE), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The first phase of the CHENACT Project included detailed energy audits mainly in Barbados, but also included a few audits in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago. One of the main objectives was the establishment of investment plans for the hotel industry to assist with reducing its energy demand through the implementation of energy efficient appliances and renewable energy micro generation. It also aimed to receive potential carbon credits from GHG emission reductions. The results of the CHENACT Phase I project demonstrated a potential Energy Efficiency savings for the hotel sector in Barbados of up to 32,600 MWh per year. This amount translated to 36% of their total hotel sector energy consumption and 3% of the total electricity consumption in the country. All hotels audited to date have potential savings of up to 30-50% in energy usage and 40-50% in water usage.
T
he
Honorable
Kenred
Dorsett
M.P.,
Minister of Environment and Housing declared
his
full
support
of
the
Project at the launch on Thursday,
February 7th, 2013 by stating that his Ministry and the Government will support the objectives of the CHENACT-AP in the following ways:
The Introduction of a Renewable Energy Act The Introduction of Net Metering with the Grid
The Creation of an Independent Regulatory Entity for the Energy Sector The Development of an Energy Unit within the Ministry of the Environment The Provision of a Business License Tax Credit for hotels that had energy audits performed The Further Reduction of Customs Duties on Renewable Energy Equipment and Devices The Review of Existing Regulatory Framework for the Energy Sector
CHENACT Project Launch
7
A
BOTANICAL GARDEN’S cont’d from pg.5
s we walked along the nice lady told me that she had been working at the gardens for seventeen years and how much she loved being there. After passing what looked like a concession house of some kind and a spot that she said was popular with photographers, we came to the base of a long winding double staircase. Between the twin staircases was a cascading waterfall that was not in service but even so I could tell just how beautiful it must be when operational. I looked up the staircase and thought to myself, “Lord how in the world am I going to make it to the top of all these stairs”. You see I had started the squat challenge last month and had just done one hundred and eight five squats the night before. I took a deep breath and started up the stairs. I was grateful when I got to what I thought was the top only to be told by the “nice” lady to keep going. At the top of the stairs there is a landing resembling a tree house that is referred to as the Sir Milo’s Loft that had a grand view of the surrounding neighbourhood. Apparently this spot was popular for weddings but can no longer be used because it has been deemed unsafe.
The monument is shaped like a steeple and is inscribed with the country’s motto, Forward, Upward, Onward, Together and these words, “to the people of the Bahama Islands at the birth of their nation July 10th, 1973 from the people of Delta Airlines.”
A
s we continued walking along the nice lady pointed out the indigenous trees and flowering plants. She speaks of the glory days of the gardens and tells me how she wishes she had brought her photo album so that I could see the gardens in its hay day. She pointed out Kamalame and Chinese Guinep Trees and spoke of how the gardens used to be so lush with flowers. We came to an arch and she said to me, “you know I should have taken you the other way so that you can really see the arch”. I thought to myself already sweating in my work clothes and pantyhose, “the other way??”. The other way although longer took us directly to what is the ‘Conch Shell Arch’ a stone grotto like structure whose ceiling is made of conch shells, a magnificent sight indeed. It was well worth the walk....the other, longer way.
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W
e walked to the front entrance that faces Bay Street. There stands a monument which was given to the Bahamian people in celebration of the country’s independence. The monument is shaped like a steeple and is inscribed with the country’s motto, Forward, Upward, Onward, Together and these words, “to the people of the Bahama Islands at the birth of their nation July 10th, 1973 from the people of Delta Airlines.” Continuing ahead there is the front arch which is where a commemorative plaque can be found identifying the gardens as a historical site. On that plaque the following words can also be found, “once known as the ‘pit’ these gardens were an old rock quarry supplying stores for roadways and Fort Charlotte. The idea for the gardens was conceived in 1951 by Oris Russell, then of the Ministry of Agriculture. Opened at the time of Independence July 10th, 1973 – the gardens provide a tranquil retreat for nature loving residents and visitors.
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I
learned a lot from this nice lady, that loves her job, even though as I write I can not recall her name. She taught me about something that as a Bahamian I should have known. The Nassau Botanical Gardens consists of eighteen acres of land south of the Fort Charlotte. It is a tranquil site of indigenous trees and flowering plants, including the national tree and flower, the Litum Vitae and Yellow Elder respectively. The gardens house several waterfalls and fountains on this beautiful parcel of land in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.
W
hen we were done with the tour, the nice lady said to me, “we just walked all eighteen acres”. After hearing this I thought to myself, “no squats tonight”. She invited me to come back in June when the flowers are in bloom and I will definitely be taking her up on that offer.
Cotton Tree - Botanical Gardens
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S E CI [
[
The Cape Eleuthera Island School
Ashley Akerberg
INNOVATION The Cape Eleuthera Island School (CEIS) and its component organizations: The Island School (IS), Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) and the Deep Creek Middle School (DCMS) developed out of a vision to serve The Bahamas through education and research that would pioneer regional leadership and innovation towards a more sustainable future.
RESOLUTIONS Located on the southwestern tip of Eleuthera, The Island School was founded in 1999 as a semester abroad program for high school students from The United States, The Bahamas, and around the world. All courses are explicitly linked through education grounded in principles of place-based curriculum, so students and faculty can examine complex academic topics that support a holistic approach to solving local, regional, and global problems. Now with almost fifteen years of expanding programs, local service and regional partnerships, the Cape Eleuthera Island School is recognized for its collaborative approach to problem solving. 12
AWARENESS
The Bahamian Environmental Steward Scholars (BESS) program was developed by The Island School and the Bahamas Reef Environmental Education Foundation (BREEF). It offers Bahamian high school graduates a scholarship to attend an Island School semester as well as an internship with partnering organizations in the field of marine sciences. The opportunity promotes awareness of environmental concerns within The Bahamas through hands-on learning and training. The Deep Creek Middle School and Resource Center opened in 2001 and developed out of the community outreach and mentoring programs of The Island School. DCMS is the only independent middle school in The Bahamas recognized by the Ministry of Education and the first Green Flag eco-certified school in the Caribbean. DCMS shares the teaching philosophy and works collaboratively with both The Island School and the Cape Eleuthera Institute. DCMS students are actively engaged in understanding and protecting their fragile home environment. This promotes academic growth and responsible citizenship to prepare students to be “the future leaders of The Bahamas.�
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C A P E ELEUTHERA
Island School
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS CEI was founded in 2006 to administer The Island School’s research program with study areas related to tropical ecology, marine biology, and sustainability. It also hosts visiting educational programs and field courses for students from Pre-K to PhD and models “green” technologies that promote self-sufficiency and inform new policies. Research at CEI addresses several issues relevant to The Bahamas and other small islands, including waste systems, food security and renewable energy production, supporting CEIS’s goal of promoting regional sustainable development.
CEI collaborates with University of Miami RSAMS and corporate partners using cutting edge technologies to make warm-water, open ocean aquaculture a reality.
The aquaponics system is demonstrating how fresh water fish and leafy greens can be produced within a single, sustainable system, here in The Bahamas. In 2011, CEI built the first bio-digester in The Bahamas, a model ideal for an archipelagic nation with fragmented waste management systems. The technology exemplifies CEIS’s vision of problem solving by taking sewage, an unwanted waste product, and transforming it into usable outputs. Both the rich fertilizer and Alongside the organization’s zero-waste goal, usable methane gas created by the bio-digestion campus technologies are developed out of a vision process, serve as solutions to energy dependence. to serve as a laboratory for innovative sustainable design. CEI couples wind energy produced by a CEIS looks forward to a future of problem campus turbine with power harnessed from the solving and continued collaboration with largest solar array in The Bahamas to run the labs regional partners and invites educators, scientists, and campus. Most recently, CEI is working with government officials, planners, developers, resort BEC to develop a system to accurately measure operators, and stakeholders Thursday, April 18, how much power is produced and sent back to 2013 to attend A Symposium on Tourism and the grid. The sustainable aquaculture program Coastal Development, with the goal of “Working works to explore solutions to regional food together to define the economic opportunities for scarcity issues. Eleuthera. 15
F RI E N D S friends of the environment
COPYRIGHT BRIAN KAKUK
Friends of the Environment (FRIENDS) was created in 1988 by a group of Bahamians and residents who lived in Hope Town and were concerned about the natural resources of the country - fish were getting smaller, conch were getting harder to find, and fishermen were having to travel further to get their catch. Over the last 25 years FRIENDS has grown from Hope Town to encompass all of Abaco and is working to protect and preserve both land and sea through education and grassroots programs and to be a resource to businesses and government councils and Ministries on sustainability and conservation topics. In the last four years FRIENDS has provided over 6,000 educational opportunities to local students by providing field trips, summer camps, after school programs and partnerships with habitat restorations. FRIENDS works with all 27 schools in Abaco to get students out of the classroom and into the environment.
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In addition to our focus on education, FRIENDS has four programmatic goals: Ensuring all primary habitat types in Abaco are represented in protected areas; Reducing human impact on marine ecosystems; Reducing litter, and Significantly reducing Hawaiian Seagrape in commercial and residential properties with a long term goal of reducing Hawaiian Seagrape in Abaco. FRIENDS hopes to work with the Ministry of Environment and Housing on the first goal of protecting all primary habitat types in Abaco. FRIENDS and our partners in conservation currently have three proposed protected areas before Government for consideration. Each of these areas represents key habitats in Abaco that are important to the future of its natural resources. As such the proposals are to protect the habitats themselves, not to keep people from continuing to use them for activities like bonefishing, birding or boating. What follows is the conservation profile for each area.
East Abaco Creeks Proposed National Park Friends of the Environment and The Bahamas National Trust worked in partnership with the community to create a National Park proposal which includes the Snake Cay creeks, the Bight of Old Robinson and Cherokee Sound in Central Abaco. This is an extensive wetland habitat connected hydrologically through blue holes. A proposal based on community suggestions was filed with The Bahamas National Trust in 2009 and submitted to Government. This proposal aims to protect vital wetland habitat in the East Abaco Creek system, while still allowing fishing within existing limits of the law.
“Over 6,000 educational opportunities to local students�
South Abaco Blue Holes Proposed National Park This proposal was developed through the efforts of Bahamas Caves Research Foundation, and The Antiquities Monuments and Museums Corporation with the support of Friends of the Environment and The Bahamas National Trust. Reaching more than 8 miles in length and lying under 5,000 acres of land, these caves are now repainting the picture of Bahamian natural history with the fossil remains of ancient human and animal species as well as many newly discovered living species. These unique, natural treasures found nowhere else on earth are threatened by pollution and water contamination, deforestation, development and unrestricted diving. National Park designation was chosen as the goal in order to address the needs for proper management and sustainability of the area. The proposal was submitted to The Bahamas National Trust in 2010.
THE KAYAKERS enjoying
East Abaco Creeks
Cross Harbour Proposed Conservation Zone This proposal was initiated by The Abaco Fly Fishing Guides Association and has advanced with help of Friends of the Environment, The Nature Conservancy and other partners who are working to protect this area by applying for 1,800 acres of crown land from Blackwood Point to Cross Harbour Point to be declared a Conservation Forest (no-build zone). This proposal was submitted to The Ministry of The Environment and The Forestry Department in October 2009.
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T
he Nature Conservancy is the world’s largest non-profit organization, working in all 50 United States and over 30 countries including the Bahamas using scientifically-sound methods and a non-confrontational approach to protect natural resources to support human life. The Conservancy along with support from its members and active participation from its conservation partners has protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide. Additionally, the Conservancy is involved with more than 100 marine projects globally.
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n 2008, The Nature Conservancy and key Caribbean leaders launched the Caribbean Challenge, to date the largest multi-national conservation effort that aims to build political support and generate long-term funding to protect at least 20 percent of participating countries’ marine and coastal habitats by the year 2020. This initiative takes a comprehensive approach to protecting biodiversity and preserving human livelihoods in the insular Caribbean through a network of sustainably managed protected areas that are resilient to climate change and other natural and human induced threats. Since its launch, ten countries have committed to the Challenge, including The Bahamas.
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ithin the Bahamas, the Northern Caribbean Office has provided leadership, technical, financial and in-kind support to partners including the government, academia, businesses, and local NGOs to help safeguard The Bahamas’ biodiversity and promote sustainable resource use. Some major accomplishments include: > Worked with The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) and stakeholders to develop protected area management plans for Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, Abaco National Park and Andros West Side National Park;
> Worked with the US Forest Service and BNT to initiate the Kirtland’s Warbler Research and Training Project which provided financial assistance to College of the Bahamas students to further their education (up to the Bachelor of Science level)in conservation related fields; > Provided resource specific training opportunities for BNT staff and other local natural resource managers involved in forestry management and Marine Protected Area management; > Provided technical assistance and galvanized community support for a national marine reserves network, including the development of the Marine Reserves Management Plan; > Led the development of The Bahamas National Protected Area System Master Plan, which includes an Ecological Gap Analysis, assessment of Protected Area Management assessment, a Capacity Action Plan and a Sustainable Finance Plan; > Assisted the Government with drafting legislation to establish the Bahamas Protected Area Fund; > Led rapid ecological assessments of the west side of Andros, the Ragged Islands, Samana Cay, Plana Cays and Mayaguana >The development of a coral nursery in New Providence and Andros growing 1000 fragments of staghorn and elkhorn corals > Conducted a socioeconomic survey and an evaluation of the natural resources of the Island of Andros; > Participated in the development of a proposal to expand the Andros West Side National Park which was successfully done in October 2009 and; > Worked with the Department of Marine Resources, Bahamas Marine Exporters Association, Friends of the Environment on Abaco, World Wildlife Fund and other NGOs to coordinate and execute activities that support improving management of spiny lobster populations in the Bahamas.
BORCO AND StAtoil Petroleum Products and Measurement Course Pilot Programme Last September, Minister Dorsett attended the official launch of BORCO and Statoil’s Petroleum Products and Measurement Course Pilot Programme. The course is geared towards high school students to educate them on the career opportunities available within the petroleum industry. While at the launch Min. Dorsett stated that programmes such as this one, “is to prepare them (referring to the participants) for the
jobs of future by provided them with marketable skills and education.” The launch was also attended by Minister for Grand Bahama, Hon. Michael Darville and Minister of Education, Hon. Jerome Fitzgerald. The pilot programme participants were ten students of the Bishop Michael Eldon School on the island of Grand Bahama. Below are essays by two of the students who were apart of this initiative chronicling their experience.
By: Ah-Mandah Campbell-Simmons As the world and its facilities progresses so does the demand for petroleum products. Petroleum or ‘Crude Oil’ is a compound mixture of hydrocarbons in its natural state before being refined. It is normally classified as a viscous, dark colored liquid that is highly flammable or simply called a ‘dirty product’. Crude oil can be sent to refineries through pipelines to produce many other products such as jet fuel, kerosene and gasoline. In recent days petroleum products has became an essential part of our everyday lives because, living in a world that depends highly on electronics, without the products it would be impossible to charge our devices, use air conditioners in the summer months and preserve our food items. Being a part of the petroleum class I have learned from the many presenters that this is an industry that constantly strives and that the career paths are endless in this field. Depending on an individual’s qualifications and knowledge their career position would differ ranging from engineers (electrical, mechanical, civil, chemical or design) oil inspectors that constantly test the oil for numerous factors such as presence of water, impurities and oil levels, marine pilots that steers ships in and out of harbors, health safety& environment managers ensure that each employee take correct precautions get the job done efficiently, oil movement managers and several others. Despite the difference in the career positions each field has the same goal which is to
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protect themselves and those around them and to secure and transport the products to the best of their ability. The effects the industry has on the community can be both positive and negative. It can cause the fluctuation of gas and food prices, when the oil is being imported and exported it tends to give off a foul odor that can be toxic to those in close proximity causing different health problems also if the operation is not properly managed an oil spill can occur. The fumes of jet fuel and other gases can cause pollution to both the land and sea. However in order to survive this movement of importing and exporting oil must be done. It allows individuals opportunities to travel for leisure or business, provides details for cars, shampoos and even toothpaste. Therefore the community must endure the negativity to improve their lives. The Petroleum & Measurement class has exposed me to different aspects of life and how it takes one basic product to create a wide variety of items. I was briefed with the history of the industry, rules and codes followed by persons of different titles, the type of weather conditions one must work in and the modern industry and the ways in which it had become an asset to our lives. This course also enhances my drive to one day be a part of the production and to put the information taught to me to good use. By: Estrella Brown The knowledge of the Oil Industry for most people is limited to the gas that fills the tank of their vehicle. Despite this, the fact still remains that the oil industry is one of, if not the most important industry in the world today. The Oil Industry consists of many different fields and aspects. It provides job opportunities in broad fields such as: operations, health safety security and environment, marine piloting, maintenance, information technology, finance and human resources. Having said this, I along with others, have been able to embark on the amazing journey of the oil industry through the “Petroleum and Measurement Pilot program�. During the first few weeks, we were taught general and basic facts about the oil industry and petroleum itself. Within the general teachings, we were taught about hydrocarbons, blending, the refining process, shipboard operations, oil trade patterns and so forth. Throughout the course of
the program, different presenters have spoken on their specific field of expertise or specific aspects of the Oil Industry. A few presenters were, Mrs. Tanya Seymour- Health Safety Security and Environment (HSSE), Makarios Rolle - Marine Manager, Kyle Ward- Marine Pilot and Ryan Henry- Engineer. Through these presentations, I gained knowledge about things such as the basic six (6) different types of fee based ancillary services to health and safety precautions which are very important in the industry. The Petroleum and Measurement Pilot program also entailed a view of samples of grades of crude oil, as well as live demonstrations of oil and water testing and flashpoint. During these demonstrations, the presenters made sure we were involved and got a first class experience. The field trip to BORCO and Statoil allowed my peers and I to see the labs and equipment used for testing crude oil. During these field trips, they capitalized on safety and made it known that it must be top priority. During the BORCO field trip, we got a chance to take a trip on a tug boat to the jetty. The sea was a little rough and rocky. I believe this is when many students realized that maybe marine piloting is not their calling. Nevertheless, I personally thought the experience was very exciting. Marine pilot Mr. Kyle Ward informed us on some basic things such as: the mooring process when ships come in, sea trade, pilotage as well as situations where pilots are out at sea for a week. Throughout the course of the program, we were given a few written tests and assignments to keep our minds fresh and to see what we had learned thus far. Each presentation and field trip was educational as well as interesting. During each session, I learned something new whether it was possible career choices from the oil industry or that you get more out of your gas if it is bought during a cool point in the day. In a nutshell, the Petroleum and Measurement Pilot Program has been a very beneficial experience. It has taught me the effects of the oil industry on society, as well as the wide variety of careers within the oil industry. Most importantly, it has shown me how important it is for citizens and young people of the Bahamian community to invest in an industry that can greatly enhance our nation.
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THE Bahamas National Trust Managing the National Parks of The Bahamas
A primary function of the Bahamas National Trust is to build and manage the national parks and protected areas of The Bahamas. This responsibility, mandated by the Bahamas National Trust Act 1959, makes the Trust unique as the only self-funded, non-governmental organization to manage a country’s entire national park system. Within these parks and protected areas are many unique features: the world’s largest breeding colony of West Indian Flamingos, one of the world’s most extensive underwater cave systems, the world’s first park to encompass land and sea areas that is also one of the first marine fishery reserves, one of the world’s most successful marine turtle research facilities, one of the world’s largest
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privately owned collection of rare palms, the largest uninhabited island in the Wider Caribbean existing in a natural, undisturbed state, and 250 acre wetland in south central New Providence that is home to more than 100 bird species and is the largest roosting area for Herons and Egrets on New Providence. Currently the Trust manages 27 parks and protected areas throughout the 700 islands of The Bahamas comprising a total of more than 1.6 million acres. Collectively, our national parks and reserves are an impressive representation of tropical island ecosystems and resources. As such they are source of tremendous pride and enjoyment for the Bahamian people and of paramount importance to tourists and conservationists.
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Grand Bahama
Lucayan National Park: Established 1977 ; Size: 40 acres The park ( located between Freeport and Freetown at Gold Rock Creek) features an underwater cave system that has been charted for up to six miles. Other attractions include elevated walkways through the mangrove wetland, a magnificent unspoiled beach, one of the highest coastal dunes on the island, and a diverse range of fish and waterfowl. Lucayan skeletons were discovered in one of the caverns and other preColumbian artifacts have been found. Only certified cave divers are permitted to explore the cavern system.
on Grand Bahama. It is a well known birding hot spot, especially from October to May when the resident bird population is augmented by wintering songbirds. Known for its nature trails and public education programmes, the Centre acts as a community resource for environmental concerns. The Glory Banks Art Gallery provides a venue for Grand Bahama artists to display their work.
Peterson Cay Park: Established 1968; Size 1.5 acres This low-lying limestone cay is located about 15 miles east of Freeport and a mile offshore. It offers a spectacular snorkelling experience and Rand Nature Centre: Established 1992; is popular picnic spot. It is often an important seabird nesting site in the summer months. Size 100 acres The Rand Nature Centre in Freeport is the headquarters of the Bahamas National Trust
ABACO
Abaco National Park: Established 1994 ; Size 20,500 Established to protect the major habitat of the Abaco population of the endangered Bahama Parrot, the Abaco National Park comprises 20,500 acres in Southern Abaco. The park is dominated by Caribbean pine forest, but it also contains substantive acreage of broadleaf coppice, the other major habitat required by the parrot for foraging.
Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park Established: 1972; Size 2,100 acres Located 8 miles north of Cherokee Sound, Great Abaco, this 2,100 acre land and sea area is a sister park to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. It contains beautiful undersea caves, extensive coral reefs and abounds with terrestrial plant and animal life.
Tilloo Cay Reserve Established: 1990; Size Fowl Cays National Park: Established 11 acres Eleven acres of wild and pristine natural 2009; Size: 3 sq.miles Set aside by the Bahamian government as a environment that provides nesting for Tropicbirds national Land and Sea Park, this (approximately) as well as other seabirds. 3 square mile reserve is conveniently reached from most central Abacos cays and settlements. The reefs and three 25’ to 40’ dive spots in untouched water are truly spectacular.. With a variety of tunnels and towers to explore, the sea life is abundant --almost as if it knows it is protected.
Walker’s Cay Marine Reserve Established: 2002; Size 3,840 acres The northernmost island in The Bahamas, Walker’s Cay is fringed by its own barrier reef. The stunning coral formations and surrounding marine environment host schools of pompano and amberjack, large marine predators, such as sharks and barracudas, multitudes of colorful tropical fish, turtles and eagle rays. Renowned for underwater cathedrals teeming with fish, visibility that reaches 100 feet and an endless variety of marine life, this acre underwater paradise is a mecca for divers.
of Blue Holes in the world. This park was established to protect a large area of blue holes with their surrounding coppice and pineland forests and part of Andros’ extensive freshwater lens. Northern and Southern Marine Parks Established: 2002; Size 64,834 acres Andros has the third largest barrier reef in the world. These two parks were established to help preserve parts of this valuable reef ecosystem.
Crab Replenishment Reserve Established: 2002 Identified as the best land crab habitat Black Sound Cay Reserve Established: in central Andros, this area is designated to 1988; Size 2 acres Located off Green Turtle Cay in Abaco, ensure a sustainable land crab population for this miniature park comprises a thick stand future Androsians. of mangrove vegetation and is an important habitat for waterfowl and other birds which West Side National Park Established: 2002 Expanded 2012 winter in the region. The West Side National Park is a vast area of coastal mangrove habitat that is an important nursery area for conch, crawfish Blue Holes National Park Established: and many fish. It is also a very important Bone fishing area and is utilized by many bird 2002; Size 33, 235 acres Andros has the highest concentration species, including the Caribbean Flamingo.
andros
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neW PROVIDENCE
Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park Established 2002 Located in South Central New Providence, Harrold and Wilson Ponds encompass 250 acres. An especially important habitat for waterbirds and home to more than 100 avian species. It hosts the island’s highest concentration of herons, egrets, ibises and cormorants as well as the endemic Bahama Swallow. The area is considered to be indispensable habitat for bird life on New Providence and has been deemed an internationally accredited Important Bird Area. An exceptional educational and ecotourism site, a stone’s throw from the nations capital and tourism hub, these areas are an invaluable addition to the country’s national park system. The Retreat Established: 1985 Size 11 Acres An 11 acre garden of rare and exotic palms and native coppice in residential Nassau. Housing one of the largest private collections of palms in the world. An important green space in heavily urban eastern New Providence,and as such is of critical importance for both resident and migratory birds on the island. The Administrative headquarters of The BNT is located on the grounds. Bonefish Pond National Park Established: 2002 Size: 1,280 acres Bonefish Pond lies on the south central coast of New Providence. It is an important marine nursery area for the
island, providing a protective, nutrient rich habitat for juvenile stocks of fish, crawfish, and conch. This area supports a wide variety of waterfowl and an important variety of Bahamian flora. The wetland itself provides critical protection from storm surges to communities along New Providence’s southern shore. The educational and ecotourism potential of this wetland area is significant. The Trust has recently added a 600 foot boardwalk and viewing platform which provides access for teachers and students studying mangroves. Primeval Forest Established: 2002; Size 7.5 acres This small remnant tropical broadleaf forest is remarkably relatively undisturbed. This old growth forest is representative of the early tropical hardwood forests of The Bahamas. Located in the southwest portion of New Providence, the forest features sinkholes; unique limestone “caverns” up to 50 feet long, 30 feet wide, and in some cases 30 feet deep. Similar features elsewhere in The Bahamas have provided fossil and subfossil remains of Bahamian fauna as well as Lucayan and Bahamian artifacts.
eleuthera
Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve: Established 2011 The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, a 25-acre sanctuary created jointly by the Bahamas National Trust and the Leon Levy Foundation. The Preserve is the first National Park on Eleuthera and has already injected more than $2 million into the local economy. The Preserve was designed by world renowned landscape architect Raymond Jungles and subtropical plant expert, Dr. Ethan Freid. The Preserve features over 171 species of indigenous plants and more than 34 species of birds, including the Antillean Bullfinch. Over 100 varieties of medicinal plants and more than 25 different economic plants are among the 2,000 native trees, shrubs and herbs recently added to the site.
exuma
The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park: Established: 1958; Size 176 sq. miles This 176 square mile park was the first of its kind in the world and is famous for its pristine beauty, outstanding anchorages and breathtaking marine environment. It is the first marine fishery reserve established in the Caribbean. Since being declared a no-take marine area in 1986, the park
has been documented to support significantly higher populations of marine life, especially commercially important species. In some instances, grouper tagged in the park have been found in Southern Long Island, more than a hundred miles away. ECLSP is also home to a diverse seabird population that includes large numbers of Audubon’s Shearwater, Puffi nusiherminieri and the White-tailed Tropicbird, Phrethan lepturus and has been identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Moriah Harbour Cay National Park: Established: 2002; 13,440 acres Moriah Harbour Cay and its marine environs are a vital part of the ecosystem between Great and Little Exuma. It encompasses pristine beaches, sand dunes, mangrove creeks, and sea grassbeds. A variety of birdlife nests there, including gullbilled and least terns, nighthawks, plovers, oyster catchers and ospreys. The mangroves serve as important nursery habitat for juvenile stocks of fish , crawfish , and conch, gray snappers, yellowtails and groupers. Landward, palmettos, buttonwoods, bay cedar, and sea oats work in concert, providing stability, nutrients, and beauty to the ecosystem. Moriah Harbour Cay is an outstanding example of the Bahamian coastal zone and is and important part of the national park system.
conception island
Established: 1964; Size 2100 acres Historically, Conception Island National Park is signifi cant as one of the three islands where Columbus landed in the New World. Today it is an unspoiled island sanctuary for migratory birds and a nesting site for Green and Hawksbill Turtles. Located on its own bank west southwestof San Salvador, the island was established as a national park in 1964. During Spring and Summer seabirds useit as a breeding cay and experts believe that Conception Island has the largest concentration of nesting Tropicbirds in The Bahamas and that Booby Cay off the northwest corner of the island is one of the largest Sooty Tern and Brown Noddy colonies. The island has been designated an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International.Conception Island National Park is also significant as a marine protected area with a vast Montastraea reef lies to the north of the island and is the largest continuous example of such habitat in the Caribbean. The lagoon also has mangrove stands and and extensive beds of Laurencia red algae, many of which provide key nursery habitat for young Nassau Grouper and spiny lobster.
GREAT HOPE
Great Hope House and Marine Farm: Established: 2002; 3.6 acres Located on the west coast of Crooked Island on 3.6 acres of land, these two Loyalist compounds include a military battery and a plantation with main house and kitchen. Marine Farm is 4.5 miles north of Great Brine Pond and mile northeast of Landrail Point.
INAGUA
Little Inagua National Park: Established: 2002 Size: 31, 360 acres & seabed to the 10 fathom mark Remote and inaccessible and with no fresh water, Little Inagua is by far the largest uninhabited island in the Caribbean. It exists in a undisturbed state and the biodiversity implications and values are enormous. Oceancurrents flow through The Bahamas from southeast to the northwest. As a result, Little Inagua is upstream of the rest of the country. It’s surrounding waters contribute to the supply of fisheries, eggs and larvae and sub adults that are swept into the parts of the Bahamas marine territory. Park designation increases the percentage of marine ecosystems under protection for fishery replenishment purposes.
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Union Creek Reserve: Established: 1965; Size: 4,940 acres The Union Creek National Reserve is seven square miles of enclosed tidal creeks on Great Inagua’s northwest shore. This shallow creek serves as prime habitat for young Green Turtles, Chelonia mydas (typically when they are about 25 cm in length), where they may remain for decades. Union Creek National Reserve is a critically important research site for sea turtles, with special emphasis on the Green turtles which has been studied there since 1974. Some of the most important scientifi c data on this endangered turtle has been provided through studies conducted jointly by the Bahamas National Trust and the Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research at the University of Florida. Inagua National Park: Established: 1965; Size: 183,740 acres Inagua National Park is internationally renowned as the site of the world’s largest breeding colony of West Indian fl amingos. Today the population numbers approximately 50,000 birds after having made a 40-year journey back from the edge of extinction. As early as 1905, concern for the West Indian Flamingo in the Caribbean was intense. The hunting of fl amingos coupled with disturbances of the bird’s habitat led to a drastic decline in the population. With the creation of the Bahamas National Trust and the effective management of its habitat, the flamingo population is now vibrant and thriving. The success of the Inagua National Park is evident in the repopulating of other islands in The Bahamas - Andros, Crooked Island and Acklins Island - as well as Cuba, Turks and Caicos Islands and Grand Cayman. The flamingo is not the only star of Inagua National Park. The native Bahama Parrot, the endemic Bahama woodstar hummingbird, Bahama pintails, Brown pelicans, Tri-colored herons, Snowy egrets, Reddish egrets, Stripe-headed tanangers, Cormorants, Roseate spoonbills, American kestrels, and Burrowing owls abound in the Park’s interior. Wild Donkeys trot amongst the mangroves, freshwater terrapins inhabit the ponds, and natural bonsai forests grace its interior. In 1997, the Inagua National Park was designated a Wetland of International Importance, as The Bahamas became a signatory to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. Inagua National Park is a birders paradise qualifying it as an Important Bird Area based on Birdlife International’s criteria.
CLIMATE CHANGE DR. RHIANNA NEELY
Our world is a constant cycle of change. Times change, seasons change, people change, weather changes, even our climate has changed in the past. However the climate change that we are experiencing now has mainly been found due to the emission of warming gases known as greenhouse gases (GHGs) into our atmosphere. Climate refers to the average weather conditions of an area over many years. For example, in The Bahamas we experience a tropical marine climate that is moderated by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Climate change is slated to have many different effects on the planet and indeed The Bahamas, some of them yet unknown. Likely changes include increases in average temperature and decreases in average rainfall, among others (CARIBSAVE, 2012). For those changes that we anticipate, we can prepare to address them in the most efficient manner. The Bahamas’ government has dedicated countless resources to preserve our way of life in the face of climate change. There are also simple steps everyone can take to reduce our contribution to climate change. This article will outline a few that also have money saving potential.
Potential Climate Change Impacts
The relatively small size of our country and our dependence on the tourism industry make us vulnerable to economic fluctuation the tourism market. The Government of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas accepts the findings of the Inter Governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and of other expert scientific bodies, that global temperatures are increasing due to the release of GHGs into the atmosphere as a result of the burning of fossil fuel and other human activities (Bahamas, 2005; IPCC, 2007; Landsberg, 1958; Mann, et al, 1998). The government further accepts the scientific predictions that this trend of global warming will likely continue for several decades, even if causative activities were to cease immediately (IPCC, 2007a, 2000). The government further accepts that global warming will result in climate change which may be manifested in several ways. We may be particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, leading to loss of coastal lands, seasonal flooding, changes in marine conditions, due to archipelagic nature and the consequent extended coastline and low elevations, changes in rainfall patterns, more frequent and/ or more severe weather events. The government further recognizes that our vulnerability crosses different sectors of the economy and will impact our normal way of life. For example, there are no rivers in The Bahamas and we derive the majority of our freshwater from underground aquifers, which are climate sensitive. Fluctuations in
sea-level and rainfall will present different challenges. Other anticipated effects on The Bahamas are given below: 1. Submergence of coral reefs and flooding of wetlands and coastal lowlands, 2. Loss of marine diversity and fisheries productivity because of rises in ocean temperatures 3. Damage to coral reefs 4. Loss of terrestrial biodiversity resulting from rises in temperature 5. Changes in seasonality of rainfall 6. Depletion and pollution of potable ground water supplies 7. Loss of agricultural land and reduced agricultural productivity from salinity 8. Heat stress-related syndromes 9. Increases in coastal erosion and infrastructure damage Increased frequency and intensity of tropical storms, hurricanes and storm surges.
ADAPTING TO CLIMATE CHANGE
As we contribute only a very small amount of total GHG emissions, but face disproportionate levels of risk from the impacts, due to our geography and dependence on the tourism industry, The Bahamas signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1992 and ratified in 1994. Given the government’s limited capacity to reduce GHG emissions, and its vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, it must place an emphasis on adapting to global climate change. 31
CLIMATE CHANGE continued
H
G
es The UNFCCC perceives vulnerability as a “starting point” rather than the
as
“end point” and it is assumed to be a measurable trait (O’Brien, et al., 2004b; Smit and Wandel, 2006). In accordance with this commitment, the National Policy for ou the Adaption to Climate Change (NPACC) was fostered, with the aim to guide a national plan of action formulated in a coordinated and holistic manner, to address short-, mediumen and long-term effects of climate change (Bahamas, 2005). The policy will ensure to the greatest e r possible extent that the quality of the life of Bahamians and opportunities for sustainable development are not compromised.
G
se
There are many aspects to the adaptation policy, however there is particular focus on the industries expected to be adversely affected by climate change. Agricultural production is important for national food security as well as for the generation of employment and foreign exchange (Bahamas, 2005). The policy directives concerning energy are of particular importance to The Bahamas. While several gases are contributing to the alteration of the planet’s climate, carbon dioxide is the largest single source (Bloom, 2010; Hansen and Sato, 2001); with its primary source being the combustion of fossil fuels. Electrical power in the Bahamas is generated by the importation of liquid fossil fuels. In fact, imported petroleum products satisfy over 99% of the consumer energy demand (Bahamas, 2008). This also accounts for some 65% of The Bahamas’ carbon dioxide emissions and consume a substantial quantity of foreign exchange (Bahamas, 2005). The demand for electricity is only expected to increase in response to climate change and the impending rising temperatures. The government of The Bahamas is moving to achieve energy security and promote energy efficiency and conservation through the implementation of the Bahamas National Energy Policy (Bahamas, 2008). The government of The Bahamas also collaborates with other entities on climate change and sustainable development matters, including, but not limited to the Caribbean Planning for Adaptation to Climate Change (CPACC), Caribbean Community Climate Change Center (CCCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to better prepare The Bahamas and its citizens for the impacts of climate change and to preserve The Bahamas for future generations of Bahamians. There are also steps individuals can take to reduce their fossil fuel consumption and dependence, many of which have a personal economic benefit attached. For example: 1. Purchase/ Drive a fuel efficient vehicle 2. Carpool or use public transportation more often 3. Reduce household energy use by using the clothes-line or tank-less water heater 4. Use fans and wear cool clothes in the summer as much as you can instead of using the a/c 5. Turn off lights and small appliances when not in use 6. Unplug chargers when they have finished charging 7. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs 8. Consume less and find new uses for old products. We as Bahamians may not be able to contribute much to the reduction of GHG emissions into the atmosphere. The Bahamas we experience today may be undergoing changes that remain to be seen, with that in mind, we can still take measures to reduce our reliance on activities that lead to GHG emissions by adopting some of the given household changes. Our government is deeply invested in insuring the viability of our nation and the success of Bahamians and the Bahamian economy in these changing times. Let us do our part to ensure a climate change ready, beautiful Bahamas for future generations of Bahamians and visitors alike.
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Cooling Conservation Tips
*Set to a higher temperature and use fan to circulate the air. *Use a fan instead of A/C as much as possible *Be sure windows are closed and the blinds or drapes drawn. *Know the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). A/C systems should be at least 15. *Set the temperature at 85 degrees or off when nobody is at home. * Place the condenser in a shaded or cool area to increase efficiency
Environmentally Friendly.........Saves You Money 33
The Bahamas R ee f Environment Educational Foundation BREEF is a non-government, non-profit, Bahamian
and Marine Resources, Ministry of Education, Ministry
relationship between Bahamians, visitors and our marine
organizations such as The Bahamas National Trust, The
foundation whose mission is to promote a sustainable
environment. We aim to bridge gaps between science
research, public education and policy, to inspire action for the conservation of marine resources that help to sustain our way of life.
(i) BREEF was established by Sir Nicholas Nuttall, in
1993 with the objective of developing a wider awareness
of threats to our marine environment, and promoting actions to protect our marine resources.
(ii) BREEF is a non-profit Bahamian charity governed by
a volunteer Board of Directors with six board members. Full time staff includes the executive director, Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, office manager/ environmental educator, Charlene Carey and outreach manager/Eco-
Schools coordinator, Marcia Musgrove. Interns and
of Tourism & Aviation and with non-government
Nature Conservancy, Friends of The Environment and the Island School/Cape Eleuthera Institute BREEF Programmes/Projects
(i) Marine Conservation Teacher Training Workshops & Professional Development Seminars BREEF is
well-known for it’s week-long experiential Marine
Conservation Teacher Training Workshops. To date, over 600 educators have taken part in a BREEF teacher training workshop. These teachers are now back in their schools, passing on what they have learned to thousands of students.
BREEF also gives staff presentations
and conducts seminars during school staff/department meetings and professional days.
volunteers assist with research projects, public education
(ii) School Curriculum Programmes - In addition to
During the summer months BREEF has a position
instructional programmes: coordinating field trips and
summer intern.
presentations reach over 2000 students throughout
(iii) BREEF works closely with government agencies such
development for the Ministry of Education’s Marine
activities, membership and on fundraising committees.
teacher training workshops, BREEF supports school
available for a high school or college level student as a
classroom experiences for students. Each year our school
as Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Agriculture
the country. BREEF also assisted with curriculum Science Magnet Programme.
Minister Dorsett at BREEF’s Virtual Coral Reef Field Trip Workshop
(iii) Eco-Schools Bahamas (ESB) Programme – This international programme aims to raise students’ awareness of global and local sustainable development issues through classroom study, as well as school and community action. Schools follow a simple, seven-step process to actively engage students in assessing and improving use of resources on their campuses, related to six core themes - energy, waste, water, biodiversity, litter and school grounds. ESB was piloted in 2009 with 7 schools, and in 2013 includes 19 registered schools on 3 islands, with Deep Creek Middle School, Hope Town Primary and Forest Heights Academy becoming our first three schools to receive the international Green Flag Award in 2010, 2012 and 2013, respectively. (iv) Educational Resources – BREEF produces a variety of multimedia educational resources to support classroom instruction and raise public awareness on marine conservation issues. These include audio and video public service announcements, brochures/fact sheets, booklets, short films, posters, and lesson plans/activities. (v) Sustainable fishing programmes - BREEF works with the Department of Marine Resources and the commercial fishing industry to promote sustainable fisheries practices, and has held workshops for fishermen on topics such as Marine Reserves, Nassau Grouper and Reef Fish Spawning Aggregations. BREEF has been instrumental in encouraging the Bahamian government to designate a network of Marine Reserves around the country and to implement a closed season for Nassau grouper during the fish’s winter spawning period. BREEF also acted to encourage the ban on sea turtle harvest and on commercial shark fishing in The Bahamas.
(vi) Bahamas Environmental Steward Scholars Programme – This is a year-long academic and work experience programme for graduating high school students in the Bahamas interested in the environment, conservation and sustainable systems/development. Participants take part in a four-month paid internship with a conservation-related organization which may either precede or follow the 14week academic course of study at The Island School, Cape Eleuthera. Since its inception in 2008, 24 scholars have participated in the programme. (vii) Conservation Makes Cents Campaign – the public awareness campaign consists of a series of multimedia public service announcements and events which link marine conservation to the health of the Bahamian Economy. (viii) National Coastal Awareness Month – The activities during April of each year highlight the importance of the coastal environment, and increase public awareness of the threats to our coast and what each person can do to make a positive difference. BREEF coordinates the National School Competition. BREEF is also one of the three organizations that initiated this effort in 2002. (ix) Science and Research Projects – BREEF collaborates with local and international scientists and partner organizations to facilitate research that will support the sustainable use of our natural resources. Past/current projects include wetland restoration initiatives, coral reef surveys, Nassau grouper spawning aggregation studies, sea turtle tagging, conch midden studies, crawfish recruitment, lionfish surveys & removal and marine reserves network surveys.
Exuma Minister Dorsett Tours Exuma Land and Sea Park
S
hortly after taking office as minister, Mr. Dorsett took a tour of the Land and Sea Park in the Exumas. He was accompanied by the then Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Housing, Lorraine Armbrister, Philip Weech of the BEST Commission and Eric Carey of the Bahamas National Trust. The minister and his delegation were taken around the Exuma Land and Sea Park by boat driven by Park Warden Andrew Kriz. The delegation was also taken on a tour of the Land and Sea Park Headquarters, where they were shown the gift store, the wardens accommodations, the electricity room and how refuse is disposed of. On the way back to main land Exuma Min. Dorsett was taken to Compass Cay and was taken to see the ‘swimming pigs’.
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PHOTO ESSAY
Exuma Land and Sea Park
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The Bahamas and the C aribbean C ha l l enge I nitiati v e
The Caribbean Challenge Initiative (CCI) was launched in May of 2008 with Caribbean countries such as The Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Dominican Republic committing to protect twenty percent of their respective marine and coastal habitats by the year 2020. This is to be done through the establishment of protected area systems. The CCI was created to safeguard jobs within the fisheries and tourism sectors for citizens of the Caribbean, to provide funding for the management of the protected areas and to protect Caribbean biodiversity. At the Ministerial Segment of the Caribbean Challenge Initiative’s Senior Officials Meeting (SOM 3) held in San Juan, Puerto Rico this past March. The previous meeting (SOM 2) was held here in The Bahamas on the island of Grand Bahama. Minister Dorsett made a presentation to the group assembled in San Juan about the strides The Bahamas has made in regards to meeting the goals of the Challenge. The minister first reminded the group that The Bahamas has always been committed to environmental protection which is evident in the establishment of the Exuma Land and Sea Park some fifty years ago. Mr. Dorsett went on to state some of the accomplishments made by The Bahamas. He said that The Bahamas had: 1.
Increased our national park inventory to over 2 million acres
2. Enacted and amended several critical pieces of environmental legislation
3.
Banned long line fishing
4.
Declared our exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as the first shark sanctuary in the Americas
5.
Provided significant funding to support the management of our national park system and
6. Declared under the Fisheries Resources ( Jurisdiction & Conservation) Act five new marine reserves. The minister went further, outlining the approach that The Bahamas will take to expand our marine and coastal areas as mandated by the Initiative. He said, “our approach to expanding our marine and coastal areas is to use ALL tools available to us including the Fisheries Act, expansion of our parks and protected areas; and zoning through the Forestry Act to protect our mangrove ecosystems.” Accompanied at the meeting by Philip Weech, Director of the Bahamas Environment Science and Technology (BEST) Commission and Eric Carey, Director of the Bahamas National Trust, Minister Dorsett told the other officials that The Bahamas was “endeavoring to complete our goal of 2.5 million hectares of land and sea areas being identified as protected under our GEF full sized project.”
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CCI caribbean challenge
initiative continued
the body. The minister began by thanking the host country’s government and their co-hosts the government of Grenada. He also expressed thanks to Virgin Airlines billionaire Sir Richard Branson who allowed his home on Necker Island to be used for the gathering. Minister Dorsett continued stating that The Bahamas and its people had been described as, “inextricably linked to the environment, our shallow blue seas and our way of life. The environment sustains our lives and livelihoods. The environment is the very foundation of our economic activity.” He said the government’s support of the Caribbean Challenge Initiative is driven by it’s recognition of this simple truth and that is why it worked so assiduously to bring it (CCI) into being. The minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to CCI. As relates to The Bahamas’ progress in the goals of the Caribbean Challenge. The minister said that, “ the government of The Bahamas has approved the finalization of legislation related to the Bahamas Protected Area Fund (BPAF) and it will be presented to Parliament for debate shortly.” He explained that, “BPAF is a model piece of legislation developed with wide stakeholder consultation and input as a sustainable finance mechanism to support protected areas management in The Bahamas.”
In addition to the introduction of the BPAF legislation that minister said that the “since the launch of CCI The Bahamas has declared six additional marine protected areas” that there Another GEF funded project mentioned by the are more areas to protect. He said that the government intends minister was a project the government of The Bahamas has to expand its national park and protected area system. been implementing “focused on controlling or eliminating the threat of the Invasive Alien Lionfish in protected area.” Minister While at the meeting Minister Dorsett signed the Leaders Dorsett also informed that the Cabinet of The Bahamas has Declaration on behalf of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. before it the Bahamas Protected Areas Fund (BPAF) Act for He said that, “ Not only will The Bahamas sign the Leaders consideration This act along with other legislation is to aid in Declaration, my government also plans to complete several making the management of protected areas more other strategic activities that will bring The Bahamas closer to financially stable. achieving the goal of protecting twenty percent of its marine Minister Addressing CCI Political and Business Leaders Summit
The Minister ended his presentation by taking issue with the financing mechanism of the Challenge. He mentioned that the criteria being used in the awarding of funds should be considered in regard to The Bahamas which is a unique model. He told the other country and company representatives there, “the future we want cannot be achieved by using any single criteria such as per capita income. The Bahamas, he said, “is an archipelagic nation, though its per capita income is relatively high, it is attributed to populations and economic activities on 3 inhabited islands.... there is no model like ours anywhere in the region, where a government has to replicate infrastructure on every inhabited island.”
environment by 2020.”
CCI Political and Business Leaders Summit 2013
The Caribbean Challenge Initiative’s Political and Business Leaders Summit was held this past May in the British Virgin Islands. The minister of the Environment and Housing attended the meeting on behalf of The Bahamas and addressed 42
Minister signing Leaders Declaration
the Andros
CONSERVANCY AND TRUST
The Andros Conservancy and Trust (ANCAT) was formed in 1997 by local Androsians who wanted to ensure that the future of Andros’ vast natural resources were protected. Ancat is a non government, grass roots, non profit organization which works to protect, preserve, restore and enhance the natural resources of Andros and its marine environment, through education, conservation, and management for future generations. Peter Douglas, a well know Bahamian spokesperson for environmental issues, is the Executive Director of Ancat. Peter, along with ten Androsian Board members ensure that Andros is at the forefront of Bahamian conservation efforts. Over the years the major accomplishments of Ancat have included helping achieve protection status for the grouper spawning aggregations, assisting in establishing the 1.3 million acres Central Andros Nation Park System, and in winning and implementing conservation projects on Andros. Ancat’s strength lies in working at both the grass roots level to involve local communities in conservation efforts and in partnership with a variety of national and international partners.
Habitat restoration also rides high on Ancat’s agenda, we promote clean ecosystems to stimulate the production of more marine life by organizing the clearing of trash from the environment, especially trash which ends up in the water, polluting the marine breeding grounds. Ancat has an active educational component with a vibrant Summer Eco School offered to local children, presently we are training five young men to scuba dive in our sustainable livelihoods programme. And recently Ancat and friends completed the construction of a cabana at Cousteau’s Blue Hole in The Blue Holes National Park. There is always a project on the go the Andros Conservancy and Trust and if you would like more information you can go to our website at www.ancat.net
Currently Ancat is working on developing coral nurseries, in which we are growing Elkhorn and Staghorn corals, both of these are listed as endangered species, the corals will eventually be replanted on the Andros Barrier Reef to replace dead coral caused by bleaching.
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Marshall Road’s
EYESORE
The Derelict Vehicle Site
The Derelict Vehicle Site on Marshall Road has been in its current location for many, many years. Earlier this years after fires broke out at the site residents and the staff of the nearby high school made public complaints via the local media. Minister Dorsett had previously committed to the residents that he would look into the removal of the site from its current location. After the occurrence of fires and smoke emitting from the site Min. Dorsett announced that the government of the Bahamas had decided to move the site to another location. He released a statement to the press in February of this year stating, “the government is aware of a fire at the site and the concern of smoke emanating from the site which is being addressed. We also understand that the existence of the sire has been a vexing problem for some twenty odd years to the residents of Misty Gardens, Marshall 44
Since then the ministry has been working diligently with the Department of Lands and Survey and has identified a site for the removal of the Derelict Vehicle Site from its current location. The Minister says that he is “pleased to inform the general public especially those residents in the immediate area of the existing site such as Misty Gardens and Marshall Road that a parcel of land has been identified for the removal of the Derelict Vehicle Site from its current location. We are now in the process of completing the land allocation, design works Road and the surrounding areas and a time line for capital works inclusive of the Anatol Rodgers to enable my ministry to establish school. This is why we moved a time line for the move.” quickly to bring resolution to this issue. At present we are working The removal of this site will bring along with the Department of much relief to the people living in Lands and Survey to identify an the area and will bring resolution appropriate plot of land on which to a problem that is decades old. the site can be reloaded. As The Minister of the Environment soon as this can be done the and Housing was committed site will be moved.” At time of bringing such relief to those the release the minister was in affected and is way on the way Cuba on a fact finding mission. to bring this issue to a close.
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HELP DESK
Department of Environmental Health Services Help Desk Established
Minister Dorsett, DEHS Director, Assistant Directors and Help Desk Personnel
In a paper outlining the origin and history of the Ministry of the Environment and Housing and the functions of it’s current agencies, Coral Miller states of the Department of Environmental Health Services. “The mandate of the Department of Environmental Health Services (DEHS) includes that investigation of problems and the institution of preventative and remedial measures with respect to environmental pollution, the management of solid, liquid and gaseous wastes, food and drink management, nuisances, rodents, insect pests and general sanitation. This agency is responsible for all activities related to environmental control, solid waste collection and disposal public sanitation, and the public dumps.”
Dorsett, being made aware of the difficulties that the DEHS was having with garbage collection and having been the recipient of many calls from the members of the public concerning this and other issues under the purview of the DEHS. The minister committed to the establishment of a Help Desk at the department. The aim of his decision was for the people of the Bahamas to have a dedicated place they could contact and receive resolution to their grievances as concerns environmental issues.
A few months after making this commitment the minister made an announcement that the Help Desk had been established. At a press conference held in February of this year the minister stated, “I am pleased this morning to formally Early in his first year announce that the Help Desk as minister, Hon. Kenred has been established and it is 46
fully functional. My goal was for the general public to have a specific place they could contact concerning garbage collection, and to report other environmental concerns. My hope is that this desk will foster better communication and accountability between the Department of Environmental Health Services and the public at large.”
is off schedule.” He also said, “I have mandated those who will man this desk to ensure that as much as humanly possible every call, email or message is answered and the concerns addressed to the satisfaction of all concerned.
The minister ended his comments by saying, “we are here to serve the Bahamian people and I sincerely hope that this desk The minister went will assist in serving the further by giving examples people more efficiently.” of the issues that should be reported to the desk and his One of the mandate for the employees of components of the help desk the desk. He said, “For those that has made it successful whose trash is not collected thus far in fulfilling its on time this is the place to mandate as the “first contact. If you have a concern responders”of the DEHS is its with rodents, mosquitoes, or accessibility through several other pests, this is the place different mediums including to contact. Persons should social media. Persons can also be able to ascertain call, email, facebook, tweet on which day their trash is or text the desk five days per scheduled to be collected in week between the hours of order to properly prepare and 9am and 5pm. know when the garbage truck
THE BAHAMAS NATIONAL PRIDE ASSOCIATION CLEAN CAMPUS
WINNERS
PRIMARY SCHOOLS 1st PLACE - GAVIN TYNES -
JUNIOR SCHOOLS 1st PLACE - S. C. MCPHERSON-
SENIOR SCHOOLS 1st PLACE -DORIS JOHNSON -
SPECIAL SCHOOLS 1st PLACE -THE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND-
Bahamas National Pride Association is a non-profit organization founded in 1995 and is dedicated to improving attitudes and behavioral changes that will motivate individuals to preserve an beautify their Environment. Though our standing communities, interested citizens and governmental groups we are able to identify and develop instructive programs and projects. These projects are aimed at combating and promoting litter prevention on a continual basis which will result in altered littering behavioral patterns and pride. Bahamas National Association is an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful incorporated (KAB) from ourinceptionin1995andwe hold the same ideologies. 48
Our Belief 1. We believe that cleanliness is next to godliness. 2. We believe that it is important to protect and preserve the natural resources of The Bahamas for future generations. 3. We believe that the promotion of voluntary recycling will reduce littering. 4. We believe that every Bahamian wants to live in a clean environment. 5. We believe in the creation of a pristine environment that is litter free. 6. We believe that public and private partnership will enhance all of our beautification efforts. 7. We believe that government policies can control the level of littering and the conservation of natural resources, including the marine environment.
8. We believe that education greatly influences public attitudes and behavior about trash handling, recycling and beautification of the environment. 9. We believe that a beautiful, clean environment will have a positive implications for economic development. 10. We believe that a clean and beautiful Bahamas will promote national well-being. 11. We believe each and every one of us can make a difference.
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N B A P AL N O I T A N BAHAMAS IATION SOC S A E D I R P
One of the association’s many programs is the Clean Campus Competition. All Government schools in New Providence are inspected by judges and the winning schools are recognized for displaying and setting standards of environmental pride and excellence by keeping their school grounds and campuses Clean, Green and Pristine. The overall objective of this competition is to inculcate at an early age the positive molding of attitudes and behavior amongst our youth from kindergarten through Grade 12, creating lifelong habits of cleanliness, responsible environmental behavior and National Pride. The theme for this year’s “Clean Campus Competition” “Forward, Upward, Onward, Together with Excellence and National Pride”. This is most appropriate as we embark upon our 40th Anniversary as an independent Nation.
Ministry of the Environment and Housing Min. Kenred M. A. Dorsett
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uccessive governments have seen the merit in assisting the Bahamian people achieve home ownership. Institutions such as the Ministry and Department of Housing as well as the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation were established to ensure that the government has the mechanism in place to assist low and middle income citizens acquire their own dwelling home. Over the years the government has developed many communities or subdivisions consisting of hundreds of single family homes . Some of the first communities constructed were Elizabeth Estates, Big Bond and Yellow Elder Gardens. In more recent times there has been the development of Adastra Gardens, Strachan’s Hill and Pride Estates. Such communities can be found on New Providence, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands.
Although the housing programme has provided the opportunity for thousands to purchase homes, it has had its challenges. There has been expressed concern from applicants about the long wait for available houses. There has also been complaints about shoddy workmanship and questionable inspections from persons who have purchased homes built by the government. These have become frequent topics for national debate on talk shows and in parliament. Stories have been told of ceilings separating from walls, sinking floors 50
and bad plumbing. These and other repairs have cost the bahamian people millions of dollars in addition to the monies expended on construction and infrastructure installation. There is the also the age old question of how many persons have applied and are awaiting homes. Minister Kenred Dorsett, having served as Chairman of the Housing Commission and being a real estate attorney by profession, has made public some of his plans to ensure that the Bahamian people receive ‘value for money’ from the government’s housing programme. The Minister has gotten the ball rolling with the start and or announcement of several initiatives. To ensure that persons applying to purchase government built homes can apply simply and be assured that the Department is in possession of their applications, the minister launched the Department of Housing’s online database this past April. This database will serve several purposes in addition to being an easily accessible electronic location for the storage of applicants information. It will also serve as a mechanism by which the ministry can gather pertinent information to make informed decisions in regards to the types of homes necessary, the demand for government homes and where these homes are needed.
Ministry of the Environment and Housing
Department of Housing ONLINE DATABASE
www. dohbahamas . com APPLY ONLINE FOR GOVERNMENT BUILT HOMES
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he minister has also spoken of the governments intention to retain the services of private inspectors who have professional indemnity insurance and can be held accountable for their work. He has also said that his ministry will begin to hold contractors accountable for shoddy workmanship and that projects will be granted on a meritorious basis. This means that those who build well will receive additional work and vice-versa. All of this is in an effort to provide the Bahamian people with value for money being respectful of the fact that the housing programme has been mostly funded by the National Insurance Board. Shortly after assuming office the minister went on a tour of the government’s housing developments where he decided that he wanted to offer the Bahamian people more for their money by way of the design of the houses offered by his ministry. Minister Dorsett then commissioned the design of new housing models that would still be affordable and comfortable but would also have better curb appeal. All of the minister’s plans will no doubt be put to the test when the government begins construction of one hundred and thirty new homes. Minister Dorsett announced recently that the National Insurance Board and the Ministry of Finance had agreed to make the sum of $10 million available for new home construction. Continuing his quest to provide value for money, Dorsett has said that his ministry intends to build on lots and in subdivisions where infrastructure already exists to ensure that as much of the funds as possible is spent on the building homes. Another major component of the government’s housing programme is the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation (BMC) which also falls under the portfolio of the Minister of the Environment and Housing. This corporation offers home financing by way of granting mortgages to qualified Bahamians who are purchasing homes whether through the government or privately. We will have an in depth article on the history and functions of BMC in our next issue. Also in our next issue we will be elaborating on what is being done to revolutionize the government’s housing programme.
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