Nevis marine biologist addresses international conference
Saturday, April 10, 2004
CHARLESTOWN, Nevis: Barbara Whitman, the
founder of the Sea Life Education Center in Nevis known as “Under the Sea”
recently participated in the White Water to Blue Water Partnership Conference
in Miami. Representatives from 31 countries met for this important initiative
aimed at finding ways to protect the Caribbean environment.
Experts from around the world agree that the
countries of the Caribbean Basin need to cooperate more on both a regional and
international level to protect one of the world’s most pristine eco-systems.
This conference drew several hundred experts representing the fields of
education, finance, health, agriculture, planning and tourism – all working
together to articulate their national priorities and identify potential
partners to address their needs. The White
Water to Blue Water Partnership Conference, held March 21-27, focused on
promoting greater regional cooperation regarding integrated watershed and
marine eco-system management; strengthening the capacity for countries to
address land-based sources of marine pollution; developing sustainable
fisheries, agricultural and forestry practices; preventing the degradation of
coastal areas and meeting the challenges associated with tourism.
Ms. Whitman sat on an important panel discussion regarding Cruise Ship
Initiatives in the Caribbean. As a marine biologist and a business operator on
Nevis offering shore excursions to cruise ship passengers, such as her “Touch
& Go” snorkeling expedition and environmental education programs, she is
considered one of the region’s leading authorities in the area of sustainable
tourism.
As a result of the discussions at the
conference, it was announced that a partnership between the International
Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) and the non-governmental organization,
Conservation International, will begin to address establishing Destination
Partnerships between ICCL, Conservation International and the independent
tourism operators in the Caribbean.
These same bodies will also work to promote
Environmental Education programs for both residents and tourists to the
Caribbean as well as offering Vendor Environmental Education programs to
lessen the impact that suppliers place on their island eco-systems, including
the best practices for wastewater management.
The conference was organized by the U.S.
State and Commerce Departments, who pledged millions of dollars in funds for
projects aimed at fostering environmental cooperation among countries in the
region. Many other international partners including the UK, France and Canada
are also developing programs to support the initiatives proposed at this
conference.
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