Observing World Wetlands Day

Despite being a day late I would still like to wish Trinidad and Tobago a happy World Wetlands Day. As many of us know, this day is celebrated on February 2^nd every year since it concurs with the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands in 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar. Currently in Trinidad and Tobago, there are three sites designated under the Ramsar Convention: Caroni Swamp, Nariva and the Buccoo Reef Bon Accord Lagoon Complex.

These wetland sites are a main hotspot for species biodiversity and are home to threatened species such as the blue and gold macaw and the manatee. We as Trinbagonians should be delighted to have such rich biodiversity in our little twin island. However, these wetlands are often viewed as mucky and dirty and have no value to humans. This misunderstanding has caused wetlands to be threatened by: agriculture, pollution, human settlements and industrial developments. Unfortunately because of these threats, most of Trinidad and Tobago’s wetland areas have been destroyed and only 1% is presently covered by wetlands. It is important to remember that management of these wetlands is significant in order to sustain their healthy functioning which is essential for stakeholders because of the use of the multi-resources produced such as:

·         

         Protection of coastal areas and shorelines

·         They act as nurseries

·         They allow ecotourism and recreation sites

·         They filter pollutants and sediments

·         They act as flood storage

·         Maintain a balanced carbon cycle

·         Retain nutrients

With this being said, initiatives should be taken to encourage other Caribbean islands to join the Ramsar Convention and to increase its acceptance. Training and education courses for stakeholders should be encouraged as to prevent the degradation of these wetlands in order to uphold our biodiversity.

Be the Solution, not the Problem- Conserve and Protect