Eleuthera Native Launches Business to Combat Climate Change

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ELEUTHERA, THE BAHAMAS- Eleutheran Dr. Selima Hauber has joined the fight to combat the impact of climate change by launching her business, Coastal Biotech.

During a recent trip to Eleuthera, she told us how it all works.

Dr. Selima Hauber – Founder, Coastal Biotech

“Coastal biotech is a native plant nursery using the technology of plant micropropagation or tissue culture to generate coastal species particularly sea oats “

Sea oats are protected perennial grasses and according to Dr. Hauber, they are the primary species for dune stabilization.

She says due to the impending threat of rising sea levels for The Bahamas, harvesting sea oats is crucial.

Dr. Selima Hauber – Founder, Coastal Biotech

“Sand dunes are the last barrier of defense from tidal surges in storms, so without healthy sand dunes in land development is threatened.”

Although the company is in its early stages, she’s designed her business plan for mass production.The estimated start-up cost totals 175 thousand dollars.

Dr. Selima Hauber – Founder, Coastal Biotech

“The method of propagation we are using is in fact a laboratory so there are a number of expensive equipment that needs to be required, acquired in order to produce the plant at such a high volume”

While it’s a costly venture, Dr. Hauber says its worth it, in order to protect the environment.