National

Forestry Director: Protecting Wetlands Is Essential

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Environment Minister Vaughn Miller is leading a delegation to Cuba this week where the topic of discussion was wetlands and mangroves and their importance to the environment.

Published

2 years ago

July 11, 2023

Berthony McDermott

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Environment Minister Vaughn Miller is leading a delegation to Cuba this week where the topic of discussion was wetlands and mangroves and their importance to the environment.

Director of the Forestry Unit in the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Danielle Hanek says the concern is unregulated land use.

She says while development is important, the connection to the environment is also important.

While mangroves are protected, she says the goal is to build regional partnerships to increase the ability to protect wetlands and mangroves in The Bahamas.

While at the Ramsar regional conventions and marine workshop in Cuba, Hanek says they’re learning of the use of wetlands in the Caribbean region.

Senior Science Officer in the Bahamas National Trust Lindy Knowles also attended the event.

He says a discussion on transboundary issues needs to be considered.

Addressing diplomats in attendance, Environment Minister Vaughn Miller said The Bahamas is vulnerable to water scarcity because the freshwater reserves are limited.

As a result, he said we remain vigilant to ensure any threats to water quality concerns are adequately managed to supply safe and clean water to the population.