The Barbados Wetlands Trust (BWT) has received formal confirmation that it has been granted Observer status with the International Mangrove Center (IMC) based in China. The Trust will use this opportunity to share Barbados’ experience in wetland conservation and learn from countries and organisations working to restore and protect mangroves.
Based in Shenzhen, the IMC is an inter-governmental organisation that promotes international cooperation to conserve, restore and sustainably manage mangroves.
The Trust’s immediate priority is to bring that exchange of expertise to bear on the restoration and long-term management of the Graeme Hall Wetland. Lessons from Graeme Hall will help guide the development of the Barbados Wetlands Sanctuary Network, which aims to protect wetlands across the island and create opportunities for public education and responsible access.
Anthony J. Da Silva, Protector of The Barbados Wetlands Trust, said:
“At Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary, we’ve seen how people value the chance to spend time in a wetland and see nature and wildlife for themselves. Our work with the International Mangrove Center can help us make better decisions about how we restore these important ecological sites and care for them over the long term. We want future generations of Barbadians to inherit healthy wetlands they can visit, learn from and enjoy.”
The Trust thanks the IMC Secretariat for guiding its application and looks forward to continuing its work of conserving and protecting Barbados’ important remaining wetlands.