Promoting the blue economy in marine protected areas in the eastern Caribbean

Context

The marine and coastal ecosystems of the eastern Caribbean are home to unique biological diversity. They are 50 times larger than the land area, provide the population with important resources, and are key to the economic development of the coastal regions.

However, ecosystems in the Caribbean are severely degraded. Mangrove areas are being destroyed more and more, and coral coverage and seagrass are in decline. The biggest stress factors include climate change, marine pollution, overexploitation of resources and the destruction of coastal and marine habitats.

Despite political initiatives and marine protected areas, many challenges remain unresolved. Coastal communities and the private sector need to be better involved in decision-making. Conservation measures also need to be implemented more efficiently.

Objective

Development in coastal communities and around marine protected areas in the eastern Caribbean is geared towards implementing a blue economy: this means protecting marine and coastal biodiversity and making environmentally friendly use of it to foster the economy.

Approach

The project works with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). It involves many stakeholders, especially the private sector and local administrations of government authorities in order to encourage environmentally friendly management of marine and coastal resources while achieving an impact locally.

As part of this, it implements three components:

1. It improves cooperation between local officials to develop marine conservation management and promote an inclusive blue economy.
2. It improves the private sector’s involvement in the blue economy to allow it to develop sustainable business models, establish companies and create income and jobs in coastal communities.
3. It disseminates experience and knowledge in order to successfully implement a blue economy within the Caribbean community.

Last updated: February 2025