Barbados, OECS Countries Wrap Up Regional Closeout Workshop for GEF-Funded IAS Project
Invasive Alien Species (IAS) pose a significant threat to biodiversity around the world, and the Caribbean is no exception. However, there are reasons to be optimistic. A collaborative project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) recently concluded in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), marking a significant step forward in managing and controlling these harmful species.
The project culminated in a three-day Regional Closeout Workshop held in St Kitts. This workshop served a dual purpose: reflecting on the project’s successes and achievements and charting a course for future action. A key component of the workshop was a field trip designed to assess the real-world impact of IAS on agriculture and local livelihoods in both St Kitts and Nevis.
The project’s achievements were acknowledged by the Minister of Environment, who highlighted the importance of collaboration and the commendable progress made in strengthening the region’s capacity to manage IAS. Key partners including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Center for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) were also present at the workshop.
Looking toward the future, the workshop discussions focused on building on the project’s momentum. Establishing a Biosecurity Risk Management Committee emerged as a critical step to ensure continued action in protecting endemic biodiversity. The possibility of a dedicated Caribbean Invasive Species Trust Fund was also explored, alongside the development of improved tools for monitoring and surveillance of IAS.
The project’s impact extends far beyond simply controlling invasive species. By addressing this threat, the project contributes directly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aligns with Target 6 of the Global Biodiversity Framework, which calls for the prevention, control, and eradication of invasive alien species.
Overall, the project focused on preventing the introduction and establishment of IAS, ensuring their early detection, and creating frameworks for effective control and management. With the project’s successful conclusion, the Caribbean is well-positioned to continue its fight against invasive species and safeguard its unique biodiversity for generations to come.