St. Lucia

When did you join the CCI?

The Government of Saint Lucia joined the CCI in May 2013 when the CCI’s Leaders Declaration was signed together with other Government Leaders on Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

Why did your government join the CCI?

To declare its support for the principle and general content of the document, as it accentuates the critical policy commitments that is in keeping with Saint Lucia’s national policy for sustainable development, preservation and conservation of its marine and coastal resources.

How is the CCI important to marine and coastal conservation in the Caribbean?

Caribbean countries depend largely on their valuable, but scarce marine and coastal resources for tourism, fisheries, and local recreation; as such, these resource have long been recognised as being worthy of conserving. The need to sustainably manage, develop and use our marine and coastal resources have been especially emphasised in recent times, particularly in the face of globalisation, environmental changes and anomalies, economic uncertainty and growing pressure on the ever limited resources. The importance of these resources is quite evident via numerous initiatives demonstrated and around the region.

The marine and coastal resources are required for economic and social development, generating economic activity for residents in the coastal areas and to improve the standard of living of persons living in the Caribbean. Saint Lucia's marine resources are also essential for the food security of the nation, and the preservation of the resources is of the utmost importance in the country.

How has the CCI enhanced conservation in your country (What have you achieved since the CCI was established?)

Saint Lucia joined the CCI in May of 2013 and in the ensuring year no major activities have taken place. However, the sensitization of local stakeholders (public and private sector) on the objectives of the CCI and the value of protected areas and its contribution to livelihood and to economic and social development in Saint Lucia has taken place.

What are your country's main conservation priority actions under the CCI?

• The reviewing, updating, endorsement and operationalization of Saint Lucia’s National Systems Plan
• Develop and operationalize sustainable financing mechanism for protected and marine management areas
• Review, update and develop legislation for protected areas.

How is the CCI approach different from past approaches to marine and coastal conservation?

Previously, marine and coastal conservation was done by individual countries on a National basis, but now with the CCI the focus is on Regional and collaboration with the other countries participating in the CCI. this will allow for knowledge and resource (natural and human) sharing on a regional scale.

Who is your CCI focal point?