Beausejour, Carriacou, July 10, 2015- Memories of the many recreational activities that were once held on the shores of Windward, Carriacou were recounted, as the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) launched a climate change project in the boat building community.

Over the last few years the lands close to the shoreline slowly disappeared along with two sand banks in the area.

Therefore; with many homes threatened by the incoming sea and at risk of high energy waves and storm surges; UNEP along with the Government of Grenada has undertaken the “Building Capacity for Coastal Ecosystem Based Adaptation in Small Developing States” Project.

According to Dr. Mark Griffith, Senior Program Officer UNEP Regional Office, the project will train community members in coral nursery establishment and out planting; along with building capacity to manage and protect the reefs.

Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs and Local Government Hon. Elvin Nimrod said that the project comes at an appropriate time when the island is dealing with the buildup of the sargassum sea weed, therefore one must recognize that the problems of climate change is real.

Making reference to the song “Brighten Your Corner Where You Are” Minister for Agriculture, Lands, Forestry and Fisheries Hon. Roland Bhola called on community persons to play an active role in the project.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is also playing a pivotal role in the project; which is also being done in the Grand Anse area. They were represented by Programme Manager Dr. Sherry Constantine.

Also giving support to the project are Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs and Local Government Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester and Senior Agricultural Officer Benson Patrice.

A similar project is being done in Seychelles.

source: http://www.gov.gd/egov/news/2015/jul15/10_07_15/item_3/climate-change-project-launched-windward.html