Grenada has been nominated to host a dedicated Sargassum Conference in September, aimed at bringing together key stakeholders to explore innovative solutions and business opportunities related to sargassum management.
This conference will bring together experts, policymakers, business leaders, and environmentalists to discuss and develop sustainable solutions for sargassum management. It will also explore various business opportunities that sargassum presents, including its potential use in agriculture, biofuel, and other innovative industries.
The Caribbean Island was selected following a meeting with incoming CARICOM Chairman, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, head of Grenada’s delegation at the SIDS4 Conference in Antigua & Barbuda, alongside representatives from the European Union (EU) and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
The discussions focused on collaborative strategies to manage and mitigate the impact of sargassum seaweed on coastal ecosystems, the tourism industry, and local communities.
The meeting highlighted the importance of a united regional approach to tackle the sargassum issue. The EU and OECS reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Caribbean nations through technical assistance, funding, and expertise sharing.
The EU has pledged increased technical support and funding to aid in the development of sargassum management technologies and practices. This support will be instrumental in enhancing the region’s capacity to effectively respond to recurrent sargassum influxes.
The discussions also emphasized the dual benefit of sargassum management strategies that not only protect the marine and coastal environment, but also unlock economic opportunities.
Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are honoured to be chosen as the host for the upcoming Sargassum Conference. This is a critical issue that affects not just Grenada, but the entire Caribbean region. By working together with our international partners, we can find innovative solutions that protect our environment and create new economic opportunities for our people.”
EU Director of International Partnerships Felix Fernandez-Shaw added, “The EU is committed to supporting the Caribbean in its efforts to combat the sargassum challenge. We believe that through collaboration and innovation, we can turn this environmental issue into an opportunity for sustainable development.”
OECS Director General, Dr Didacus Jules, highlighted, “This meeting marks a significant step forward in our regional efforts to address the sargassum problem. Grenada’s leadership in hosting the conference will be pivotal in driving forward our collective goals.”
Minister for Climate Resilience, the Environment and Renewable Energy Kerryne James will lead the preparation efforts for the Sargassum Conference.
