Conservation Strategies for Preserving Natural Resources in The Bahamas
The Bahamas has faced indiscriminate extraction of limestone, sand, marine species (primarily lobster and conch), wood, and salt for many decades. Many Bahamian residents rely on these resources for their livelihoods, yet are often facing environmental risks associated with these practices, compounded by the increasing impacts of climate change and development. The current Minister of the Environment in The Bahamas is interested in ingraining the preservation of marine, fresh water, and other natural resources into governmental policy. This past summer, Miranda and Olivia worked to explore current policies in the country, conducted a thorough literature review, and developed a deep understanding of conservation tactics (grassroots and top-down) used around the world. All this was put together to develop a table of feasible conservation strategies, produce a comprehensive report, and create an educational pamphlet.
This project was accomplished in partnership with The Bahamas Natural Resources Foundation (BNRF), The Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association (BFFIA), Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), and the Community and College Partners Program (C2P2). The project would not have been possible without the support of the amazing donors that make this program a reality.
Olivia and Miranda’s Impact:
- Conducted a thorough literature review on extractive industries, conservation strategies, and environmental policies used in multiple countries.
- Produced a comprehensive report and a conservation strategies table analyzing environmental policies and providing recommendations for conservation strategies for the Minister of the Environment and other partners.
- Created an educational pamphlet on collective action for partners and community events in The Bahamas.
- Developed a strong understanding of the conservation challenges in small island developing states (SIDS) and the impacts of grassroots, community-led conservation.
- One team member traveled to The Bahamas to experience the beauty of Andros Island firsthand with community partners and interact with local council members.
