April 23, 2024
The Bahamas Mangrove Alliance (BMA) proudly announces its affiliation with the Global Mangrove Alliance (GMA), marking a significant step forward in preserving and restoring mangrove ecosystems in The Bahamas. Additionally, the BMA is delighted to welcome two esteemed organizations, Friends of the Environment and Cape Eleuthera Institute at The Island School, into its fold, further fortifying its commitment to mangrove conservation efforts.
Founded on Earth Day 2023 by Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS), and Waterkeepers Bahamas (WKB), the BMA stands dedicated to championing mangrove conservation and restoration across The Bahamas. Mangrove forests are vital ecosystems, serving as natural buffers against coastal erosion, providing habitats for diverse marine life, and playing a pivotal role in carbon sequestration.
The Global Mangrove Alliance (GMA), established at the World Ocean Summit in 2018, fosters collaboration among NGOs, governments, scientists, industry, local communities, and funders to conserve and restore mangrove ecosystems worldwide. Including the BMA in the GMA signifies a united effort toward achieving this ambitious objective.
Jim McDuffie, President of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, expressed his enthusiasm: “The Bahamas Mangrove Alliance is pleased to join the community of organizations and other partners working to restore and conserve mangroves around the world. Our participation in the Global Mangrove Alliance is pivotal in amplifying our collective impact on mangrove conservation efforts. Together, we can leverage our resources, expertise, and networks to safeguard these critical ecosystems for future generations.”
Dr. Craig Dahlgren, Executive Director of the Perry Institute for Marine Science, added, “The partnership between the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance and the Global Mangrove Alliance signifies a powerful commitment to preserving and restoring mangrove ecosystems. This collaboration will undoubtedly enhance our ability to address the multifaceted challenges facing mangroves and foster sustainable solutions.”
Welcoming the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance into the Global Mangrove Alliance, Emily Landis, Climate & Ocean Director at The Nature Conservancy and a member of the GMA Steering Committee, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance into our global network as our newest National Chapter.
Their dedication to mangrove conservation aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are excited to collaborate with them to drive meaningful change.”
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Rashema Ingraham, Executive Director of Waterkeepers Bahamas, remarked, “The inclusion of Friends of the Environment and Cape Eleuthera further underscores the collaborative nature of the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance. By uniting diverse organizations and stakeholders under a common goal, we can address the complex challenges facing mangrove habitats and work towards sustainable solutions. We look forward to working closely with our new members to advance our shared mission.”
The Cape Eleuthera Institute at The Island School is proud to join forces with the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance and the Global Mangrove Alliance in the fight for mangrove conservation”, said Dr. Nicholas Higgs Director of Research and Innovation. “As we face the urgent challenges of our time, including climate change, preserving mangrove ecosystems is paramount. Together, we stand committed to protecting these vital habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for our planet and all who call it home.”
“We are happy to join forces with the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance in their vital mission to conserve and restore mangrove ecosystems. With our ongoing mangrove outreach programs, it was a natural partnership to make,” said Friends of the Environment Executive Director Olivia Patterson-Maura. “Mangroves are integral to the health of our coastal environment, and through collaboration with BMA and its partners, we are confident in our ability to make a meaningful difference in protecting these essential habitats.”
BMA mangrove restoration and community engagement activities are made possible with support from the Global Environment Facility, Small Grants Program, The Nature Conservancy, Builders Initiative and other funding partners.
For information about joining or supporting BMA initiatives, please contact bahamas@bonefishtarpontrust.org.