Promoting Economic Development in St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve through the New Earth Network Initiative

The St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve (SMBR) in St. Kitts and Nevis, a pioneering initiative in the English-speaking Caribbean, has been a focal point of UNESCO’s attention throughout 2024. Established in 2011 under the Man and Biosphere (MAB) program, the SMBR serves as a vital model for biodiversity conservation in small island developing states, demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of integrating human activities with environmental protection. UNESCO recognizes the SMBR’s contribution to safeguarding biodiversity within a fragile island ecosystem, highlighting its significance as a learning platform for other islands facing similar environmental challenges. This recent surge in attention is linked to the second phase of the Earth Network project, an initiative focused on strengthening sustainable agricultural practices within the reserve and its surrounding areas. Supported by UNESCO and the Ministry of Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, this project expands on the existing framework of the SMBR, aiming to synergistically amplify both biodiversity preservation and socio-economic benefits for the local community.

The Earth Network project facilitated the invaluable contribution of Dr. Haydi Berrenstein, a leading biodiversity expert from Suriname, who collaborated closely with the SMBR National Coordinator and the MAB committee. Dr. Berrenstein’s expertise has been pivotal in addressing critical challenges related to agricultural practices within the reserve. Her work encompassed a comprehensive review of existing cultivation methods and preservation techniques, focusing on the development of innovative and ecologically sound agricultural processes that leverage the rich biodiversity of the region. This involved meticulous analysis of specific challenges facing the reserve, such as soil erosion, water scarcity, and the impact of climate change, with the goal of devising tailored solutions that align with the unique ecological characteristics of St. Kitts and Nevis. The ultimate aim is to create a sustainable agricultural model that enhances both productivity and environmental sustainability.

The project’s long-term vision embodies a multifaceted approach encompassing several key initiatives. One of the cornerstones of this strategy is the establishment of a Neem processing plant to produce chemical-free fertilizers and pesticides. This initiative addresses the need for environmentally friendly agricultural inputs, reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals that can have detrimental effects on the ecosystem. Another crucial component is the creation of a seed bank dedicated to preserving heat and drought-resistant indigenous seeds. This safeguarding of local genetic resources is essential for building resilience against the impacts of climate change and preserving traditional crop varieties adapted to the specific conditions of St. Kitts and Nevis. Finally, the project envisions the construction of greenhouses to support reforestation efforts through the establishment of an indigenous plant nursery. This will contribute to the restoration of degraded areas, enhance carbon sequestration, and promote the conservation of native plant species.

Dr. Berrenstein’s engagement extended beyond providing technical expertise. Recognizing the importance of community involvement for the project’s long-term sustainability, she conducted extensive consultations with a diverse range of stakeholders, including farmers, business owners, students, government officials, academics, NGO representatives, and private sector actors. These consultations provided valuable insights into local perspectives, concerns, and aspirations, enabling Dr. Berrenstein to tailor the project’s social, economic, and community impact goals to resonate with the needs and priorities of the local population. This participatory approach fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that the project’s benefits are equitably distributed and contribute to the overall well-being of the community. Based on the feedback gathered during these consultations, Dr. Berrenstein is currently finalizing a funding proposal to secure international support for the implementation of these ambitious initiatives in 2025.

The establishment of a seed bank stands as a cornerstone of the project’s strategy to preserve agrobiodiversity. Recognizing the critical importance of seed security for sustainable agriculture and the preservation of native plant species, the seed bank will function as a repository of traditional varieties, safeguarding the genetic heritage of the region. This initiative will bolster the resilience of the local agricultural system against the threats of climate change, pests, and diseases, ensuring the long-term viability of food production in St. Kitts and Nevis. Complementing the seed bank, an agricultural nursery will be established to cultivate stable shrubs and native tropical trees, further supporting reforestation efforts within the SMBR. This combined approach will extend to fruit and vegetable cultivation, facilitating the propagation and eventual transplantation of seedlings and saplings throughout the reserve, enhancing biodiversity and providing a source of locally produced food.

The UNESCO National Commission Secretariat, led by Secretary General H.E. Nerys Dockery, organized a two-day consultation to foster dialogue and information sharing regarding the Earth Network project. The discussions emphasized the project’s alignment with the nation’s broader pursuit of becoming a Sustainable Island State. The SMBR plays a key role in this vision by leveraging its biodiversity assets for economic empowerment and community education in sustainable agricultural practices. The consultation provided a platform for stakeholders to contribute valuable feedback, ensuring that the project’s impact goals resonate with the communities served by the SMBR and lead to their empowerment. The project also benefited from the efforts of Ambassador David Doyle, the Federation’s permanent delegate to UNESCO in Paris, who played a crucial role in securing support, collaborating with UNESCO experts and the Italian Ambassador to UNESCO, Liborio Stellino, whose government provided funding for the initial phases. This international collaboration underscores the global significance of the SMBR as a model for sustainable development in small island nations.