Building a Zero Waste Ecosystem for Enhanced Biodiversity for Birds and People at Belmont Salt Pond

The intervention focused on the reduction of solid waste and ecologically harmful activities within the Belmont Salt Pond, a highly sensitive coastal wetland located on Union Island, it is a key site for traditional, local hand-picking of salt during the dry season, notes crucial for native birdlife and nature-based tourism. The project addressed the severe, visible threats of illegal garbage accumulation and unauthorized charcoal production, both of which were actively degrading the wetland’s water quality and habitat integrity. The Belmont Salt Pond area is significant, in that it provides habitat to many species of resident and migratory birds. Here you can see Whimbrels, Willets, Blue-winged Teal, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Mangrove Cuckoo, and even the American Flamingo on occasion. Migratory birds use Belmont as a place to rest and feed. For other birds, the Salt Pond is ‘home’ all year round.