In 2012, while Caribbean athletes like Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce were making history at the London Olympics, the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF) was quietly making strides of its own. Launched that same year, the CBF set its sights on a different goal—preserving and protecting the Caribbean’s natural capital for future generations.
Established to serve as a regional financial mechanism designed to support conservation projects across the region, the CBF has since channeled US$34 million into initiatives that safeguard marine life, restore forests, and promote sustainable tourism, reflecting a commitment to preserving the Caribbean’s natural capital.
Today, the CBF partners with 10 National Conservation Trust Funds (NCTFs) across the Caribbean, channeling interest earned from a USD 100 million endowment fund to support projects that yield tangible results. These partnerships have fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility towards nature. Outreach programs and educational campaigns, enabled by the CBF and implemented by the NCTFs, have shifted public perception on the importance of environmental stewardship.
Schools across the Caribbean have integrated conservation topics into their curricula, inspiring a new generation of eco-conscious citizens and planting the seeds for long-term environmental sustainability. 2024 marked the five-year anniversary for three of these country partnerships, and we celebrate the signing of new Agreements to kick off this new year.
The Grenada Sustainable Development Trust Fund (GSDTF)
In Grenada, the GSDTF, backed by the CBF, has delivered six key projects. These aim to protect habitats, enhance livelihoods, promote sustainable farming, boost eco-tourism, and support small renewable energy efforts. They also focus on managing coastal areas and adapting to climate change.
Notable examples include the Biophysical Assessment of Marine Protected Areas and their management arrangements, the Morne Gazo Nature Reserve Project, the Caribbean Vocational Qualifications Capacity Enhancement initiative, and the Biodiversity 101 magazine.
The National Conservation Trust Fund of Jamaica (NCTFJ)
In Jamaica, the NCTFJ demonstrates its conservation commitment through various projects including mangrove and coastal restoration, sustainable tourism, and environmental education.
With the support of the CBF, the NCTFJ has:
- Trained over 230 community members in conservation
- Planted 650 mangrove seedlings
- Out-planted 4,500 corals
- Benefited 13 communities island-wide
This work enhances the protection and sustainable use of Jamaica’s natural resources, securing them for future generations.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Conservation Foundation (SVGCF)
In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the SVGCF has launched 15 projects with CBF funding. These initiatives tackle ecological issues such as beach and coral reef restoration and soil regeneration in agriculture.
A highlight is the Farmland Restoration Project in North Leeward, which uses Vetiver Systems Technology—an ancient, nature-based method. By planting Vetiver grass, the project enhances soil and water conservation, stabilizes infrastructure, controls pollution, treats wastewater, and reduces storm damage.
The initiative has revitalized farmland, trained 34 farmers, established 3 Vetiver nurseries, and built multiple installations. It showcases how traditional techniques can address modern environmental challenges.
All three partnerships share a common goal: to protect the Caribbean’s biodiversity and empower local communities. They demonstrate the CBF and its partners’ commitment to delivering real, lasting benefits for future generations.
While Caribbean athletes continue to set world records, the race to protect our land, seas, communities, and livelihoods remains just as vital. The CBF is proud to extend its agreements with these partners for another five years.
For more information, visit: caribbeanbiodiversityfund.org
