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EMA Focuses on Economic Value of Biodiversity Print

2010 has been declared the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) by the United Nations. It is the occasion on which the diversity of life on Earth, including every plant, animal and micro-organism, is being observed.


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The slogan for year-long activities is:
"Biodiversity is life. Biodiversity is our life!"
In Trinidad and Tobago, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) will be engaged in activities to draw the connection between biodiversity and economic development.


The EMA's strategy over the coming 12 months will be to impress upon the national community the vital link between the promotion of sustainable development and the maintenance of the country's unique biodiversity.


These activities are in support of the country's obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity to promote the conservation of biological diversity, encourage the sustainable use of its components and encourage the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilisation of genetic resources.


To celebrate the occasion and raise public awareness of biodiversity's contribution to sustainable development, the EMA has launched an IYB-themed calendar and diary. As part of a collaborative effort all photos displayed in the calendar were taken by EMA's staff.


The 12 themes promoted from January to December are Species Diversity; Cultural Diversity and Sustainable Livelihoods; Agricultural Diversity; the Protection of Rivers & Beaches; Threatened Species; Invasive Alien Species; Coastal & Marine Habitats; Eco-Tourism; Terrestrial Biodiversity; Mountains; Horticultural Biodiversity and Protected Areas.


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Each month of the calendar will be available for free download from the first day of each month from the EMA's website at: www.ema.co.tt


The images and information shared, offer an opportunity to learn more about the rich tapestry of life that exists in Trinidad & Tobago and to discover the importance of having healthy eco-systems.


The EMA plays a key role in maintaining island biodiversity and ensuring sustainable development through the designation of Environmentally Sensitive Species and Areas (ESSAs); the coordination and facilitation of capacity building with stakeholders; commissioning of research studies and management planning; and enhancing public education and awareness.


DID YOU KNOW?


  • The Government of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on August 1, 1996, and as Party to the CBD Trinidad & Tobago will observe IYB in 2010.

  • In April 2002, the Parties to the Convention committed themselves to the 2010 target to achieve a significant reduction of the current rate of biodiversity loss at the global, regional and national level as a contribution to poverty alleviation and to the benefit of all life on Earth.

  • Biodiversity is the term used to describe the variety of life on Earth. It includes every plant and animal as well as micro-organisms such as bacteria and viruses. Scientists have identified less than 2 million species so far but estimate there could be at least 13 million species in total.

  • There are hundreds of ways you can appreciate and help conserve biodiversity, from learning about your local wildlife or encouraging birds, frogs and butterflies into your garden, to taking part in a national wildlife project or giving a donation to a conservation charity.

    • For more information on the International Year of Biodiversity you can visit the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) website dedicated to IYB 2010 at http://www.cbd.int/2010


    © EMA – January 11th  2009


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