Royal Gazette: Scores wade in to support BNT over Marine Spatial Plan
The creation of protected marine areas for local waters is supported by an open letter formally submitted to the Government by the Bermuda National Trust and backed by more than 60 organisations.
It came with an urgent call for the implementation of the Bermuda Ocean Prosperity Programme’s Marine Spatial Plan and for a proposed Marine Development Act supporting the conservation to be brought into force.
The letter was handed to Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, along with Kirk Outerbridge, the ministry’s permanent secretary, on Tuesday.
Signatures in support came from research authorities, hotels, dive operators, tourism businesses, marine service providers, environmental organisations, recreational groups, charities and businesses.
They include the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, whose chief executive and president, Craig Carlson, has stated on the organisation’s website that “marine spatial planning, including marine-protected areas and sustainable management, are successful in supporting positive outcomes for coastal and island communities’ ecosystems and economies”.
Other supporters include the Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute and the Bermuda Audubon Society.
Bios is one of the three original signatories to BOPP along with the Waitt Institute and the Bermuda Government.
Myles Darrell, the BNT’s head of natural heritage, said: “Together, they share the belief that a strong and effective MSP will help protect and sustain Bermuda’s environmental, economic and social future.
“The extent of support demonstrates a growing consensus that the surrounding ocean is one of Bermuda’s greatest natural assets and that its long-term protection is essential to the island’s prosperity.
“Healthy coral reefs, seagrass beds, fisheries and marine ecosystems support tourism, recreation, coastal protection, biodiversity and the quality of life enjoyed by all residents and visitors.
“Co-ordinated by BNT, this coalition of MSP supporters believes it is essential to act now.
“Support for the MSP is grounded in both local experience and international scientific evidence.”
Royal Gazette: Scores wade in to support BNT over Marine Spatial Plan