Internationa Day of Biological Diversity - Get in the plan
The Caribbean is slated to be an ecosystem marker for impacts due to climate change. I recall being given the challenge of developing the curriculum for the Environmental Science major in the Department of Natural Sciences at the Barbados Community College and feeling accomplished by including contemporary teaching objectives, and then having the opportunity to interact with our first cohort. Many of these students, also being inspired by the guidance of main Lecturer Mr. Leroi Coppin, chose to pursue advanced degrees in the field and are playing active roles in environmental management on island and in the Caribbean.
We never anticipated that in two decades we would be experiencing the climate change impacts that were considered mainly theoretical at the time. Higher than average temperatures, periods of drought, more severe weather systems, coral bleaching, biodiversity loss, reduced agricultural production and the need to shift to sustainable methods, were all stressed in the learning objectives. Education is key for survival and the continuum, and it was important that the Associate Degree Programme prepared the young scientists for future study.
So, we were in the plan then, but how do we respond to the challenges in the immediate? Biodiversity loss is of great significance, but it seems that it is not as concerning a topic, being undersubscribed in regional conversations. Diversity in plant resources is essential for rebounding from impacts on the resource, for food security and health, where traditional healing methods are still practiced. The Caribbean has a high level of endemism within the plant species in the hotspot with Cuba registering around 50% relative to the Caribbean estimated 72%. How many of us know these species? How much research is being conducted on these species which are unique to the region and offer opportunities for the discovery of new foods and health products? Are we getting into the plan?
How many of these species do you know? There are 11,000 plant species identified in the Caribbean with just over 7000 being endemic/unique to the region. Where are the new fruits, new spices, new supplements, new soups, new cereals........Let's Get In The PLAN for conservation and sustainable utilization of this resource!
The image is Solanum torvum or Turkey berry, related to potatoes and tomatoes in the Solonaceae family. It has medicinal value, and the fruits can be used to prepare tasty side dishes. Knowing the biocultural tradition is however important before use.
