Celebrating World Wetlands Day with UNEP Sub-Regional Office and UNEP Cartagena Convention Secretariat in Jamaica

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Sub-Regional Office, under the under the EU funded project in collaboration with CARIFORUM “Zero Waste in the Caribbean: News Ways, New Waves” and the UNEP Cartagena Convention Secretariat, participated in the celebration of World Wetlands Day in Jamaica, reaffirming commitment to supporting environmental conservation. Held on February 2, 2024, at the Mason River Protected Area (MRPA) in Clarendon, the event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and promote their conservation.

Wetlands, often described as ecosystems where water plays a crucial role in shaping the environment and supporting diverse plant and animal life, are essential for both human and ecological well-being. They encompass a wide range of habitats, including freshwater and marine ecosystems, such as lakes, rivers, marshes, mangroves, and coral reefs. Despite covering only 6 percent of the Earth's land surface, wetlands host 40 percent of all plant and animal species, highlighting their significance in global biodiversity.

The celebration, organised by the Natural History Museum of Jamaica (NHMJ) in partnership with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), attracted a diverse audience of 275 participants, including representatives from 17 schools and five exhibitors, featuring the Urban Development Corporation, Forestry Department, and the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation (CCAMF).

The Mason River Protected Area, recognised as a Ramsar Site of International Importance since December 2011, served as a fitting venue for the event. Participants engaged in various activities, including wetland presentations, guided tours of the MRPA, and interactive exhibits hosted by the participating organisations.

UNEP's involvement underscored the organisation's dedication to promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship. By joining forces with local partners and stakeholders, UNEP reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and conserving wetlands, which play a critical role in providing essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, flood control, and biodiversity conservation.