Basseterre: St. Kitts, Thursday, September 11, 2025: The St. Kitts and Nevis National Commission for UNESCO, in partnership with the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment hosted a workshop under the theme: Towards a Zero Plastic St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve on Wednesday, September 10 at Windsor University Conference Room.
The workshop provided an opportunity for participants to dialogue on the impact, and challenges since the Federal adoption of the 2025 Plastic Waste Reduction Bill as well as the way forward in achieving its main objectives.
H.E. Nerys Dockery, Secretary General of the National Commission for UNESCO gave remarks.
“It is my pleasure to welcome you to this critical workshop which is convened under the theme Towards a Zero Plastic St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve. As we gather here today, we are not only representing our commitment to environmental conservation but also acknowledging the urgent need to address the global challenge of plastic pollution. The St. Mary’s Biosphere reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 is a testament to our nation’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of our island.”
Special Advisor on The Sustainable Island Stata Agenda (SISA) Mrs. Sharon Rhattan represented the Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, Dr. Joyelle Clarke.
“I delightfully greet you with a distinct sense of purpose and direction as we gather in this forum to share knowledge, and discuss critical initiatives for our Nation’s sustainability, adaptive capacity and resilience building. Today’s focus on the phased single-use plastic ban its challenges and solutions bring into sharp focus our environmental stewardship.”
Mrs. Telca Daniel Wallace, Coordinator of the National Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Committee, communicated the vision and mission of the St. Mary’s Biosphere Reserve (SMBR) and in what ways plastic pollution is impacting the Reserve.
Presenting on the Zero Plastic Biosphere Reserve of the Principe Island Biosphere Reserve, Prof. Miguel Clussener-Godt, Senior Research Associate at the UNESCO Chair on Biodiversity Safeguard for Sustainable Development, Life Sciences Department, University of Columbia, demonstrated and shared best practices on how the small islands São Tomé and Príncipe were able to achieve its goal of becoming a plastic-free zone.
Presentations were also made by representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Taiwan Technical Mission, the St. Kitts and Nevis Excise Department, the Ministry of Tourism Nevis and entrepreneurs from within the area.
