41.5 million euros for nature on BES islands

In 2027, the Dutch government will continue its efforts to strengthen and restore the unique natural environment and ecosystems in the Ca­ribbean Netherlands. A to­tal of 47.5 million euros has been made available for this purpose. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature LVVN announced this on Budget Day (“Prinsjesdag”).

According to a release, the natural environment of Bo­naire, St. Eustatius and Saba is unique and indispensable, “for the people who live there, for the economy and tourism, but also for pro­tecting the islands against the effects of, for instance, climate change.”

“As the natural environ­ment on the so-called BES islands is under pressure, the national government will continue its efforts in 2027 to strengthen and re­store the unique natural en­vironment and ecosystems. With an additional 40 mil­lion euros, bringing the total to 47.5 million for the sec­ond phase of the Nature and Environment Policy Plan for the Caribbean Netherlands, an important next step is be­ing taken in collaboration with the islands.” added the statement.

Work is being carried out in collaboration with the is­lands on measures such as the restoration of vegeta­tion and coral, combating erosion and overgrazing, and reducing invasive spe­cies and water pollution. Consideration is also being given to how nature conser­vation and monitoring can be further improved.

The aim is to create a natu­ral environment that is more resilient to climate change whilst also contributing to a healthy living environment and economy on the islands.

The Daily Herald.