Vaughn Turland, ContributorPRESERVING THE environment of our planet is easier perhaps and more cost effective than trying to restore it once it has been destroyed. It is a global issue as evidenced in some respects by the recent signing of the Kyoto agreement by many of the world's nations. But, global warming apart, species of flora and fauna are becoming extinct every day. Not important? Trust me, it really does matter!
Everywhere, we can see bad examples of environmental husbandry. For example, it was recently reported that 90 per cent of all wetlands in California are now gone. So badly polluted and lacking in oxygen is their Salton Sea all that is left of the Pacific flyway bird migration route that it can barely support fish life. Again in California, heavy rains are today, washing houses off the hillsides. In Haiti, human disaster follows ecological disaster as a result of wanton destruction of the forests. Yet, there are countries such as Costa Rica which have whole heartedly embraced eco-tourism and thus the environment, making it pivotal in their thrust for market share.
Which example should we in Jamaica seek to emulate? Which course are we actually following? In many ways, it seems that we are on the slippery slope to total annihilation of the natural environment. Just look around you. The evidence of your own eyes will tell you.
So, how important is the environment to our country. Why do visitors come to Jamaica? Is it to see our deforested mountains and hillsides? Is it to see the results of uncontrolled slash and burn which destroys not only the long-term viability of the soil but dwindling habitats such as broad leaf woodland and important species alike?
These last few weeks of drought have revealed the full extent of the damage to our countryside. There is hardly a tract of land which is not hopelessly disfigured by indiscriminate burning driven by total ignorance and lack of concern. Is this what tourists come to see? No, of course not! Is this what Jamaicans want to live with? No, of course not!
SUSTAINABILITY IS KEY
As a boy growing up in England, my first images of Jamaica were from postage stamps of the 1930s to the 1960s. Lush tropical paradise, beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, boats and seines on the morning tide. There, I guess the resemblance to modern-day Jamaica ends. Today, the fish seine mesh is too small, the fish have gone; the reefs are destroyed by dynamite and pollution; the wetlands are disappearing under the weight of development and effluent. Believe me, Jamaica's reputation as an idyllic paradise is under real threat. It may already be too late.
So, what is at stake? On one hand, we are promoting Jamaica being 'more than a beach'. On the other, we are destroying the very things that people come to see. Imagine, the wonders of the Cockpit Country with its globally unique flora and fauna scarred by bauxite mining or large hotel development. Just think of oil refineries in the middle of the developing south-coast tourism industry. Sustain-ability is a key word in environmental matters taking the long-term view is what it is all about. The 'through life cost benefit' of a beautiful environment will far outweigh the minimal gain from a production cycle lasting for two or three decades. Let the accountants crunch the numbers before the debit side of the balance sheet becomes another unwieldy financial burden. Once the tourists stop coming, it will be difficult to persuade them to come back.
ENOUGH TOOTHLESS LAWS
But, Jamaica is not for the tourists alone. It is for Jamaicans rich or poor alike. In most towns and villages, there is sound evidence that some people do care. They plant flowers, paint houses, keep yards tidy just like people all around the world.
So how can that care be extended to the wider community? There is the challenge. Laws will not do it. There are enough toothless laws already that cannot be enforced. The environment is a platform that matters. It can bring real benefit to society. Everything matters in nature. Whatever way you look at it, everything in nature is intrinsically linked ridge to reef, plankton to whale. It is a delicate balance affecting not just flora and fauna but every person as well.
Stop the burning, control fishing even if it is by banning the import of small mesh pots and nets as a starting point. Control the profligate use of non-biodegradable packaging. Less material means less waste. Review opportunities for extension and increase of national and marine conservation areas. How, for example, can the Black River Lower Morass be a protected area while the Upper Morass is not? Does not one flow into the other? Stop the destruction of mangrove it may be the only barrier between your community and a tsunami at some point in the future. Most of all, educate the people to care.
As with crime, there is no quick fix - it is along hard battle. But, it is well worth the positive impact on Jamaica's balance sheet and the quality of life for those who live here and call Jamaica home!
