Coastal Protection at Point Sables Environmental Protected Area (PSEPA), Saint Lucia

Snapshot Solution

by Ulrike Krauss, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

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SLNT

The PSEPA features unique biodiversity, as well as captivating sea- and landscapes. It has been over-exploited by users with contrasting interests, resulting in conflict, beach compaction, coastal de-vegetation, erosion and sedimentation of drains and the barrier reef. The Saint Lucia National Trust uses a multipronged approach with building blocks, such as continuous stakeholder engagement and scientific support to address these issues. Interventions to stabilize and enhance the PSEPA include:

Integrated management and re-vegetation of coastline, sand dunesand mangroves
Exclusion of vehicles from beach
Clearance and rehabilitation of storm drains
Improved waste management
Cultivation of partnerships with users, private and public stakeholders to nurture broad-based buy-in, encourage voluntary compliance, and to enhance livelihood opportunities based on natural resources
Development of a participatory Recreational Use Plan for Sandy Beach
Public awareness and education campaign

Last update: 18 Oct 2024

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Context

Challenges addressed

Conflicting uses / cumulative impacts

Ecosystem loss

Physical resource extraction

Lack of public and decision maker’s awareness

Poor monitoring and enforcement

Poor governance and participation

Scale of implementation

Local

Subnational

Ecosystems

Coastal forest

Theme

Ecosystem services

Restoration

Geodiversity and Geoconservation

Local actors

Location

Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia

Caribbean

Impacts

The interventions aim for a more sustainable enjoyment of the PSEPA by all users. The ecosystem services provided by coastal agro-forests, beach and coral reefs will be safeguarded, so that they can continue to support native flora and fauna, associated livelihoods, as well as build resilience against adverse climatic events.

Specifically, the rehabilitation of storm drains already lead to more effective drainage after heavy rains, thereby preventing further water erosion. The on-going re-vegetation of sand dunes and coastal afforestation will further prevent wind erosion and counteract the impact of illegal sand-mining. Pillars are now preventing vehicular traffic on beach, thereby counteracting compaction and preserving the site´s aesthetics. Sand-mining is no longer observed and there are signs of plant and dune regeneration. Littering was visibly reduced by erection of garbage bins and improved collection routines.

Continuous public education and awareness-raising has already reached over 1,500 people directly, plus many more via social media, thus helping to improve users´ behaviour and to build pride among potential stewards. The Saint Lucia National Trust is continuously seeking out funding opportunities from various sources to develop integrated solutions that build upon each other.