Environmental conservation has taken center stage as a paramount approach to tackle climate change and global warming. In a strategic alliance with Oceanic Global, the Sandals Foundation has drawn local businesses in Salt Marsh, Jamaica into the fold to bolster marine conservation efforts.
The Blue Standard: A benchmark for sustainability
Through the rigorous evaluation of Oceanic Global’s Blue Standard, these businesses are ensured to have environmentally sound practices.
The initiative further educates business moguls about the significance of adopting all-encompassing sustainability measures to shield the local marine domains.
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Oceanic Global’s Blue Standard primarily aims to guide businesses in reducing or eradicating single-use plastics. This standard also enlightens them on enhancing waste management and integrating these practices sustainably into their business operations.
Furthermore, the Blue Standard encompasses seals for Product and Packaging to certify Consumer Packaged Goods that adhere to its plastic-free guidelines. The program also offers a systematic audit, consultation support, open-source resources, and collaborates with verified suppliers, ultimately assisting businesses in their sustainability journey.
Local businesses leading the charge
A quartet of small enterprises, namely Cuckoo’s Place, H& J Fitness, Crab Seafood Bar & Grill, and Monica’s Bar & Rest Stop, have benefited from the expertise of Oceanic Global. This engagement entailed personalized consultations and equipped them with tools to instill sustainability into their businesses.
Highlighting the tangible impacts of this initiative, Sasha-Kay Doman from Cuckoo’s Place mentioned their enhanced comprehension of environmental conservation, especially given their proximity to vital mangrove habitats. Their drive to contribute positively was evident even before the Oceanic Global training, with efforts like installing recycling cages by Recycling Partners of Jamaica.
Post-training, they have shifted towards promoting local produce and incorporating biodegradable materials, with plans to delve deeper into eco-friendly practices.
Georgia Scarlett, from the Sandals Foundation, accentuated the essence of equipping businesses with the knowledge to conserve and sustain their immediate environment, especially the mangroves.
Considering the geographical specificity of Caribbean islands and similar Small Island Developing States, the marine environment is integral to their existence.
The project not only illuminated the businesses about conservation practices and sustainable materials but also equipped them with recycling facilities to ensure continuity.
Robyn Young, affiliated with Oceanic Global, elaborated on the broader impact.
The critical role of Mangroves in Salt Marsh
Young shared that educating businesses and the wider Salt Marsh community about the vitality of mangroves has been a focal point. Mangroves, with their unique ability to sequester carbon from both air and water, play a pivotal role in the environment.
Moreover, Young noted that the training emphasizes the significance of recycling and curbing plastic litter, especially for a beachfront community, to maintain a balanced ecosystem and support the local populace.
These Salt Marsh businesses have now joined a global consortium, championing sustainable operations by minimizing single-use plastics, promoting local produce, and executing efficient waste management and recycling.
A global commitment with local impact
Reiterating their commitment, the Sandals Foundation continues its mission to shield the Caribbean’s awe-inspiring natural resources and ecosystems.
Their collaborative approach, partnering with entities like Oceanic Global, aims to magnify awareness, nurture the region’s biodiversity, curtail marine and terrestrial waste, and safeguard endangered species, ensuring the flourishing of both native and endemic species.
