BREEF held its annual Eco-Schools Bahamas (ESB) Workshop on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the New Providence Community Centre. Over 60 educators from Abaco, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, Cat Island and New Providence attended the workshop. 

Presenters throughout the day underscored the importance of empowering students to be advocates for sustainability in their schools and communities. Teachers were given the tools and information to start their journey to becoming Green Flag schools. They also participated in lively activities to integrate environmental education into their curriculum while empowering students to lead their respective clubs. 

Aquinas College Eco-Schools Coordinator, Raymond Knight gave a presentation on Renewable Energy & Carbon Emissions demonstrating how to calculate consumption costs. He expressed that through these calculations institutions can gauge their energy usage and determine where they can cut back to lighten the load on their schools. Knight also made a case for utilising more renewable forms of energy on campuses.

“When we talk about energy consumption, sometimes we ignore the small, small bits but they do add up.” Knight said.

Following Knight’s presentation was another given by his former pupil, and representative from the Office of the Prime Minister’s Climate Change & Environmental Advisory Unit, Melissa Ingraham. Ingram, standing as a testament of a student influenced by an environmental educator, said she was excited and honoured to reunite with her former teacher at the event.

“It was a full-circle moment where I reunited with this teacher who taught me science. I am now giving a presentation back to him, as an adult and professional, that was an honour” she said.  

During her presentation, the Education Officer for Social Studies Junior High at the Ministry of Education and Eco-Schools Bahamas Assessor, Sally Johnson, expressed excitement, having three government junior high schools attending the event. She said that as more government junior high schools register for the Eco-Schools Programme she will continue to support them and others who wish to participate.  

“This programme and partnership with BREEF ties into our National Development Plan and when you look at the government’s Blueprint for Change they are focusing on more of the environment. Being a part of this, we will help our teachers to help our students have better knowledge of our country’s environment,” Johnson said.

St. John’s College (SJC) is known for its active Eco-Club, with students regularly participating in various BREEF activities and programs. SJC Eco-Schools Coordinator, Kendia Ingraham, said that they plan to maintain the momentum with their club taking full advantage of the networking opportunities provided by the workshop.

“We are so happy to be here, especially to exchange ideas and experiences with the other Eco-Schools Coordinators. It was great to collaborate so that we can strengthen the Eco-Clubs in all of our schools,” Ingraham explained.

Several family islands schools were also represented at the workshop. Harbour Island Green School Eco-School Coordinator, Walcott Miller said that he hopes to better empower his students and other teachers on the island with the knowledge he gains from the workshop.

“We believe that our students need to be empowered environmental citizens, understanding that every decision they make has an impact on the environment.” 

Miller is no stranger to BREEF or the Eco School programme, having been a former Bahamas Environmental Steward Scholar, a programme that BREEF runs with the Cape Eleuthera Island School. 
Miller continued, “Coming out of this workshop we can teach our teachers what to improve on, and build on the steps that we have already taken. We have implemented recycling, sorting our trash and banning single use plastic, but we want to keep improving.”

A.F. Adderley Junior High Eco-School Coordinator Elvis Sweeting said, “One of my biggest takeaways from this event is the urgency to implement an eco-schools programme and tips to reduce our carbon footprint.”

D.W. Davis Junior High Eco-School Coordinator Natasha Astwood explained that she felt encouraged by the testimonials from other schools who persevered through the challenges on their Eco-School journey.

“This workshop was a 10 on a scale of 1-10. I am excited about the prospect of collaboration with other schools, especially those on the family islands. This is one of the best workshops I have attended.” Astwood said.

BREEF Eco-Schools National Operator, Nicola Fernander explained that this year, the Eco-Schools Bahamas workshop focused on networking and equipping new and registered schools with pertinent information that will assist them in achieving the prestigious, internationally recognised green flag award. Teachers shared, learned and developed strategies to engage students in fun-filled actions to protect our Bahamian Ecosystems.

“I am excited about the next steps we will take as a network of eco-educators, supporting each other and improving the environmental footprint of our schools and community. I am truly thankful to the many new coordinators and schools from the Family Islands and New Providence who participated in this year’s event,” Fernander said.

Eco-Schools Bahamas is part of a global sustainable school programme active in over 79 countries.  BREEF’s ESB network spreads over six islands with 19 government and 27 private schools. The workshop allows educators to network, share experiences, and gain valuable information to inspire students toward positive actions to adapt to and combat climate change through their respective programmes. BREEF has been running the Eco-Schools Bahamas programme since 2009.

The workshop was made possible through the generous support of the Primat Foundation and Builders Initiative. To learn more about BREEF’s Eco-Schools Bahamas Programme and its work in promoting the conservation of the Bahamian marine environment, please visit www.breef.org or email ecoschoolsbahamas@breef.org. 

Nassau, Bahamas – It has been a year and eight months since a barge became stranded on a coral reef off Saunders Beach in New Providence, causing significant and ongoing damage, and risking the lives and livelihoods of people onshore. Despite repeated calls for its removal, the large pieces of the vessel remain on the reef, no longer visible from shore but clearly seen from above. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. A tug and barge  have been grounded on a coral reef within Fowl Cay  National Park in Abaco since March —nearly six months ago—with no removal efforts in sight.

The reef affected by the grounded vessel in New Providence plays a crucial role in protecting the Saunders Beach and Goodman’s Bay coastal areas from direct wave energy and storm surges. The abandoned barge, grounded near Go-Slow Bend since December 2022, has already caused severe damage, gouging a trench into the reef and pulverising coral in its path. This ongoing destruction increases the vulnerability of our coastlines to flooding and storm impacts.

BREEF Executive Director Casuarina McKinney-Lambert explains that the impact of this grounded barge has been severe damage to the environment’s natural breakwaters by damaging the reef structure that can dissipate  wave energy by up to 95%.

“The coral reefs along the north shore of New Providence play a critical role in protecting lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure from storm surges and hurricanes. Any damage, especially physical destruction of this magnitude, directly increases flooding and storm impacts on the shoreline behind it,” McKinney-Lambert said.

Over the years, increased flooding events on Bay Street, particularly in the Saunders Beach area, have brought surge, sand, debris, and flooding into local communities, disrupting lives, homes, and businesses. Residents have endured flooding from storms, which have left coastal roadways littered with debris. Abandoned vessels like this one, that contribute to the continued destruction of the barrier reef, are making this problem worse.

In Abaco, locals  have been advocating for the removal of the two grounded vessels left on the reef for nearly six months. Despite these efforts, no action has been taken, and the vessels continue to cause harm to the marine environment.

BREEF stands with the local community, fellow NGOs, and environmental advocates in calling for the immediate removal of the vessels in Abaco, New Providence, and other grounded ships around the archipelago. Coral reefs are our natural breakwaters, providing essential protection against the increasing intensity of hurricanes and storm surges. As we are in the midst of hurricane season, the urgency of removing these vessels cannot be overstated.

For more information or to support our efforts, please visit breef.org.

Nassau, Bahamas – BREEF hosted a special snorkel adventure in the waters off Clifton Heritage National Park to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Coral Reef Sculpture Garden & Coral Nursery. What was meant to be a joyous occasion took an unexpected turn when snorkelers encountered oil in the water, suspected to have come from the nearby Clifton power plant.

This incident underscores the severe impact oil spills can have on our oceans. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect our marine environments from pollution and ensure the safety of our precious ecosystems.

BREEF is committed to raising awareness about critical threats and taking action to prevent further damage to our oceans. Despite the unforeseen challenge, the press snorkel event highlighted the importance of continued vigilance and advocacy for marine conservation.

Jervon Sands, Bahamas Youth Climate Ambassador at the Office of the Prime Minister penned an article about his experience swimming through the oil spill called, Pressing Threats to Our Marine Environment Should Inspire Us to Act.

Antonia Ferguson (Mermaid Antonia) also highlighted her experience with the oil here.

Ban Oil Drilling in The Bahamas

In response to the most recent oil spill, Our Islands, Our Future (OIOF), a coalition of over 150 businesses, environmental groups, tourism advocates, and other Bahamian and international leaders, reiterated their strong opposition to Challenger Energy Group’s suggestion that the Bahamian government may renew offshore drilling licences that expired over three years ago. BREEF and Waterkeepers are steering committee members of the OIOF coalition. The coalition emphasises that the government’s previous decision to halt consideration of these renewals sends a clear message: The Bahamas is shifting away from fossil fuels and embracing a sustainable energy future.

Public Support for a Permanent Ban on Oil Drilling

Earlier this year, OIOF commissioned a nationwide poll revealing overwhelming public support for a permanent ban on oil drilling in Bahamian waters. The extensive survey showed that 86% of respondents support legislative action to prevent further fossil fuel exploration, with 74% advocating for a transition to renewable energy.

“The Bahamian people have spoken loud and clear. They want to protect our pristine waters and vibrant marine life, which are the lifeblood of our tourism and fishing industries,” said Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, Executive Director of BREEF. “The path forward for The Bahamas is not through fossil fuels but through sustainable energy solutions. The oil spills in the waters off Clifton underscores the need to clean up the existing sources of marine pollution and transition to a renewable future.”

Nassau, Bahamas – Under the theme “Marine Explorers,” the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) held another successful summer of fun and informative sea camps. This year our sea camps were held on the islands of Nassau, Eleuthera and Andros. BREEF’s annual Sea Camps provide empowering, educational, and fun experiences that use the natural environment as a tool to teach campers about the importance of protecting our oceans and their resources. Campers learned about the impacts of warming waters caused by climate change on fragile coral reefs ecosystems. 

Nassau Sea Camp, held at Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre in New Providence, engaged 30 children with a week of hands-on activities fostering a deep connection with the ocean and our marine environment. A highlight of the Nassau Sea Camp was a snorkel in Bonefish Pond and a presentation from Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. All the camp activities  highlighted the importance of marine conservation and the role these young stewards can play in protecting their national heritage.

According to Henry McWilliam, age 8, “I enjoyed snorkelling, and learning about bonefish. It was great to see them up close.”

Jonathan Pierre, age 12, said: “What I enjoyed most from camp was snorkelling, making friends, and doing arts and crafts.”

Ava Williamson, age 13, shared her thoughts: “I learned a lot on the snorkels and I also enjoyed answering questions during trivia.”

BREEF’s  second Sea Camp of the season was held in Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera at the Haynes Library. Eleuthera Sea Campers enjoyed daily snorkelling excursions and learned about the significance of key fisheries such as the Queen Conch. Campers were taught how to correctly measure the thickness of a conch lip; during one of their snorkelling trips, they discovered a pile of conch shells near a local conch stand and identified several shells that did not meet fisheries regulations but had still been harvested.

In their reflections many of the campers noted that they would like to continue learning more about the importance of preserving the marine environment.

“I liked playing the trivia games, snorkelling and I want to be able to identify more marine species in the future,” said 12-year-old Eleuthera Sea Camper, Chloe Lightbourne.

Another Eleuthera Sea Camper, 9-year-old Cohen Simmons said that he was thinking about a career in marine biology, “I liked exploring the ocean with the fish ID slates, one day I found a lionfish, after that I just wanted to keep looking for more fish.”

Andros, Kamalame Caythird in our line of 2024 camps, was no less exceptional. Andros Sea campers enjoyed a boat trip to Pigeon Cay in the Andros North Marine Park protected area. A pod of dolphins swam alongside the boat at the beginning of the journey and when campers arrived at their destination, they snorkelled at the site.

“I liked it when the dolphins came up to the boat and swam beside us. I want to come back to see them again.” said 13-year-old camper Alexander Wilson

Another Androsian camper, 12-year-old Makhi Cox explained “I liked the boat ride and exploring the mangroves. I wish I could learn about nature at this camp all summer long.” 

During these Sea Camps, participants had the opportunity to explore nature and learn about various animals and habitats. Campers also participated in arts and crafts, games, and educational presentations. They embarked on numerous snorkel adventures, exploring local beaches and marine protected areas – learning about their cultural significance in The Bahamas and building a deep connection with the marine environment. Equipped with fish ID slates, the young explorers identified various fish and sea creatures, which was an exciting and educational experience for them.

The success of the Nassau, Eleuthera, and Andros Sea Camps have created great anticipation for future sea camps, as students eagerly await upcoming adventures. BREEF is excited to continue this momentum, inspiring more young minds to become passionate stewards of the ocean.

This initiative fosters a sense of appreciation for the Bahamian marine environment, inspiring youth to become environmental stewards while teaching them practical water skills to safely explore Bahamian marine coastal ecosystems.

“Watching the students grow as we progressed through these camps was truly inspiring. Seeing them get comfortable in the marine environment with high hopes and spirits gives us great hope for the future,” said Jasmond Collie, BREEF Outreach & Education Officer and Lead Camp Coordinator.

BREEF extends their gratitude to all of their partners who hosted camp including, Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre, Haynes Library, Kamalame Cay, Didier and Martine Primat Foundation and to all of the BREEF volunteers who assisted during the duration of the camp. For more information about BREEF and its educational programmes, please visit breef.org

About BREEF

The Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) is dedicated to promoting the conservation of the Bahamian marine environment that sustains our way of life. Through education and outreach, BREEF works to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and bounty of our oceans. 

Nassau, Bahamas – As we celebrate Bahamian Independence Day, we consider our nation’s journey and the milestones that have shaped our identity. This year, our reflection must extend beyond our political independence to an equally critical form of freedom—independence from environmental damage. Our stunning natural ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and beach dunes, are vital to our survival.

They shield our low-lying islands from storm damage, sustain our economy, and preserve our cultural heritage. Today, we honour not just our national sovereignty but also our commitment to protecting these irreplaceable natural assets.Founded by Sir Nicholas Nuttall in 1993, the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) has been at the forefront of marine conservation for over 30 years. BREEF’s tireless work and collaboration with partners within The Bahamas and internationally have highlighted the importance of ecosystems in safeguarding our islands.

Coral reefs, often referred to as the rainforests of the sea, are crucial in mitigating the impacts of storms. They act as natural barriers, absorbing wave energy and reducing coastal erosion. Without these vibrant underwater cities, our shorelines would be significantly more vulnerable to the devastating effects of hurricanes and rising sea levels. Mangroves, too, play a critical role in protecting our islands. These resilient trees thrive in saltwater, creating a dense network of roots that stabilize the coastline and prevent erosion. They also act as natural water filters, improving water quality by trapping sediments and pollutants. Moreover, mangroves are essential for carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Their presence is a testament to nature’s ingenuity in balancing ecosystems and protecting life.

Beach dunes, often overlooked, are equally vital. These natural sand barriers protect inland areas from storm surges and high waves. They also serve as habitats for diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the biodiversity that defines our islands. The health of these dunes directly impacts our resilience to natural disasters. To protect these crucial ecosystems, much-needed coastal setbacks and land use planning must be implemented. By enforcing coastal setbacks, we can prevent development from encroaching on these natural buffers, allowing them to function effectively.

Thoughtful land use planning ensures that development is sustainable and minimizes its impact on the environment. These measures are essential for preserving our natural defenses against the increasing threats posed by climate change.The degradation of these ecosystems has dire consequences.

Economically, the loss of coral reefs, mangroves, and beach dunes threatens our tourism and fishing industries, which are the lifeblood of our economy. Healthy reefs attract visitors from around the world, supporting local businesses and providing jobs. Mangroves are nurseries for fish species that our fishing communities depend on. Environmentally, the loss of these ecosystems accelerates coastal erosion and reduces our natural defenses against storms, leading to increased disaster recovery costs and economic instability. The health implications are profound. Pollution and degraded ecosystems result in poorer water quality and reduced fish stocks, affecting food security and public health. Additionally, the increased vulnerability to natural disasters poses a direct threat to human lives and well-being.

BREEF’s 30 years of dedication to marine conservation are a beacon of hope. BREEF initiatives have inspired countless Bahamians to become environmental champions. Teachers and students across the archipelago are educating and being educated about the importance of conservation. Fishermen are respecting regulations and encouraging sustainable practices, and many in the tourism sector are promoting sustainable, regenerative tourism. There is a role for every one of us to play in building a legacy of environmental stewardship.

As a good friend recently remarked, “for the future of the planet, the world needs eight billion imperfect environmentalists.”This Independence Day, let us pledge to secure freedom for us and future generations to enjoy a healthy environment. By embracing our role as caretakers of our natural heritage, we can ensure that our islands remain vibrant and resilient. Together, we can achieve true independence — one that guarantees the protection and flourishing of our natural treasures. Let this be our collective mission, driven by our love for The Bahamas and inspired by the environmental champions among us. Happy Independence Day, Bahamas!

Casuarina McKinney-Lambert
Executive Director,
BREEF

This feature highlights a collection of students who have participated in various BREEF programmes. Each student shares their vision for the future of The Bahamas, specifically from a marine conservation perspective, answering the question: “Where would you like to see the future of The Bahamas?” Their responses were published as part of a special 51st Independence Day edition of The Tribune newspaper on July 10th, celebrating youth voices and their commitment to protecting our marine environment for future generations.

William Godet
Age 9
Vice President of Hillcrest Academy Eco-Club
Hillcrest Academy is the most recent Eco-School in The Bahamas to receive a Green Flag Award

“The one thing I would change for the future Bahamas is having an Eco-club for each school. Imagine The Bahamas with these three things: gardens, greenhouses, and litter-free school grounds. This would be a major upgrade for The Bahamas, leading to food security and cleaner air. This would also help the number one industry, tourism by reducing pollution. This new mindset will hopefully keep our future students interested in environmental protection for planet Earth.” – William Godet

Eliana Bowe
Age 13
Treasurer of St. John’s College Eco-Club
BREEF Young Reporters for the Environment Competition Winner (2022)

“When I think about what I would change for the future of The Bahamas one thing stands out to me – the prevalence of plastic use in The Bahamas. This harms our marine animals through ingestion and entanglement. We need more aggression from the government to put policies in place for the eradication of plastics. We can start by using alternatives to plastics like glass, wood, and paper to help this ongoing issue.” – Eliana Bowe

Lauren Scriven
Age 16
Member of Lyford Cay International School Eco-Club
BREEF Young Reporters for the Environment Competition 2nd Place Winner (2024)

“Implementing comprehensive environmental education in schools is key. Educating young people about climate change and sustainability will inspire a generation committed to preserving our natural heritage.” – Lauren Scriven

Farah Flowers
Age 18
BREEF/Island School Bahamas Environmental Steward Scholar (BESS) (2024/2025)

“As a young Bahamian woman, I have lived through countless days, watching the care we have put into our Bahama land decline; from environmental neglect to the overdevelopment of commercial areas. This leads to water pollution, habitat loss, coastal erosion, and many other unfortunate and damaging effects. I envision a future for The Bahamas where we embrace sustainable practices to preserve and protect our unique marine environment. Fostering a culture of care and responsibility, especially among younger generations, would be a highly impactful first step.” – Farah Flowers

Jervon Sands
Age 22
Bahamas Climate Change Youth Ambassador

MSc. Environmental Change Management, Oxford University

“To safeguard the future of the Bahamas, I would encourage a significant shift in the way
we educate. One of the main barriers to climate resilience and adaptation on a national level is
limited human capacity – which is essential for addressing the climate crisis. The number of
young Bahamians currently engaged in climate-focused careers is insufficient to secure our
country’s future. This is a direct result of an education system that is no longer building capacity
that supports the current needs of our people. We need to redefine why we teach so that we
can determine what to teach and how to teach it.” – Jervon Sands

Heather Brockbank
Age 20
Outreach Officer, Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation
BREEF Bahamas Environmental Steward Scholar (BESS) (2024/2025)

“I envision a future where The Bahamas leads the way in marine conservation, with all Bahamian students educated on the critical importance of climate action and coral reef conservation. By fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for our marine ecosystems, we can empower the next generation to protect and sustain our Bahamian marine Ecosystems that sustain our way of life.” – Heather Brockbank

Samantha Ramirez-Ruvalcaba
Age 20
Bahamas Sustainable Development Goals Youth Ambassador (2024)
Bachelors in Engineering in Environmental Technology, Universidad Anáhuac, Mexico City

“The future of The Bahamas heavily depends on the achievement of the SDGs. One significant change we need to advocate for and implement is the development of resilient infrastructure. Whether it’s through terrestrial or marine technologies, investing in these initiatives will help protect our people, our land, and our oceans from detrimental damage as climate change and its adverse effects present themselves now and in the upcoming years.” – Samantha Ramirez

Jayden Pratt
Age 16
Lyford Cay Foundation FOCUS Student
BREEF Young Reporter for the Environment

“One thing I would change for the future of the Bahamas is to motivate more Bahamians to care for our environment. I would like to see an end to people carelessly tossing non-degradable items out of their vehicles and mass littering after events. We sometimes underestimate the impact of pollution. However, it damages our natural flora and fauna. By raising local awareness of the major effects these actions have on the environment we can reduce environmental damage for the future of the Bahamas.” – Jayden Pratt

Shania Higgs
Age 16
Lyford Cay Foundation FOCUS Student
BREEF Young Reporters for the Environment Competition 3rd Place Winner (2024)

“As we look toward the future of The Bahamas, we should carefully and collectively evaluate our culture and seek what’s best for us despite outside influences. Our natural environment is so important to Bahamian culture and identity. We can be inspired by others as long as we don’t forget where we’ve come from as a people. I adore my generation and how we’ve rocked the world with our kooky ideas, but we need to be sure that the lyrics we proclaim so proudly on the global stage are our own, and not merely a cover of another’s song.” – Shania Higgs

Jonathan Pierre
Age 12
Nassau Christian Academy Student
BREEF Sea Camper (2024)

“One thing I would change for the future of The Bahamas is the amount of pollution there is in
the water. That is so the fish, corals, and mangroves will not die out. I would like for the
Bahamians, youth, and future generations, to not pollute the land, air, and water, so that
animals, plants, and us humans won’t also die out.” – Johnathan Pierre

Journey Higgs
Age 18
Cape Eleuthera Island School
BREEF/Island School Bahamas Environmental Steward Scholar (2024/2025)

“As a young Bahamian, I want education centred on sustainability. We must implement sustainable practices in our personal and professional lives. This, with enforced laws and regulations, will ensure that we conserve and protect the natural resources that we depend on now and for our future.” – Journey Higgs

Taryn McKinney-Lambert
Age 13
BREEF Young Reporter for the Environment & My Island, My Future Conservation Film Award Winner

“I would like to see more efforts to protect our reefs and mangroves that protect our low-lying islands and our way of life. Coral reefs are especially important during Hurricane Season. I also believe that the switch to more sustainable and clean energy sources is essential for our future.” – Taryn McKinney-Lambert

Tribune Supplement:

On Thursday, the 6th of  June 2024, Grand Bahama Bishop Michael Eldon School Eco-Schools Bahamas (ESB) Coordinator, Mrs. Cheng Bee Selim-Dela Peña was named as one of seventeen teachers worldwide honoured with the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) 2023/2024 Teacher Award. By instituting an award for teachers, the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) aims to recognize the efforts of outstanding teachers from the global network who promote and integrate Education for Sustainable Development in their schools and communities.

Through the award, FEE aims to highlight professional excellence, celebrate achievements, and spread inspirational stories amongst stakeholders. The award is not a competition awarded to a select few,but a recognition of teachers’ efforts and a celebration of their work and the impact they have had every day over the last 30 years.

An elated Cheng Bee Selim-Dela Pena, BMES Eco-Schools Coordinator, said, “When we instil genuine passion and character in our students, our environmental voice grows stronger. It’s challenging but possible with perseverance and dedication.”

“Our vision at BREEF is for a nation where all people appreciate the value of our oceans and everyone takes action to protect them,” stated BREEF Executive Director Casuarina McKinney-Lambert.  She continued, “Over the years, we’ve reached every school across the country, we’ve had at least one  from every Bahamian school participate in one of our week-long BREEF workshops.”

The Jury was very impressed with Mrs. Selim-Dela Peña’s  application, and one of the members highlighted that, “Cheng is innovative, caring, mentoring, encouraging, and helps students to discover their place in the natural world and what they can do to improve not only their surroundings but themselves as well.”

“Congratulations to Mrs. Cheng Bee Selim-Dela Peña for her unwavering support and inspiring so many young environmental stewards at BMES and in Grand Bahamas as a whole,” said Kevin Glinton, Education Coordinator and Eco-Schools Bahamas National Operator at the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF).

BMES was the first school in Grand Bahama to receive its 1st Green flag in 2016, and successfully renewed its 2nd green flag in 2020, its 3rd green flag in 2022, and its 4th green flag in 2023.  BMES’ Vertical Hydroponics Garden was among the top 5 of the FEE GAIA 20:30 Biodiversity Best Practice Competition winners on August 19, 2022.

Teachers who were involved in any of FEE’s three educational programmes for at least five years  were  eligible for the award. 

With over 100 members in 81 countries, the Foundation for Environmental Education is the largest environmental education organisation in the world.  BREEF officially represents FEE in The Bahamas and operates the Eco-Schools Bahamas and Young Reporters for the Environment  programmes. Eco-Schools is  a global sustainable school programme that is  active in 79 countries.  BREEF’s Eco Schools and Young Reporters  network is spread over six islands with 21 government and 27 private schools.

To learn more about Eco-Schools Bahamas ,YRE and other BREEF environmental education programmes and its work in promoting the conservation of the Bahamian marine environment, please email breef@breef.org  and ecoschoolsbahamas@breef.org. 

Nassau, Bahamas – June 8, 2024: The Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) celebrated World Oceans Day 2024 with a successful public snorkel event at Sea Beach Promenade on West Bay Street, engaging the community in marine conservation activities. This year’s event focused on snorkeling, providing participants with an immersive experience in the underwater world.

Heather Brockbank, BREEF’s Outreach Officer, emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “This month is absolutely essential. We are always providing opportunities for the community to join us in the water. These activities will help everyone to grow a stronger appreciation for our marine environment and see a greater need in protecting it.”

The Coral Bleaching Crisis
Last summer, coral reefs experienced mass coral bleaching due to record-breaking ocean temperatures. The corals growing on “Ocean Atlas,” the focal sculpture of the BREEF Coral Reef Sculpture Garden & Coral Nursery, bleached dramatically, and many corals died as a result of the underwater heatwave. Bleached corals, and mortality resulting from this bleaching, was observed around the country and around the world. As we head into the summer of 2024, it is expected to be even warmer, following spring months that broke all previous heat records.

As the oceans warm due to increased carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere, coral bleaching occurs. Corals, stressed by elevated temperatures, expel the algae living in their tissues that provide them with nutrition and colour. If the stress continues, corals can die. This bleaching event highlights the broader crisis facing coral reefs globally. May 2024 was already warmer than May 2023, and the summer of 2024 looks like it will be even hotter.

Celebrating 10 Years of Ocean Atlas
This year, BREEF proudly marks the 10th anniversary of Ocean Atlas at the Coral Reef Sculpture Garden (CRSG) in New Providence, Bahamas. As an artificial reef for marine life to colonize and inhabit, Ocean Atlas is an active symbol of hope in the fight against climate change. This milestone celebrates both visionary environmental art and crucial marine conservation efforts while highlighting the urgent need to address climate change affecting our coral reefs.

In 2014, BREEF unveiled Ocean Atlas, the world’s largest underwater sculpture. The 18-foot, 60-ton sculpture, created by artist Jason de Caires Taylor, symbolises the responsibility we all share in protecting marine environments. Ocean Atlas has become an iconic feature, drawing locals and visitors and serving as a powerful call to action for conservation.

National Oceans Protection Week Proclamation
In conjunction with these efforts, Prime Minister Philip E. Davis has renewed the “National Ocean Protection Week” proclamation, emphasising the nation’s dedication to marine conservation. This proclamation, spanning June 3rd to June 8th, 2024, aligns with World Oceans Day and highlights the critical importance of safeguarding our marine ecosystems. The proclamation underscores the collective responsibility to protect our oceans, reinforcing the vital work of organisations like BREEF in preserving the natural treasures of The Bahamas.

Education and Conservation at CRSG
More than a visual marvel, the CRSG is a thriving underwater classroom and coral nursery. Over the past decade, BREEF has used this underwater wonder to educate thousands of Bahamian children about marine conservation through snorkelling and hands-on learning. BREEF also encourages visitors to come and learn and get involved. The sculptures, now encrusted with live corals, provide habitat for marine life and serve as a living laboratory for students and scientists.

Restoration Efforts and Community Action
BREEF’s CRSG is a beacon of hope and a platform for raising awareness about climate change. By showcasing the impacts of coral bleaching, BREEF aims to mobilizse individuals and communities to advocate for sustainable practices and policies.
The CRSG also plays a critical role in coral restoration. BREEF’s coral nursery focuses on growing endangered coral and outplanting it to adjacent reefs. Since 2016, over 300 corals have been out-planted, boosting the area’s biodiversity and coral cover. Despite rising temperatures, these efforts demonstrate that resilience in coral reefs is possible with targeted interventions.

A Call to Action
As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Ocean Atlas, we reflect on our progress and renew our commitment to protecting our ocean. This milestone is an opportunity to inspire collective action against climate change and to continue supporting BREEF’s marine conservation and education initiatives.
Join BREEF in celebrating this remarkable achievement and in taking action to protect our marine ecosystems. Visit our website breef.org to learn more about supporting BREEF’s mission.

Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) and Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, Executive Director, applaud Prime Minister Philip E. Davis for renewing the “National Ocean Protection Week” proclamation, spanning from June 3rd to June 8th, 2024, aligning with the global celebration of World Oceans Day on June 8th. This proclamation emphasizes the imperative of safeguarding marine ecosystems for future generations.

Waterkeepers Bahamas (WKB), another esteemed organization dedicated to marine conservation and education, also extends their heartfelt appreciation to Prime Minister Davis for his commitment to ocean conservation. Both organizations emphasize the importance of protecting the Bahamas’ pristine waters, essential for the nation’s economy, culture, and identity.

As a nation uniquely vulnerable to climate change impacts, The Bahamas recognizes the importance of addressing these challenges head-on. By renewing the National Ocean Protection Week proclamation, Prime Minister Davis reaffirms the government’s dedication to mitigating the threats posed by pollution, overfishing, and climate change.

In the spirit of collaboration and environmental stewardship, Our Islands, Our Future expresses its sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Davis and looks forward to continuing to work with his administration to protect and preserve the marine treasures that define the nation.