Wild Tobago

In July and August, children have opportunities to learn outside the schools. Dr Anjani Ganase looks at a couple camps that integrated coral reef exploration in their activity. In the International Year of the Reef (2018) , Trinidad and Tobago Initiative ( IYORTT ), one major aim is to engage and build awareness of coral reefs among children; and where better than at fun camps in the long school vacation. IYORTT team members have been visiting summer camps in Trinidad and Tobago to talk about the value of our coastal ecosystems and coral reefs, instilling a sense of stewardship and inspiration in the next generation. Our lessons in marine ecology were well received and nicely integrated into the current camp themes. Here are some highlights: Sea, Sun and Science with Buccoo Reef Trust Tobago Since 2002, the Buccoo Reef Trust has been hosting the programme Sea, Sun and Science (SSS) where budding scientists and explorers get the opportunity to learn about the diverse ma...

This article is the first of a series that focuses on The International Year of the Reef 2018 and the T&T initiative. This week Dr Anjani Ganase, marine scientist, discusses the global impacts of climate change on coral bleaching, and the significance of actions to stem climate change 2018 is the International Year of the Reef (IYOR), a global effort initiated by the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) to strengthen global awareness of the value of coral reef ecosystems. In Trinidad and Tobago, under the banner of IYOR T&T, a group of marine scientists in collaboration with other partners is launching a series of activities and programmes that showcase coral reef biodiversity, their value, the threats they face and opportunities for stewardship and protection. Currently, the effects of rising ocean temperatures compounded by pollution, plastics, sedimentation, overfishing and habitat destruction are threatening the future of coral reefs. Coral reefs are known to...