Managing Shared Natural Spaces
On small islands like ours, natural spaces are shared with wild flora and fauna. Dr Anjani Ganase discusses some human impacts that we all should be mindful of. Human populations have expanded around the world, not only in cities and towns, but spreading into wilderness areas. It’s time that we learn to share urban spaces as well as to respect all natural spaces whether these are actively protected or not. In Trinidad and Tobago, there is a surge in outdoor activities as people see the appeal of dancing/ working out/ being under the stars, with a picturesque backdrop of tropical forests, beaches and lagoons. Large group hikes (100+ persons) and outdoor fetes have become popular. On one occasion, I observed Pigeon Point beach in the days after a beach fete. Keep in mind that Pigeon Point occurs in Trinidad and Tobago’s only marine protected area with its unique habitat and biodiversity. Walking along the beach, I collected handfuls of cable ties, pieces of wi...