By Foresee Foundation
Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) has closed 2024, marked by impactful initiatives and significant strides in preserving St. Maarten’s natural beauty. Through tireless community efforts and partnerships, the organization has demonstrated how collective action can protect and enhance the environment.
EPIC’s impact was reflected in notable statistics that underscore its dedication to environmental protection. Seven cleanup events across beaches, lagoons, and inland areas removed 2,142.7 kilograms (4,721 pounds) of trash, significantly improving ecosystem health and reducing pollution. Two community events and fundraisers united residents to raise essential funds and strengthen bonds, while a cacti planting event at Fort Amsterdam enhanced biodiversity and emphasized the importance of restoration.
In total, 475 volunteers invested over 1,300 hours in hands-on conservation work, demonstrating the community’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding St. Maarten’s natural beauty. These achievements, excluding the efforts of Perpetual Plastics, showcase the power of collective action. The opening of the Perpetual Plastics recycling workspace marked a ground-breaking step in tackling waste management challenges, providing a practical solution to one of St Maarten’s most pressing environmental issues.
“This year, our volunteers showed remarkable commitment to environmental conservation, investing their time and efforts to clean our coastline and protect our natural resources,” said EPIC Board President Fleur Hermanides. “Their dedication has been the driving force behind the success we’ve achieved. We are profoundly grateful for their hard work, passion, and unwavering support. Each hour they contributed and every effort they made has brought us closer to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Sint Maarten. Our heartfelt thanks go to every individual who stepped up this year – your efforts are truly EPIC!”
EPIC also relaunched the Blue Flag and Green Key programs, underscoring the organization’s dedication to sustainable practices.
In addition to these accomplishments, EPIC partnered with Grant Thornton as part of the Cx3 Challenge and co-hosted a successful Caribbean Climate Justice Camp, fostering regional collaboration and climate action.
These milestones were made possible through the support of other local non-profits, sponsors/donors and funders, and a diverse range of stakeholders. EPIC expressed gratitude for these invaluable partnerships, emphasizing their role in amplifying the organization’s impact. While celebrating these achievements, however, EPIC acknowledges that the road ahead remains challenging. The ongoing struggle with waste management and unsustainable development highlights the urgent need for systemic changes and sustained community involvement.
