The Launch of the UNDP Publication "Latin America and the Caribbean - A Biodiversity Superpower"

 

On the 19th January the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the 2010 Latin America and Caribbean Biodiversity Report: “Latin America and the Caribbean – A Biodiversity Superpower” at the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (UNECLAC) offices at #1 Chancery Lane, Port of Spain. This regional report marked the collaborative efforts of several UN agencies including UNDP, UNECLAC, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the Convention o the Biological Diversity (CBD) Secretariat.

The Honourable Dr. Roodal Moonilal delivering the feature address. Photo: UNDP

 

The main objective of the report is to inform policy and decision makers and other stakeholders of the substantial contribution of biodiversity and ecosystem services to the region’s development, equity and long-term competitiveness. The event was hosted by UNDP Programme Officer for Energy and the Environment, Ms. Rosemary Lall, and was attended by stakeholders from various Non-Governmental Organizations, Civil Society, and representatives from regional and international organizations, distinguished guests including The Honourable Stephen Cadiz, Minister of Trade and Industry, and members of the media. The Minister of Housing and the Environment, The Honourable Dr. Roodal Moonilal gave the feature address acknowledging the significant role played by the Caribbean, and Trinidad and Tobago in particular, in a region deemed a “superpower” in biodiversity.

 

Cristopher Briggs begins his presentation on the results of the Regional Biodiversity Report. Photo: UNDP

 

Other speakers included Dr. Marcia de Castro, Mr. Christopher Briggs, UNDP Energy and Environment Practice Leader for Latin America and the Caribbean, and Ms. Grace Talma, Chairperson of the Global Environment Facility/Small Grants Programme (GEF/SGP) National Steering Committee. Mr. Briggs presented the results of the regional report while Ms. Talma gave a heartfelt presentation on the activities of GEF/SGP, its contribution to community capacity development and its efforts in the conservation of ecosystems and specific species.

 

Grace Talma, Chairperson GEF/SGP NSC. Photo: UNDP

Marcia de Castro, UN Resident Representative. Photo: UNDP

 

To access the Biodiversity Reports online, please click here.