Saint Lucia is making significant strides in upgrading its Coastal and Marine Spatial Plan.
At the center of this initiative is a Coastal Master Plan that outlines a comprehensive suite of priority interventions and investment opportunities, all designed to enhance economic resilience and promote inclusive growth.
These priorities, shaped by extensive stakeholder engagement and community involvement, accurately reflect the existing and emerging opportunities within Saint Lucia’s coastal and marine environments.
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has formally recognized the Government of Saint Lucia for the endorsement of this important Coastal and Marine Spatial Plan, as approved through Cabinet Conclusion No. 457 of 2024.
This milestone highlights Saint Lucia’s leadership and unwavering commitment to sustainable ocean governance and advancing its Blue Economy initiatives.
Developed under the Caribbean Regional Oceanscape Project (CROP), which was implemented from 2017 to 2021 with support from the World Bank, the Coastal and Marine Spatial Plan offers an integrated, forward-looking framework to guide the sustainable use, management, and development of Saint Lucia’s coastal and marine resources.
The accompanying Marketing Plan identifies five key potential investment packages:
– Village Tourism
– Solar farm enhancement
– Resilient fisheries facilities
– Business accommodation
– Wind energy development
These initiatives collectively support Saint Lucia’s transition towards a robust, climate-resilient Blue Economy, unlocking sustainable economic opportunities while preserving the nation’s invaluable coastal assets.
Additionally, the Plan includes a Marine Spatial Plan that establishes a framework for managing nearshore and offshore areas. This tool enhances decision-making by minimizing conflicts among competing uses, aligning land-sea interactions, and mitigating risks associated with coastal and marine investments.
It provides clarity and assurance for both public and private stakeholders, which are crucial for the foundation of sustainable ocean development.
The OECS Commission commends Saint Lucia for taking this strategic step and reaffirms its commitment to assisting Member States in developing and implementing integrated ocean governance frameworks.
Saint Lucia’s Coastal and Marine Spatial Plan serves as a model for regional collaboration, environmental stewardship, and the transformation of the Blue Economy.