GUADELOUPE:--- A delegation from Saint-Martin led by 2nd vice-president Bernadette DAVIS took part in the Seminar on Aquatic Environments and Flood Prevention (MAPI) organized in Guadeloupe by the Regional Council and the Directorate for the Environment, Planning, and Housing (DEAL). This event strengthened the understanding of issues related to the management of aquatic environments and flood prevention.
Bernadette Davis, Vice President in charge of Sustainable Development, was accompanied by Gloria Chance, Head of the Natural Heritage and Biodiversity Department, and Hakeem Richardson, Head of the Water Cycle Department.
During her speech, Mrs Davis highlighted Saint-Martin's experience within the framework of the Preliminary Study Program for the Flood Prevention Action Program (PEP-PAPI). She emphasized the territory's vulnerability to natural hazards and the effects of climate change, exacerbated by increasing urbanization. Special focus was placed on the restoration of the island’s ponds, which play a crucial role in managing rainwater and preventing flooding.
The delegation presented the financial commitments of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin to ensure the regular maintenance of rainwater drainage networks and ravines. They emphasized the need to adopt environmentally friendly methods, such as brush clearing and mowing, to preserve biodiversity.
Additionally, the representatives from Saint-Martin presented their infrastructure strategy, prioritizing the maintenance and optimization of existing facilities in the short term while developing major projects like the PAPI (Flood Prevention Action Program). Over the past two years, efforts have improved rainwater drainage and strengthened risk zone monitoring. Targeted interventions, such as pumping and controlled opening of pond outlets, are carried out when necessary.
A key highlight of the seminar was the reaffirmation of Saint-Martin’s commitment to integrating the BESTLIFE2030 program of the French Biodiversity Office (OFB). This funding initiative supports environmental projects in the EU’s Outermost Regions (RUP) and Overseas Countries and Territories (PTOM), covering up to 95% of project budgets for periods ranging from 18 to 36 months. The Collectivity aims to leverage this program to protect its unique biodiversity while enhancing residents' quality of life.
In conclusion, Mrs Davis stressed the importance of public awareness and education, urging everyone to adopt responsible behaviors to actively contribute to environmental preservation.
During the seminar, Professor Pascal Saffache presented alarming projections, indicating a potential sea level rise of up to 1.17 meters by the end of the century, with levels already 25 cm higher than in 1990.
Beyond sharing experiences, these meetings are essential to positioning Saint-Martin within a regional framework, fostering exchanges with other territories facing similar challenges, and strengthening strategies for climate risk adaptation. Such discussions help identify tailored solutions and mobilize necessary resources for a more resilient environmental management approach.
