Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) a local non-governmental, non-profit foundation has been managing and carrying-out nature conservation projects, research and environmental education programs on Sint Maarten since 2001.
In March of 2007 the Foundation launched its Love the Lagoon project which is aimed at raising environmental awareness and addressing the Simpson Bay Lagoon's pollution problems through educational programs and stakeholder participation.
The Foundation's environmental education program has reached thousands of primary as well as secondary school students and members of a wide range of organisations. In addition to its environmental education program EPIC is also the National Operator for the Blue Flag Program an international eco-label for beaches and marinas. As of October 2011 St. Maarten has two internationally recognized Blue Flag locations.
EPIC-St. Maarten would hereby like to introduce its newest members of the Board of Directors, Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Oldine Bryson-Pantophlet, and Alexandra Halley who join previous Board members Adam Brown and Natalia Collier. While all Board Members share a concern for environmental conservation, each also brings their own particular assets to the organization. Mrs. Ancora-Brown has an excellent understanding of communications and marketing as well as Board experience. Mrs. Bryson-Pantophlet offers extensive experience in the fields of education, non-profit management, and advocacy. Mrs. Halley has a valuable perspective as a local eco-tourism business owner who is also active in the non-profit sector. The Board has begun meeting regularly to fulfil EPIC's mission of protecting the Caribbean environment through research and community-based action.
Local environmental conservationist Rueben J. Thompson, Project Manager for EPIC's Love the Lagoon Program, serves as media relations officer for the organization, communicating with the public and third parties on behalf of the Board of Directors, while also providing a respected perspective on environmental issues. The Board has entrusted and fully supports Thompson with carrying out daily management activities.
EPIC looks forward to continuing and expanding its efforts to provide long-term research, environmental education, and community-based remedies to the environmental challenges St. Maarten faces.
