Over 70 grantees, partners, and experts have gathered in the Dominican Republic until November 21, 2024, to assess the progress of CEPF's initiatives in the Caribbean.
This regional meeting aims to evaluate the impact of multi-year conservation efforts, identify challenges, and shape strategies for the second phase of CEPF investments.
With a focus on protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable livelihoods, this event highlights the power of collaboration among local and international conservation stakeholders.
DAY THREE
DAY TWO
DAY ONE
The Vice Minister of Protected Areas and Biodiversity, Carlos Bautista, welcomed the guests at the Caribbean Islands Biodiversity Hotspot Midterm Assessment Meeting, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation in the Dominican Republic.
He highlighted the efforts of various organizations in planning and safeguarding protected areas, while stressing the need to consider the impact of economic growth on natural resources. He underscored the need of the state support for conservation projects, pointing out the critical role of international cooperation and reaffirmed the urgency of uniting all stakeholders to achieve meaningful and sustainable biodiversity conservation.
Finally, he called for united efforts to protect ecosystems and ensure sustainable development, reminding everyone that caring for the environment means caring for the future.
Jack Tordoff, Managing Director of the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), addressed the ongoing efforts to conserve biodiversity and support civil society in tackling environmental challenges.
He emphasized the need for inclusive resource access, extending program timelines, and introducing innovative solutions to address climate-related crises.
Key takeaways:
- The current phase, originally set to end in 2026, will now extend to 2027, providing more time to implement ongoing projects.
- A new global facility will offer emergency grants to address crises such as hurricanes and wildfires, open to both current and former CEPF grantees.
- Efforts are being made to bridge the gap between large institutions and local organizations, ensuring resources are more accessible to grassroots initiatives.
- CEPF reaffirmed its long-term dedication to supporting conservation across the Caribbean, leveraging its strong foundation and partnerships.