ACS Advocates for Science-Driven Caribbean Cooperation Addressing Sargassum Influxes

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago - April 22, 2025 - The Association of Caribbean States (ACS) played a pivotal role as an observer in the recent joint technical meeting of the Cartagena Convention’s Protocols, focusing on Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) and Land-Based Sources of Marine Pollution (LBS), held from March 18 to 20, 2025, at the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), Trinidad and Tobago.

In line with its commitment to a coordinated and sustainable response to recurring sargassum influxes in the Greater Caribbean, the ACS contributed to regional discussions on the impacts of Sargassum blooms, particularly the role of land-based nutrient pollution and the resulting socio-economic disruptions. The meeting fostered knowledge exchange on early warning systems, sustainable collection practices, and circular economy solutions.

The ACS reaffirmed its support for integrated, science-based regional cooperation through its ongoing involvement with the Cartagena Convention and the Caribbean Sea Commission.