A whole new cadre of unofficial environmental ambassadors were born out of Forestry Awareness Week 2025. Under the theme “Forests and Food”, scores of young people participated in various events hosted by the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources’ Forestry Unit, designed to inspire them to action.
School-aged and university students participated in the events designed to give them awareness of the importance of Bahamian forests as well as an appreciation for the abundant natural resources the country holds.
Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources Hon. Vaughn Miller asked: “What does the future hold for these vital ecosystems?”
“That responsibility lies with our youth. Education is the most powerful tool we must instil a culture of conservation in the next generation. When we teach our children about the importance of forests, how they filter our air, protect our shorelines, and sustain our food systems, we empower them to become guardians of the environment.”
During Forestry Awareness Week 2025, youngsters visited mangrove ponds to conduct planting exercises as a form of experiential learning. Mangrove forests capture massive amounts of carbon dioxide emissions and other greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, and then trap and store them in their carbon-rich flooded soils for millennia. This is an important ecosystem service as we face climate change.
The youth also engaged in a special symposium at the University of The Bahamas. Students explored outdoor stalls featuring bush teas, environmental planning exhibits, marine protection displays—and even had the chance to hold a real baby boa!
“This year’s theme, “Forests and Food,” reminds us that our forests are more than just trees, they are lifelines,” said Minister of State Hon. Zane Lightbourne.
“They nourish our land, sustain our fisheries, and provide food security for our communities. Whether it is the mangroves protecting our marine life or the fruit-bearing trees that have fed generations of Bahamians, our forests are deeply connected to our survival.”
Forestry Director Danielle Hanek added: “Our mangrove forests, our ecosystems, help us. Without them, our food network – our grouper, snapper, conch, bonefish, and other species would be gone. With Forestry Awareness Week, we are celebrating what we need to protect our food and resources.”
Source: Felicity Darville
