Environment in St Vincent and Grenadines

Nature in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines includes volcanic mountains, tropical forests, drier island areas, wetlands, coral reefs, seagrass beds and surrounding coastal waters. These systems support drinking water, farming, fisheries, coastal protection, tourism and recreation. Forest reserves, wildlife reserves, marine parks, marine reserves and other conservation areas protect parts of these resources. Pollution, habitat loss, excessive use and natural hazards can reduce their condition. The everyday surroundings include homes, roads, drainage, water and electricity services, green spaces, air, noise and public safety. These conditions affect health, mobility, property and access to work, schools and essential services. Nature and everyday surroundings overlap: damaged drainage can increase flooding, poor waste management can affect the sea, and development on steep or exposed land can increase local risks. Environmental responsibility is shared among several public bodies, local services, landowners, businesses, communities and households. The relevant responsibility depends on the subject, such as protected areas, water, roads, waste, construction, public health or emergency response. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines also faces differences between islands and locations because terrain, coastal position, infrastructure and weather exposure are not uniform. A useful assessment therefore considers the specific place, the natural resources involved, the surrounding infrastructure and the applicable public authority.