The Forestry Unit in the ministry of Agriculture collaborated with the Royalton
Antigua resort to observe International Day of Forests, March 21, 2024.
Both entities planted a number of trees in the Body Pond area to emphasize the
resort’s commitment to environmental stewardship as well as to highlight the
vital role of public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable land
management practices.
“At the heart of this initiative lies the introduction of a specially selected
Gmelina arborea (locally known as white peak or beechwood) plant at a
designated pond site, chosen for its ability to withstand forest fires and
contribute to the enhancement of biodiversity in the area. The Gmelina arborea
represents a symbolic gesture towards fostering a healthier and more resilient
ecosystem,” a note from the ministry of agriculture revealed.
The Forestry Unit noted that the planting exercise on Thursday marked a
historic moment as the Royalton's staff planted the first generation of this
specific plant and paved the way for future generations to thrive in the
rejuvenated landscape. It is anticipated that seeds from this plant will be
collected, signaling the beginning of a sustainable propagation cycle that
promises to further enrich the biodiversity of the area.
The allocation of this area to Royalton Antigua signified the resort’s role as a
responsible corporation dedicated to supporting environmental conservation
efforts. By partnering with the Forestry Unit, Royalton demonstrated its
commitment to create collaborations between tourism and environmental
conservation, thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability of Antigua
and Barbuda's natural resources.
“Integral to the success of this initiative is the implementation of geo-tagging
technology by the Forestry Unit, enabling real-time tracking of the tree planting
process. Through geo-tagging, Royalton's management team and stakeholders
can stay informed about the progress of the planted trees, ensuring transparency,
accountability, and effective monitoring of the project's outcomes.
By actively participating in this tree planting initiative, the Royalton
representatives set an inspiring example of leadership and environmental
stewardship. Their participation underscores the hotel's dedication to promoting
sustainable tourism practices and fostering a culture of corporate social
responsibility,” the release stated.
It described the collaboration between the Forestry Unit and the Royalton
Antigua resort as a testament to the power of collective action in safeguarding
the planet's precious natural resources. “By working together to plant trees, we
not only contribute to the fight against climate change but also pave the way for
a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come,” it reiterated.
