Nature Policy Plan 2013-2017

Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands Nature Policy for the Caribbean Netherlands 2013-2017 Contents A Introduction 3 Process 4 Policy Objective and Function 4 B The Caribbean Netherlands in Context 8 1 Nature and Biodiversity 8 2 Threats 8 3 Nature as an Economic Resource 10 4 Legal Framework 10 C Roles and responsibilities 14 1 National Government 15 2 The Island Governments 15 3 Non-Governmental Nature Conservation Organisations (NGOs) 16 4 International Cooperation 16 D Resources 20 1 National Governement 20 2 Local 21 3 Donations 22 E Strategy and goals 24 1 Mainstreaming 24 2 Nature Management 24 3 Strategic goals and actions 33 Appendix 1 Internationally Protected Species 38 Appendix 2 List of international treaties 48 Appendix 3 List of Acronyms 52 A | Introduction Aruba, Curaçao, St. Maarten, Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius form the Dutch Caribbean within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is a comprehensive sovereign state made up of four countries of which the Netherlands is one. Aruba, Curaçao, and St. Maarten each form one of the three remaining constituent countries, while the other islands, Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba, are Dutch overseas public bodies and as such are part of the country of the Netherlands. Collectively these three islands are known as the Caribbean Netherlands and are the focus of the present Nature Policy Plan. Where possible, this Nature Policy Plan will be implemented in line with the Nature Policy Plans of the other constituent countries of the Kingdom. The Dutch Caribbean islands show great biological diversity and support hundreds of endemic species and ecosystems some of which are globally threatened. These ecosystems are a source of clean water, food, coastal protection and medicine. Nature on the islands is vulnerable; populations are often small on account of the size of the islands and the loss, fragmentation and degradation of habitats. The whole region is threatened by invasive species and the effects of climate change. Ecosystems range from arid, cactus dominated landscapes, dry forests and evergreen limestone vegetation, to tropical rainforests and elfin forests. The surrounding waters and coastal zones are rich with mangrove forests, seagrass beds and coral reefs. 3 Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 54 The waters surrounding the islands are rich in marine biodiversity. The Exclusive Economic Zone around Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Maarten encompasses the entire Saba Bank, which is the largest submerged coral atoll in the Atlantic Ocean and has some of the richest marine biodiversity in the Caribbean Sea. New species of fish, coral and algae that have never been described before are discovered here on a regular basis. The deep reef and deep-sea environment around the islands are as of yet essentially unexplored, but appear to be rich in species. Process The evaluation of the Nature Policy Plan for the Netherlands Antilles was used as a starting point for the present plan. An assessment was made of the effectiveness of its policy objectives and actions for 2000-2010 and the additional actions required. The limitations in terms of capacity, funding and political support turned out to be the chief challenges for implementation. It also became clear that there were new threats, such as climate change, which has a major impact on coral bleaching, and hurricanes and invasive species also posed a danger. In accordance with the request from the Dutch Parliament, the Minister of Economic Affairs decided that the new Nature Policy Plan had to be developed in close cooperation with the stakeholders in the Dutch Caribbean. Stakeholders included the Island Governments, nature conservation organisations (Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance), the business sector, the tourist sector, the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, and the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment. This ensured that the plan would enjoy a broad base of support. Policy Objective and Function The Nature Policy Plan 2013-2017 provides a framework for sound management and the wise use of nature in the Caribbean Netherlands. The Plan’s objective is to ensure that nature on the Caribbean islands is used in a sustainable way so that the island’s ecosystems and ecosystem services can be preserved. It is intended as a basis for sound decision-making and the allocation of resources and funds. It embraces clear strategic objectives indicating the areas to be focused on for the adequate protection of nature. It provides a framework for the island specific nature policy plans to be drawn up by the islands’ governing bodies. The Plan is rooted in the international agreements, conventions and regional agreements the Kingdom has committed itself to and in national legislation on nature and biodiversity Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 76 7 Photo: SHAPE in the Caribbean Netherlands. The Nature Policy Plan is not concerned with the protection of species and areas not subject to international agreements. It was designed as a key instrument to promote socio-economic and human wellbeing and encourage the integration of nature conservation in the various public and socio-economic sectors, getting nature conservation into the mainstream of society. All sectors in society depend on a whole range of goods and services produced by ecosystems. Conversely all sectors in society also have an impact on biodiversity. Many of them could profit substanti ally from better integration of nature conservation in economic development, education, welfare, sport, art and culture. In decision-making for the Dutch Caribbean the link between nature and the economy is crucial. Nature is a vital resource for economic development. The quality of the decision making process will be improved by putting in place operational objectives for the wise use of nature and developing an evaluation framework to weigh the impacts of existing and planned activities on nature and the economy. Sound nature management requires an active approach to the protection of areas and species, a focus on communication, education and awareness, active research and monito ring, and interaction with stakeholders. Additionally, it requires an integrated approach to address serious anthropogenic threats such as the introduction of invasive species and climate change, as well as addressing the need for the rehabilitation of degraded ecosystems. A concerted effort is necessary to enable successful nature management in the Dutch Caribbean. The Nature Policy Plan is an instrument to ensure the continuous commitment and involvement of stakeholders and the recognition of their various roles and responsibilities. The present Plan does not focus on environmental aspects such as water quality, waste management and soil protection. These issues will be addressed in the Environmental Policy Plan for Caribbean Netherlands and the separate environmental policy plans of the islands themselves, which naturally will be tied in with the present Plan. Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 9 1 Nature and Biodiversity The islands form part of the “Caribbean biodiversity hotspot” due to their species richness and the fact that they hold especially high numbers of endemic animal and plant species (Conservation International, 2004). Their ecosystems range from arid, cactus dominated landscapes, dry forests and evergreen limestone vegetation, to tropical rainforests and elfin forests. The surrounding waters and coastal zones support mangrove forests, seagrass beds and coral reefs rich in biodiversity. The diverse nature in the Dutch Caribbean is not only important on a local scale; it also has global significance. This is why the islands have worked together with other countries and islands in the region to preserve this richness. The region as a whole is developing fast, but there are large differences from one island to another. The Dutch Caribbean islands are working towards a higher level of prosperity. 2 Threats Policymakers should have a clear idea of the threats to the islands’ ecosystems to determine the focus of nature policy and to direct research and monitoring accordingly. In 2011 the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA), performed an assessment of the threats to nature parks on the islands. In 2010 the greatest threats to protected terrestrial areas in decreasing order of significance were invasive fauna, pastoral farming (animals), erosion, invasive flora, horseback riding, tropical storms, development or conversion of land use, vehicles, collection, kayaking and volcanic activity. In the same year the largest threats to protected marine areas in decreasing order of significance were invasive fauna, nutrient enrichment, development or conversion of land use, artisanal fishing, pollution (terrestrial run-off and sewage), recreational fishing, sedimentation, coral bleaching, diving/snorkelling and poaching. As the islands’ nature parks were the focus of the DCNA study, the ecosystems outside the parks were not included. A broader analysis of threats is required for a more comprehensive nature policy. It is clear however that climate change and invasive species are serious threats to biodiversity in the Dutch Caribbean. Climate Change Climate change poses a major threat to the ecosystems and ecosystem services in the Caribbean Netherlands (Alterra Wageningen UR, Debrot en Bugter, 2010). The main consequences of climate change we are likely to see this century include: increases in air and sea surface temperatures, an increase in sea level and ocean acidity, an increase in the frequency and intensity of storms and hurricanes, general aridification and greater overall unpredictability in weather. The consequences for both terrestrial and marine areas are predicted to be far-reaching. The principal effects are likely to include further losses to the coral reef systems, erosion of coasts and beaches, salinification of groundwater sources, losses in hilltop vegetation and flora, soil humus losses and erosion, increases in various disease vectors, changes in ocean currents fish recruitment and migration and a stronger foothold for invasive species. It is not possible to impact the main drivers of global climate change from the island level, but the islands can improve the resilience of their ecosystems to enable them to withstand the predicted changes and keep the adverse effects to a minimum. Invasive species The introduction of invasive species in isolated communities is increasingly becoming a global problem, which also affects the Dutch Caribbean. Some exotic species grow and reproduce quickly, and spread aggressively to the detriment of native species and communities. In the Dutch Caribbean around 84 invasive species are documented, of which 61 occur in terrestrial areas and 23 in the marine environment. These invasive species are presently found on one or more of the islands and include exotic mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, invertebrates, worms as well as plant and animal diseases. 8 B | The Caribbean Netherlands in Context Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 10 Managing the invasive species and preventing new introductions is of critical importance. In marine environments, managing and eradicating invasive species has proved to be very difficult and often times even impossible. The efforts for marine environments are focused therefore on prevention of introduction. This includes the development of adequate legal instruments to put an effective strategy in place. 3 Nature as an Economic Resource Nature in the Caribbean Netherlands is a resource for economic development. Apart from small-scale farming or aquaculture nothing can be produced on the islands without bringing in raw materials from elsewhere. The economy depends for a large part on tourism and tourism in its turn depends for a large part on the natural capital of the islands, which is why a healthy natural environment is key. Tourists (and investors) come to the islands from all over the world to enjoy the beaches, the clear ocean water and coral reefs, the natural landscapes and the beautiful flora with its cacti and orchids, the fauna with its age-old colonies of coral and fluorescent sponges, the hummingbirds and iguanas. 4 Legal Framework Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba (the Caribbean Netherlands) are Dutch overseas ‘public entities’. They do not form part of the Dutch provinces, therefore the powers normally exercised by provincial councils are divided between the Island Governments themselves and the National Government by means of the National Office for the Caribbean Netherlands [Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland]. The Caribbean Netherlands largely has its own laws and regulations, called BES-law. Nature and fisheries regulation has largely been taken over from the former Netherlands Antilles. International The International Treaties and Conventions to which the Kingdom of the Netherlands is a signatory party include the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Ramsar Convention (on Wetlands of International Importance), the Cartagena Convention (for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment of the Wider Caribbean Region with the SPAW Protocol (concerning Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife), the Bonn Convention (or the Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and the Inter-American Convention for the Protection and Conservation of Sea Turtles (IAC). 11 Photo: © DCNA - SHAPE. Photographer: Hans Leijnse Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 1312 Photo: Saba © DCNA - SHAPE. Photographer: Christian König Regional cooperation is aimed at neighbouring countries Saint Kitts and Nevis, Venezuela, France, the Dominican Republic, the United Kingdom and the United States of America with participation in the Western Hemisphere Migratory Species Initiative (WHMSI), Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) and the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) (See Appendix 3). National The obligations under the international agreements are incorporated in national legislation. For the Caribbean Netherlands this is the Nature Conservation Framework Act BES [Wet grondslagen natuurbeheer en -bescherming BES]. This Act also provides for the division of roles and responsibilities between the National Government and the islands’ governing bodies. Every five years the Minister of Economic Affairs must approve a Nature Policy Plan in consultation with the islands’ governing bodies taking into account the islands’ spatial developments plans. This Nature Policy Plan sets the framework for nature policy that should at least include: • The objectives for nature and landscape to be realised within the planning period and a survey of the priorities that need to be addressed; • The nature values to be protected and to be taken into account in implementing the policy; • A list of the terrestrial and marine national parks, which have been designated as protected areas by island ordinance or by ministerial decree. The Fisheries Act BES [Visserijwet BES] and the Maritime Management Act BES [Wet Maritiem Beheer BES] will complement the legislation. The Public Housing, Spatial Planning and Environmental Protection Act BES [Wet VROM BES] of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment will come into force to protect the environmental values. Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 1514 The National Government and the islands’ governing bodies are primarily responsible for nature policy and its implementation. Additionally, many non-governmental parties are also active in nature management. Proper coordination and cooperation is the key to success here. On the scale of the Kingdom, the National Government wishes to cooperate with the other islands of Aruba, Curaçao and St. Maarten. C | Roles and responsibilities 1 National Government The National Government bears final responsibility for the protection of special areas and species referred to in the international Treaties and Conventions to which the Kingdom of the Netherlands is signatory. This implies promoting the implementation of the relevant regional and international treaties and conventions such as the SPAW protocol under the Cartagena Convention. The requirements of the conventions are anchored in the Nature Conservation Framework Act BES [Wet grondslagen natuurbeheer en -bescherming BES]. The National Government supervises the management of nature on the islands to ensure the proper protection of species and areas and can assist the islands’ governing bodies with implementation at their request. The Minister of Economic Affairs bears direct responsibility for the management of areas that fall outside the island’s jurisdiction but within the Kingdom’s, such as the Exclusive Economic Zone. To improve coordination, the Minister of Economic Affairs will set up a Nature Commission that will advise the Minister and the islands’ governing bodies on measures relevant to the implementation of the Nature Conservation Framework Act BES. 2 The Island Governments The final responsibility for the conservation and management of nature on the islands primarily lies with the governing bodies of the islands. They must ensure that nature management within and outside of the designated protected areas are furnished with the resources and funds required and that the relevant policy, planning, legislation and enforcement are adequate to ensure proper protection of the islands’ natural resources. They must also supervise compliance with the requirements of international treaties and conventions. Nature Conservation on the islands is mandated to non-governmental nature conservation organisations: the Bonaire National Parks Foundation (STINAPA), St. Eustatius National Parks (STENAPA) and Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF). Their mandates are anchored in regulations and management agreements. Apart from being responsible for the develop ment and implementation of the management plans, these organisations also have enforcement authority. The nature policy plans drawn up by the islands’ governing bodies must be in line with the present Nature Policy Plan for the Caribbean Netherlands. The islands’ plans are to include Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 1716 more specific objectives for the protection, management and wise use of nature and should include maps indicating the designated areas, lists of protected species and a management plan for the nature outside the protected areas. It is recommended that each island forms a platform for consultation between local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the Islands Government’s representatives on the management of the protected areas and species. 3 Non-Governmental Nature Conservation Organisations (NGOs) In addition to the before-mentioned park management organisations there are also organisations dedicated to the protection of specific areas and/or specific species, such as sea turtles or parrots. There are also private sector organisations in place with businesses supporting nature management at the macro or micro level by, for instance, managing Ramsar-sites and bird nesting areas, organising reef cleanups and restoration projects. Research and educational institutes are also concerned with the state of the islands’ natural resources. The Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) is a regional network of nature conservation organisations, set up to help and assist the park management and nature conservation organisations on the islands to better safeguard the islands’ unique natural world and promote sustainable management. DCNA serves as a network between the islands, builds local capacity and represents regional interests. DCNA also manages a trust fund which, when capitalised, will cover all operational costs for one land park and one marine park on each island of the Dutch Caribbean. 4 International Cooperation The Dutch Government works in partnership with other countries to actively address nature conservation and is signatory to a number of international nature conservation agreements. In the future the interests of the Caribbean Netherlands will also be taken into account when these international agreements are concerned. Biodiversity conservation will be made more effective by involving local efforts and local stakeholders in regional activities. Cooperation in the context of the Kingdom of the Netherlands The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) links the countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In order to coordinate the sustainable management of this extensive marine area, a management plan was put in place, parts of which have already been implemented by the Netherlands and the Caribbean Netherlands. The parties now strive to have the Aruba St. Maarten and Curacao join in. A common approach is also sought for other nature policy aspects. Regional cooperation In addition to participation in official regional treaties, the Netherlands also seeks cooperation with neighbouring countries such as France, Saint Kitts and Nevis, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, the Dominican Republic and Venezuela, in particular where research and conservation of marine mammals and sharks is concerned. The aim is to designate a marine mammal sanctuary in the waters of the Dutch Caribbean in order to protect them. European initiatives Over the past few years the European Union has paid more attention to nature in the overseas and ultra-peripheral territories of Europe. The possibilities for more cooperation with the EU will be investigated. Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 18 19 Photo: SHAPE. Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 1 National Government The Minister of Economic Affairs has an annual budget of some € 1.1 million for nature conservation and management in the Caribbean Netherlands, of which € 0.5 million is earmarked for research, monitoring and reporting and for the implementation of the National Government’s tasks concerning agriculture and fisheries. Every year the islands’ governing bodies receive a contribution from the BES fund set aside for tasks that include nature management. The costs for the implementation of nature management are estimated at a minimum € 0.8 million a year. The governing bodies decide how the resources from the BES fund are to be spent. The Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) annually receives € 1 million from the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, € 750.000 of which is deposited directly in the DCNA trust fund, and the remainder is used for direct support of nature conservation. D | Resources Nature projectsIn February 2013 the National Government granted a one-off amount of € 7.5 million for nature projects in the Caribbean Netherlands to fund overdue maintenance of nature on the islands. The projects will be implemented over the 2013-2016 period. The islands governing bodies were asked to propose concrete projects geared around the following themes: • Preservation of coral, in particular by erosion prevention; • Improving the sustainable use of nature, for example by improving accessibility and/or • Improving the synergy between nature, land use (agriculture) and tourism. The efficient and effective implementation of projects is key to the allocation of funds. Half of the amount to be allocated is divided into three equal shares, the other half of the amount is apportioned according to the number of inhabitants.1 Under the Financial Act BES [Wet Financiën BES] a regulation will be drawn up for the funding, implementation and division of roles and responsibilities between the National Government in The Hague (Ministry of Economic Affairs) and the islands’ governing bodies. The responsibility for the decision-making, funding, monitoring and promotion of the projects lies with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, whereas the islands’ governing bodies are responsible for developing, presenting and implementing the projects. 2 Local Most of the funding available for nature management in the Caribbean Netherlands is generated by user fees. The amounts diverge widely from one island to the other. On Bonaire, national parks generate 85% of their total budget for nature management by means of user fees, on Saba 53%, and on St. Eustatius 14%. The differences are caused by tourist numbers coming to the islands. Part of the exploitation costs of the designated protected areas is covered by subsidies from the islands’ governing bodies (Bonaire 4%, Saba 17%, and St. Eustatius 48%). The National Government, in The Hague in partnership with the islands’ governing bodies and local stakeholders, will carry out an exploratory study and put forward recommendations to ensure a sustainable financial future for the national parks. 2120 Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 2322 3 Donations Further financial support for the nature organisations in the Dutch Caribbean comes from private partners like the Dutch National Postcode Lottery, the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (Wereld Natuur Fonds) and the Dutch Society for the Protection of Birds (Vogelbescherming Nederland). Photo: Bonaire© DCNA - SHAPE. Photographer: Henkjan Kievit Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 24 25 1 Mainstreaming The goal of mainstreaming is to ensure that the goals of nature conservation and sustainable use are integrated into all sectors of government and society. Nature in the Caribbean Netherlands forms an integral part of the islands and is therefore inextricably bound to all social and economic sectors of society. The activities of these sectors not only influence biodiversity, but are themselves dependent on a series of goods and services produced by biologically productive ecosystems. Sectors like the economy, development, education, health, welfare, sport, arts and culture will benefit substantially from better integration of nature management into their thinking and planning processes. 2 Nature Management 2.1 Organisation Successful, sustainable nature conservation in the protected areas requires the following conditions: • clearly defined goals and objectives including management plans; • management driven research and monitoring programmes; E | Strategy and Goals • active communication, education and awareness programmes;• legal and policy support; • engagement of local community. 2.2 Protected areas The designation and legal protection of nature areas is a prerogative of each island’s governing body. The islands themselves decide which areas should be protected. Their decision-making must be led by the criteria described in international treaties and conventions such as SPAW, Ramsar and the CBD. It is important that a comprehensive system of protected areas is put in place, with specific types of management to ensure conservation of biological diversity, taking into account size and connectivity to avoid the isolation of species in areas that are too small to ensure their survival. Below, the various types of protected areas are discussed, according to international or regional agreements, or national or local designation. Internationally protected areas UNESCO World Heritage Sites In 2011, at the request of Saba, Bonaire and Curaçao, the Netherlands placed three potential sites in the Dutch Caribbean on its provisional list of 11 sites to be nominated to the World Heritage Committee (WHC) for inclusion as world heritage site. These are West-Curaçao’s plantation area, the Bonaire Marine Park and the island of Saba as a whole. Comparative analysis will be carried out between 2011 and 2014 for all the sites on the provisional list. On the basis of the results, a decision will be made on whether to continue with the nomination, and the order of nominations. The final nominations will depend on compliance with the UNESCO criteria, the capacity of the island to guarantee efficient management and conservation, and local support for conservation and nomination from the islands’ governing bodies and population. For each site that will ultimately be admitted, an extensive nomination dossier will have to be drawn up. It is the responsibility of the island involved to draw up the nomination dossier. The Minister of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) will coordinate this process and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (EZ) will facilitate it. Ramsar-sites Five Ramsar sites have been designated on Bonaire: Slagbaai, Gotomeer, Klein Bonaire, Pekelmeer and Lac. Because the islands themselves decide which areas they wish to designate as protected area, under the Wet Grondslagen natuurbeheer en- bescherming BES, they themselves are also responsible for the management of the area according to the prevailing international standards. However, if an island is not able to meet the Ramsar standard, it may request assistance from the Minister. Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 26 27 The Ministry of Economic Affairs will provide support for the evaluation and management of various Ramsar sites on Bonaire, and where necessary it will assist in developing management plans and their implementation. The Ministry will also investigate how to give the Ramsar areas a higher profile and evaluate with the islands whether specific regulation is necessary to comply with the Ramsar Convention. In the Dutch Caribbean, Aruba and Curaçao also have Ramsar sites. The Ramsar Convention requires that each member state draws up an inventory of its wetland areas. This inventory has never been carried out for the Dutch Caribbean islands, but will be carried out for the Caribbean Netherlands within the framework of this policy plan. SPAW areas The critera and procedure for placing Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife on the SPAW protocol list were only recently established by the parties. At present, The Quill/Boven National Park, the St. Eustatius National Marine Park and the Bonaire National Marine Park have been included on the list. Any other protected areas that are given National Park status during this planning period will also be nominated. Nationally protected areas Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Based on the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS, 1982) an Exclusive Economic Zone is a maritime zone over which a state has sovereign rights for the exploration and use of marine resources. It is the responsibility of the nation to establish the borders of an EEZ and for the Dutch Caribbean this was done in June 2010. Management authority of the EEZ can be transferred by the Kingdom to the individual islands or countries [Besluit grenzen exclusieve economische zone van Aruba en de Nederlandse Antillen, Stb. 2010, 277)]. In order to manage this large marine area effectively, an EEZ management plan was developed in consultation with each of the other countries within the Kingdom, titled ‘Management Plan for the natural resources of the EEZ of the Dutch Caribbean’ (IMARES, 2010). Between Aruba, Curaçao, St. Maarten, the Netherlands, Bonaire, Saba, and St. Eustatius a Memorandum of Agreement was drawn up for the implementation of this plan that has been signed so far by all parties except Aruba and St. Maarten. Implementation will be led by a dedicated committee for marine biodiversity and fisheries; the EEZ committee. This management plan not only includes all the EEZ waters, but also the territorial waters outside the borders of the marine parks around the islands. The National Government will: • coordinate the implementation of the EEZ management plan for natural resources in the EEZ for the Dutch Caribbean; • guarantee active management of the EEZ for the Dutch Caribbean by developing mutually agreed common policy approach; • ensure continuous involvement of interested parties in the development and implementation of the management plan; • develop an integrated research and monitoring plan, in cooperation with the partners of the EEZ committee, based on national and international commitments, the different competences of signatories and other parties, and on the possibility of using local capacity. Marine mammal reserve One of the points for action agreed in the EEZ management plan for the Caribbean waters of the Kingdom of the Netherlands is the designation of these waters as a reserve for marine mammals, in close collaboration with comparable initiatives in surrounding countries, such as the French ‘Agoa’ reserve. In order to establish a well-managed reserve for marine mammals, the Ministry of Economic Affairs commits to the following action points: • ensure legal designation of the EEZ as a Marine Mammal Reserve; establish legal guidelines for interacting with cetaceans (e.g. whale-watching); • establish collaborative bonds with sister sanctuaries in the region (France, United States of America, Dominican Republic), e.g. a regional information network for strandings and sightings; • conduct baseline quantitative surveys of cetacean distribution and densities and assess sources of potentially harmful sounds and the risks of vessel strikes; management evaluations every five years to ascertain the mammal status and conservation progress; • develop species action plans (e.g. Humpback Whale and sharks ). National parks In the Caribbean Netherlands the following national parks have been designated: Bonaire: Bonaire National Marine Park Saba: Saba National Marine Park Saba Bank National Park St. Eustatius: St. Eustatius National Marine Park St. Eustatius Quill/Boven National Park Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 2928 The management of these National Parks is based on management plans written using a template developed by DCNA and peer-reviewed by the World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA). Locally protected areas The following maps show the locations of the designated protected areas on the island of the Dutch Caribbean. Saba parken ± 0 1 20.5 Kilometers Legenda Onderwaterpark Landpark Bron: Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Data (DCBD), 2013 Mt. Scenery Hell's gate Windwardside The bottom Saba St.Eustatius parken ± 0 1 20.5 Kilometers Legenda Onderwaterpark Landpark Bron: Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Data (DCBD), 2013 Boven National Park Quill National Park Signal hill Oranjestad St. Eustatius Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 30 31 Bonaire parken ± 0 4 82 Kilometers Legenda Onderwaterpark Landpark Bron: Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Data (DCBD), 2013 Washington Slagbaai National Park Kralendijk Rincon Klein Bonaire Lac Bay Bonaire 2.3 Protected species Of all the species occurring on the islands, 51 appear on the IUCN Red List of threatened species as ‘critically endangered (CR), ‘endangered (EN) or ‘vulnerable’ (VU). This list is generally recognised as the most extensive and objective global approach to the evaluation of the protection status of plant and animal species, on the basis of strict scientific criteria. It forms the basis for identifying the species that require protection, both locally and internationally, when species occur in more than one country. Internationally protected species Species that occur in more than one country and are under threat globally are protected by international agreements such as CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), the Inter-American Convention for the Protection and Conservation of Marine Turtles (IAS), the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) and the regional SPAW protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife. The species named in these international agreements must be protected, usually according to specific measures, as stated in the corresponding convention. Appendix 2 contains a list of the internationally protected species that occur on the islands of the Dutch Caribbean, their status on the IUCN Red List and their specific protection status on the basis of the various conventions. The islands’ Red Lists Some species that are not considered to be threatened elsewhere, could be under threat locally on one of the islands. Each island must identify these species and decide on protective measures and so make an island specific Red List. It is necessary to identify these species to effectively protect the island’s biodiversity. If necessary the Minister will support the formulation of island specific Red Lists. 2.4 Management instruments Island nature policy plans The governing body of each island draws up an island specific nature policy plan. This should provide a sound, detailed framework for nature conservation. In addition to maps of the protected areas and nature conservation objectives, the island specific nature policy plans should also contain lists of protected species and a management plan for nature outside the protected areas. Additionally, the following themes could also be considered in the plans: • Development of mitigation, restoration and compensation guidelines for spatial development; Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 3332 • Evaluation of the need to amend existing national and local legislation; • Development of guidelines for the integration of local nature and nature conservation into the school curricula; • Development of guidelines for the creation, use and management of green areas and recreational areas to improve community wellbeing; • Provision of guidelines to optimise public health and community wellbeing through nature and nature conservation in the Caribbean, for example in line with the global model ‘Healthy Parks, Healthy People’; • Designation of at least 30% of protected marine areas as ‘no take’ zones; • Development of guidelines for the establishment of buffer zones and corridors to optimise management and conservation of legally protected areas and areas of high conservation value; • Addressing land tenure, ownership and access issues affecting protected areas: • Identification of areas that are not designated as conservation areas yet contain habitats and/or species of high conservation value; • Development of an integrated plan to strengthen nature education; • Development of guidelines to address the (potential) threats from invasive species; • Development of guidelines and management plans to address serious anthropogenic threats to nature focusing on legally protected areas and species; • Evaluation and addressing issues concerning enforcement capacity on the islands in the field of environmental and nature legislation. Management plans for protected areas Most nature parks in the Caribbean Netherlands have management plans. Where these are not in place, they will have to be developed, as will the capacity to enable these manage ment plans to be implemented. The island’s governing body, together with the managing NGO, are responsible for the management plan. Management plans for protected species Species under international protection must be managed and monitored. Some NGOs are dedicated to the protection of specific species; Echo and Fundashon ‘Salba nos Lora’ for instance, work towards the protection of Bonaire’s endemic parrot, the ‘lora’, and Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire is committed to the protection of Bonaire sea turtles throug hout their range. Threatened species in protected areas will be protected under the management plans in place. For protection here to be successful, it is crucial that the various organisations cooperate and communicate well with each other as well as with the governing bodies. When deemed necessary the parties involved can draw up their own management plans. The Ministry of Economic Affairs will encourage and facilitate this process if need be. Communication, education and awareness The management of protected areas can only be successful if people now and in the future are aware of its value. People will profit from the conservation of the nature around them and their awareness and understanding of nature and its benefits will motivate them to promote and support the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. An integrated plan to improve nature education and raise people’s awareness of nature will be drawn up and a communication strategy will be put in place to inform the Dutch public, the islands’ inhabitants, stakeholders, policy-makers and visitors to the islands about the value and vulnerability of nature on the islands. Restoration Although most of the natural ecosystems in the Dutch Caribbean are entirely self-sustai ning, many have been depleted and most have undergone profound changes over the past centuries. Criteria will be developed to evaluate the need for ecosystem enhancement and/ or restoration. 3 Strategic Goals and Actions 3.1 Mainstreaming Ensuring that the goals of nature conservation and sustainable use are integrated into all sectors of society. International: S1 Promote international cooperation through active participation in international, regional and bilateral initiatives relevant to nature conservation. S2 Stimulate cooperation with Aruba, Curaçao and St. Maarten in promoting nature conservation policy, for instance by the implementation of cooperation agreements. S3 Promote international cooperation and agreements for common management policies with countries and territories bordering the Exclusive Economic Zone. S4 Integrate the support for nature conservation in the policy and action plans of the Kingdom’s Coast Guard in the Caribbean. S5 Ensure SPAW recognition of all protected areas in the Caribbean Netherlands. Economic: S6 Evaluate the financial instruments available for nature management in the Caribbean Netherlands and make recommendations aimed at ensuring a sustainable financial future for the region. S7 Develop criteria for the designation, good governance and reporting requirements of national parks. S8 Designate eligible protected areas in the Caribbean Netherlands as national parks. S9 Develop guidelines and incentives for innovation relevant for the Caribbean Netherlands in the field of sustainable development and sustainable living for a positive effect on nature. S10 Develop and implement guidelines for the sustainable use of biodiversity in line with Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 34 35 international agreements (CBD-Access and Benefit Sharing). S11 Promote relevant guidelines and best practices for sustainable agriculture. S12 Promote relevant guidelines and best practices for sustainable fisheries. S13 Establish a nature commission to advise the Minister and the island’s governing bodies on measures relevant to the implementation of the present Nature Policy Plan and the Wet grondslagen natuurbeheer en -bescherming BES. Legal: S14 Review and assess current national and local nature conservation legislation in order to: 1 Define shortcomings and obstacles for the adequate implementation of international nature conservation requirements to ensure the protection of species and habitats under international legal protection; 2 Propose adaptations and additions necessary to realise the goals set in the present Nature Policy Plan and in the islands’ nature policy plans. S15 Review and assess possibilities to create a synergy between the realisation of nature conservation objectives and public policy on spatial planning, and environmental and maritime management, for example by making more efficient use of the relevant legal instruments concerning those policy areas. S16 Review and assess the implementation of the SPAW protocol. S17 Ensure implementation of CITES legislation as referred to in the Wet grondslagen natuurbeheer en -bescherming BES and national regulation on the implementation of CITES. 3.2 Nature management Biodiversity conservation is optimised through planning and management focused on appropriate areas and species. Management of protected areas and species: S18 Coordinate joint management of the EEZ by all Caribbean entities within the Kingdom. S19 Implement the EEZ management plan with a focus on the Saba Bank. S20 Establish a sanctuary for marine mammals and sharks within the Exclusive Economic Zone. S21 Ensure the active management and protection of the Saba Bank as Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) and national park within the Exclusive Economic Zone. S22 Develop an instrument for marine spatial planning for the management of the EEZ waters in the context of the joint management of the EEZ by all Caribbean entities within the Kingdom. S23 Evaluate the management of the Ramsar sites and make an inventory of all wetlands in the Caribbean Netherlands. Research and monitoring: S24 Develop and implement a biodiversity monitoring strategy including the establishment of an appropriate system for governance, stakeholder involvement, communication and outreach for the Caribbean Netherlands. S25 Conduct broad analyses of the threats to nature on the islands to be used to guide monitoring focus. S26 Develop and populate a database with biodiversity related data for the Caribbean Netherlands. S27 Develop a common research agenda for the Caribbean Netherlands. S28 (As part of the nature commission:) coordinate biodiversity research, monitoring and data management and organise the outreach thereof. S29 Conduct thorough baseline mapping (physical and biological) of the Saba Bank for monitoring and reporting purposes. S30 Conduct thorough baseline mapping (biological) of national parks and protected areas for monitoring and reporting purposes. Communication, education and awareness: S31 Develop and implement a communication strategy to inform the Dutch public, the islands’ inhabitants, stakeholders, policymakers and visitors to the islands about the value and vulnerability of nature on the islands. Restoration and/or improvement of degraded ecosystems: S32 Develop criteria to evaluate the need for ecosystem improvement and/or restoration. Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 3736 Appendices | Photo: © DCNA - SHAPE. Photographer: Rostislav Stach Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 3938 Appendix 1 | Internationally protected species common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix PLANTS All Cactaceae All Cacti Alle cactussen II All Orchidaceae All Orchids orkidea orchideeen II Syringodium filiforme Manatee grass zeegras LC 3 Thalassia testudinum Turtlegrass yerba di kaña zeegras LC 3 Halophila baillonis Tapegrass zeegras VU 3 Halophila decipiens Tapegrass zeegras LC 3 Halophila engelmannii Tapegrass zeegras NT 3 Ruppia maritima Wigeongrass snavelruppia LC 3 Rhizophora mangle Red mangrove mangel tam Rode mangrove LC 3 Avicennia germinans (= nitida) Black mangrove mangel blanku Zwarte mangrove LC 3 Laguncularia racemosa White mangrove mangel blanku Witte mangrove LC 3 Conocarpus erecta Buttonwood mangel blanku LC 3 Guaiacum officinale Common lignum vitae wayaká Pokhout EN 3 II Guaiacum sanctum Holywood lignum vitae wayaká shimaron Pokhout EN II Nectandra krugii Black sweet wood EN Swietenia mahagoni West Indian mahogany West-indische mahonie EN Zanthoxylum flavum West Indian Satinwood kalabari VU CORALS All Milleporidae All Fire corals brandkoralen 3 II All Stylasteridae All Lace corals kantkoralen 3 II All Antipatharia All Black corals Zwart koralen 3 II All Gorgonacea All Gorgonians hoornkoralen 3 All Scleractinia All Hard corals steenkoralen 3 II Acropora palmata Elkhorn coral Elandgewei koraal CR 3 II Acropora cervicornis Staghorn coral Hertshoorn kokraal CR 3 II Agaricia lamarcki Lamarck's Sheet coral Lamarck’s plaatkoraal VU 3 II Agaricia tenuifolia Thin Leaf Lettuce Coral Dun bladkoraal NT 3 II Dendrogyra cylindrus Pillar coral Pilaarkoraal VU 3 II Dichocoenia stokesi Elliptical star coral Elliptisch sterkoraal VU 3 II Montastrea franksi Bumpy star coral Bobbelig sterkoraal VU 3 II Montastrea annularis Head star coral Kinderhoofdjes koraal EN 3 II Montastrea faveolata Boulder starcoral Pagodekoraal EN 3 II CORALS Mycetophyllia ferox Rough cactus coral Ruw cactuskoraal VU 3 II Millepora striata Bladed box firecoral Brandkoraal VU 3 II Oculina varicosa Large ivory coral Ivoorkoraal VU 3 II common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 40 41 OTHER INVERTEBRATES Lobatus gigas Queen Conch karkó Kroonslak – 3 II Typhlatya monae Mona cave shrimp Mona grottengarnaal VU Panulirus argus Caribbean Spiny Lobster kref Caribische langoest DD 3 FISHES Pristis pectinata Wide Sawfish zaagvis EN I Manta birostris Manta Ray manta reuzenmanta VU 1,2 II Aetobatus narinari Spotted Eagle Ray chuchu aguila Gevlekte adelaarsrog NT Rhincodon typus Whale shark tribon bayena Walvishaai VU 2 II Carcharodon carcharias Great White Shark Witte haai VU 1, 2 II Alopias vulpinus Thresher shark Voshaai VU Isurus oxyrinchus Shortfin mako tribon mulá Kortvin makreelhaai VU 2 Isurus paucus Longfin mako Langvin makreelhaai VU 2 Sphyrna mokarran Great hammer head shark tribon martin Grote Hamerhaai EN II Sphyrna lewini Scalloped hammerhead Tribon martin Geschulpte hamerhaai EN II Sphyrna zigaena Smooth hammerhead Tribon martin Gladde hamerhaai VU II Carcharhinus longimanus Oceanic whitetip shark Witpunthaai VU II Carcharhinus perezi Caribbean Reef Shark Caribische rifhaai NT Hippocampus reidi Slender Seahorse Kabai di awa zeepaardje DD II Hippocampus erectus Lined Seahorse Kabai di awa zeepaardje VU II Dermatolepis inermis Marble grouper hokfes pretu Gemarmerde zeebaars NT Epinephelus flavolimbatus Yellowedge grouper VU Epinephelus itajara Goliath grouper djukfes Reuzenzeebaars CR Epinephelus morio Red Grouper Rode Zeebaars NT Epinephelus niveatus Snowy grouper/ spotted grouper Gevlekte zeebaars VU Epinephelus striatus Nassau grouper jakupepu Nassaubaars EN Balistes vetula Queen triggerfish psihi porko rab'i gai Koningin Trekkervis VU Lachnolaimus maximus Hogfish Zwijnsvis VU Lutjanus analis Mutton snapper Schaapssnapper VU Lutjanus cyanopterus Cubera snapper Cubera Snapper VU Mycteroperca bonaci Black Grouper Olito Zwarte zeebaars NT Mycteroperca interstitialis Yellowmouth grouper Geelbekbaars VU Mycteroperca venenosa Yellowfin Grouper Olito Geelvinbaars NT Pagrus pagrus Red porgy Rode zeebrasem EN Scarus guacamaia Rainbow parrotfish Regenboog papegaaivis VU Thunnus obesus Bigeye tuna Buní Grootoogtonijn VU Thunnus thynnus Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Buní Blauwvintonijn EN Thunnus alalunga Albacore Tuna Buní Witte tonijn NT Thunnus albacares Yellowfin Tuna Buní Geelvintonijn NT Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix 4342 43 MAMMALS Marine mammals All Cetaceans Alle walvis achtigen 2 II Tursiops truncatus Bottlenose Dolphin Toníu Tuimelaar LC 2 II Lagenodelphis hosei Fraser's Dolphin Sarawakdolfijn LC 2 II Delphinus delphis Common Dolphin Toníu Gewone dolfijn LC 2 II Stenella attenuata Pantropical Spotted Dolphin Toníu Slanke dolfijn LC 2 II Stenella frontalis Atlantic Spotted Dolphin Atlantische vlekdolfijn DD 2 II Stenella longirostris Spinner Dolphin Toniwa Langsnuitdolfijn DD 2 II Stenella coeruleoalba Striped Dolphin Gestreepte dolfijn LC 2 II Stenella clymene Clymene Dolphin Clymenedolfijn DD 2 II Grampus griseus Risso's Dolphin/ Grey Dolphin Gramper LC 2 II Ziphius cavirostris Cuvier's Whale Dolfijn van Cuvier LC 2 II Mesoplodon europaeus Gervais's Beaked Whale Spitssnuitdolfijn van Gervais DD 2 II Pseudorca crassidens False Killer Whale Zwarte zwaardwalvis DD 2 II Orcinus orca Orca - Killer Whale Orka DD 2 2 II Kogia breviceps Pygmy Sperm Whale Dwergpotvis DD 2 II Kogia simus Dwarf Sperm Whale Kleinste potvis DD 2 II Peponocephala electra Melon-headed Whale Witlipdolfijn LC 2 II Globicephala macrorhynchus Shortfin Pilot Whale Kabe'i keshi Indische Griend DD 2 II Balaenoptera physalus Fin whale bayena Gewone vinvis EN 2 1 I Balaenoptera borealis Coalfish whale bayena Noordse vinvis EN 2 1 I Balaenoptera edeni Bryde's Whale topo Edens vinvis DD 2 2 I Balaenoptera musculus Blue whale bayena Blauwe vinvis EN 2 1 I Megaptera novaeangliae Humpback whale bayena Bultrugwalvis VU 2 1 I Physeter macrocephalus Sperm whale kachalote Potvis VU 2 1 I Trichechus manatus West-indian manatee Westindische zeekoe VU 2 I RODENTIA Calomys hummelincki Hummelinck's vesper mouse Hummelinck's Vesper Muis VU BATS Leptonycteris curasoae Lesser long-nosed bat Curaçaose bladneusvleer muis VU Tadarida brasiliensis Mexican free-tailed bat Guanovleermuis LC 2 1 BIRDS Sarkidiornis melanotos Comb Duck Knobbeleend LC 2 II Buteo albicaudatus White-tailed Hawk Falki Witstaartbuizerd LC II Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed Hawk Roodstaart buizerd LC II Pandion haliaetus Osprey Gabilan piskadó Visarend LC 2 II Caracara cheriway Northern Caracara Warawara Caracara LC 2 II Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon Slechtvalk LC 2 2 I Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix 44 45 Falco sparverius American Kestrel Kinikini Amerikaanse torenvalk LC 2 II Falco columbarius Merlin Kinikini grandi Smelleken LC 2 II Tyto alba Barn Owl Palabrua Kerkuil LC II Chrysolampis mosquitus Ruby-topaz Hummingbird Blenchi tornasol Rode kolibrie LC II Chorostilbon mellisugus Blue-tailed Emerald Blenchi Groene kolibrie – II Eulampis jugularis Purple-throated Carib Granaatkolibrie LC II Sericotes holocericeus Green-throated Carib Groenkeel kolibrie – II Orthorhyncus cristatus Antillean Crested Hummingbird Antilliaanse Kuifkolibrie LC II Cinclocerthia ruficauda Brown Trembler Sidderspotlijster LC 2 Aratinga pertinax Brown-throated Conure Prikichi West-indische parkiet LC II Amazona barbadenis Yellow-shoulde red amazon lora Geelvleugel amazone VU 2 I Charadrius melodus Piping Plover Dwergplevier NT 2 Contopus cooperi Olive-sided Flycatcher Sparrenpiewie NT Dendrocygna arborea West Indian whistling duck patu West-Indische Fluiteend VU 3 2 Dendrocygna bicolor Fulvous Whistling-duck patu Rosse fluiteend LC 3 2 Dendroica cerulea Cerulean warbler Azuurblauwe Zanger VU Fulica caribaea Caribbean Coot Caribische meerkoet NT Phoenicopterus ruber Flamingo Chogogo Caribische Flamingo LC 3 2 II Pterodroma hasitata Black-capped petrel Zwartkapstorm vogel EN Puffinus lherminieri Audubon’s Shearwater Wedrego Audubon’s pijlstormvogel LC 2 Pelecanus occidentalis Pelican Bruine Pelikaan LC 2 Sterna antillarum antillarum Least Tern Dwergstern LC Sterna dougallii dougallii Roseate Tern Dougalls stern LC 2 2 REPTILES Snakes Alsophis rijersmai Leeward islands racer grasslang EN Alsophis rufiventrus Red-bellied racer Roodbuik grasslang EN Iguanas Iguana delicatissima Lesser Antillean Iguana Antillenleguaan EN 3 II Iguana iguana Green Iguana Yuana Groene leguaan - 3 II Sea turtles Chelonia mydas Green Turtle tortuga blanku soepschildpad EN 2 2 I Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill Turtle karèt karetschildpad CR 2 2 I Caretta caretta Loggerhead Turtle kawama onechte karetschildpad EN 2 2 I Lepidochelys olivacea Olive Ridley tortuga bastiá Warana EN 2 2 I Dermochelys coriacea Leatherback Turtle drikil lederschildpad CR 2 2 I INSECTS Danaus plexippus Monarch butterfly Amerikaanse monarch 2 Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix common name local name Dutch name IUCN Category SPA W Annex CMS Annex CITES Appendix Natuurbeleidsplan Caribisch Nederland 2013 - 2017 46 47 Photo: SHAPE Photo: SHAPE Photo: SHAPEPhoto: SHAPE Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 4948 Appendix 2 | List of international treaties and conventions applicable to the Caribbean Netherlands Convention on Biological Diversity; Brazil, 5 June 1992 The objectives of this Convention are the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilisation of genetic resources. Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES); March 1973, Washington, USA CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. International trade is regulated via a system of permits. Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat; Ramsar (Iran), 2 February 1971 The Convention’s mission is “the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world”. Bonaire has five designated Ramsar sites The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals; Bonn, 23 June 1979 The Convention (also known as CMS or Bonn Convention) aims to conserve terrestrial, aquatic and avian migratory species throughout their range. Migratory species threatened with extinction are listed in Appendix I of the Convention. CMS Parties strive towards strictly protecting these migratory species that need or would significantly benefit from international co-operation are listed in Appendix II of the Convention. For this reason, the Convention encourages the Range States to conclude global or regional Agreements. The Migratory Shark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) The Shark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has the objective to ensure the conservation and management of migratory sharks and their long-term sustainable use. Cartagena Convention The Cartagena Convention was adopted in Cartagena, Colombia on 24 March 1983 and entered into force on 11 October 1986. The Convention is supplemented by three protocols: • Oil Spills Protocol The objective is to strengthen national and regional preparedness to prevent and control major oil spill incidents • Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife Protocol (SPAW) The objective is to protect rare and fragile ecosystems and species. • Land Based Sources and activities Protocol (LBS) The objective is to prevent pollution of the sea from land-based sources. Inter-American Sea Turtle Convention (IAC) Caracas, Venezuela, December 1 1996. The Convention aims to promote the protection, conservation and recovery of sea turtle populations and of the habitats on which they depend. International Whaling Convention IWRC, Washington DC, December 2, 1946 The Convention aims to promote the conservation of whale stocks and the sustainable development of the whaling industry. UNESCO World Heritage Convention, Paris, 23 November 1972. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 50 5151 Foto: SHAPE Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 52 53 Appendix 3 | List of acronyms BES Bijzondere eilandstatus (Special Island Status) (Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, Saba) BZK Ministerie van Binnenlandse Zaken en Koninkrijksrelaties (Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations) CBD Convention on Biological Diversity CITES Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species CMS Convention on the protection of Migratory Species of Wild Animals DCNA Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance DROB Dienst Ruimtelijke Ordening en Beheer [Dept. of Spatial Planning and Development] EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPP Environmental Policy Plan EZ Ministerie van Economische Zaken (Ministry of Economic Affairs) GCRMN Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network GDP Gross Domestic Product I&M Ministerie van Infrastructuur en Milieu (Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment) IAC Inter-American Convention for the protection and conservation of Sea Turtles IAS Invasive Alien Species IBA Important Bird Area ICRI International Coral Reef Initiative ICRW International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling IMARES Institute of Marine Research and Ecosystem Studies IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature IWC International Whaling Commission LVV Dienst Landbouw, Veeteelt en Visserij (Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries) MNB Afdeling Milieu- en NatuurBeheer [Dept. Of Environmental and Nature Management] MPA Marine Protected Area NACRI Netherlands Antilles Coral Reef Initiative NGO Non-Governmental Organisation NPP Nature Policy Plan OAS Organisation of American States RAC Regional Activity Center under the Cartagena Convention RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands of International Importance RCN Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland (National Office for the Caribbean Netherlands) RFMO Regional Fisheries Management Organisation RRAP Rapid Regional Assessment Programme SCF Saba Conservation Foundation SIDS Small Island Developing States SPAW Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife STENAPA St. Eustatius National Parks STINAPA Stiching Nationale Parken (Bonaire Bonaire National Parks Foundation) TED Turtle Excluder Device TEEB The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity UNCLOS United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme UNESCO United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation WCPA World Commission on Protected Areas WHMSI Western Hemisphere Migratory Species Initiative WNF Wereld Natuur Fonds (Worldwide Fund for Nature) WWF World Wildlife Fund Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 5554 Photo: DCNA - SHAPE. Photographer: Marjolijn Lopes Cardozo Nature Policy Plan The Caribbean Netherlands 2013 - 2017 COLOPHON Publication Ministry of economic affairs Direction Nature and Biodiversity Layout and design DB Huisstijlmedia Graphic design Zeevonk grafisch ontwerp | fotografie, Den Haag Print Vijfkeerblauw, Rijswijk Edition 200 pieces April 2013, Den Haag Photo: St. Eustatius © DCNA - SHAPE. Photographer: Rostislav Stach