In an era where land sustainability is paramount, it is important now more than ever to celebrate and acknowledge stewards who continue to play a significant role in the preservation and enhancement of land and soil; contributing to improved livelihoods and increased food and nutrition security in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (CSIDS).
The Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM), was pleased to recognise land heroes Trevor E Thompson, Shane Edwards and global partners the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) for their work which promotes the enhancement of soil quality and land productivity ensuring its resilience and sustainability.
During the 6th High Level Forum held in Grenada on 11 April, Grenada’s Former Chief Agriculture Officer and Chief Land Use Officer Trevor Thompson, was presented with the lifetime award, for his efforts that have led to healthier soils and more productive lands. Thompson served as the National Focal Point for Grenada to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), from 2015-2022 and also chaired several other organisations including the Global Environmental Facility Small Grants Programme and the Global Water Partnership Caribbean, organisations that have important roles in combating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and supporting communities dependent on agriculture and natural resources.
36-year-old Farmer Shane Edwards who employs regenerative agricultural practices that restore soil nutrients and reduce erosion and promote sustainable land use, was the recipient of the PISLM’s first Green Generation Award. The Grenadian farmer farms along with his brother Rick, on nearly 15 acres, cultivating a diverse array of crops year-round, including watermelons, tomatoes, pumpkins, corn, sweet potatoes, peppers, and cantaloupe, supplying produce to local supermarkets and vendors. Edwards has adopted sustainable farming methods like crop rotation, rainwater harvesting, integrated pest management, and climate-smart technologies to increase resilience against climate change impacts.
Edwards is also a member of the La Poterie Farmers Cooperative and enthusiastically shares knowledge, and innovative solutions with other farmers, and remains committed to his craft, inspiring others while supporting national food security.
The PISLM, also recognised the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, led by Dr Renata Clarke, for their support towards the development and implementation of the CSIDS-SOILCARE Phase 1 project, and successful development of the Project Identification Form for CSIDS-SOILCARE Phase 2 that will ensure all Caribbean SIDS are all brought to the level at which achievement of LDN becomes more achievable. The FAO is currently working with the PISLM to develop a Decision Support System and a Caribbean Soil Information System, 2 platforms that will support technical officers and policy makers within the Caribbean SIDS.
The Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Management (PISLM) congratulates all recipients on their achievements and believes that their accomplishments are a testament to what can be attained with passion and perseverance. Their dedication inspires us all to take action in our capacities and reaffirms the importance of caring for the land that sustains us from the very small actions to global movements
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