On March 1st, we celebrate World Seagrass Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of seagrasses and the need to conserve them.
Seagrasses are underwater plants that grow in coastal waters around the world, including in Aruba. They play a crucial role in the health of our oceans and offer many benefits. The Department of Nature and Environment (DNM) published last year all the types of seagrasses that are protected according to our local laws, the National Decree for the Protection of Indigenous Flora and Fauna (AB 2017 no.48). We also informed about the invasive types of seagrass. On the occasion of World Seagrass Day 2024, we focus on the benefits of preserving seagrasses.
Biodiversity: Seagrasses provide food and protection for a wide variety of marine life, including fish, crabs, sea turtles, and marine mammals. They serve as areas where species go when they need rehabilitation, and they are the places where small fish and other species hide to grow. Thus, seagrasses contribute to the health of the entire food chain.
Climate Change: Seagrasses store carbon in the soil, helping to reduce the effects of climate change on people and the world. One hectare of seagrass can store as much carbon as a large forest.
Coastal Protection: Seagrasses minimize the force of waves and ocean currents during storms, thus protecting coastlines from erosion. They also play an important role in water filtration and reduce the risk of water pollution.
In addition to their importance, seagrasses are globally threatened by human activities such as coastal area pollution, development in and near the sea, and climate change. It is estimated that more than 30% of the global seagrass area has disappeared since 1930.
World Seagrass Day is an occasion to raise awareness about the threats to seagrasses. We face challenges and take action to protect them. Everyone can contribute to their well-being and protection by:
Learning about seagrasses and their importance. Share information with friends, family, and colleagues.
Supporting organizations working to conserve seagrasses. Donate or become a volunteer for a local or international organization dedicated to seagrass protection or related issues such as sea turtle conservation.
Choosing sustainability. Reduce waste, use less water, and support businesses committed to environmental protection. Follow examples that promote sustainable development goals.
Educating others about the dangers of pollution and excessive development near coastlines. By raising awareness of the impact of their choices, we can contribute to a better future for seagrass areas and our oceans.
In the picture, you can see the species Thalassia testudinum, known in Papiamento as ‘Yerba di Caña’ and in English as ‘Turtle grass.’ It is so named because it is the favorite food of sea turtles. DNM urges users of the sea to be cautious. For those with boats, the propellers can cause damage by breaking these grasses and removing them from the sediment. People can also cause damage by pulling them out without reason. DNM encourages people to observe, take pictures, and share their experiences at sea, respecting our protected plants and valuable ecosystems.
Together, we can ensure that seagrasses continue to flourish and provide the various benefits they offer for future generations. The Department of Nature and Environment hopes that this press release will help increase awareness of World Seagrass Day 2024 and the need for conservation for the future.”
