Environment Ministry reports progress in protecting oceans and coasts

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources highlighted the Dominican Republic’s progress in marine conservation and coastal ecosystem protection during activities held to commemorate World Oceans Day, including a beach cleanup campaign and a panel on sustainable ocean management.

As part of the initiative, the Vice Ministry of Coastal and Marine Resources organized a coastal cleanup at Fort San Gil in partnership with Ecopetróleo Dominicana. Held under the theme “Together for Cleaner Oceans,” the event brought together government personnel and partner organizations to remove waste from coastal areas, raise awareness about marine pollution, and encourage public participation in protecting marine ecosystems.

The ministry also hosted the panel “Advances in Marine Conservation in the Dominican Republic,” where experts discussed achievements in marine protected areas, species conservation, scientific monitoring, and efforts to strengthen the resilience of coastal ecosystems against climate change. Officials highlighted progress under the country’s marine conservation agenda, which aligns with international sustainability and biodiversity commitments.

Among the initiatives presented were marine turtle conservation programs, scientific research efforts, and the successful reintroduction of the manatee “Juan Pedro” into its natural habitat. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting oceans and coastal resources, emphasizing their importance to biodiversity, tourism, food security, and climate resilience in the Dominican Republic.