The eco-restoration of Redonda Island, a tiny Caribbean island, has captivated environmentalists around the globe. From a desolate rock to a thriving wildlife haven, the island’s remarkable metamorphosis has garnered international recognition. Recently, the government of Antigua and Barbuda officially designated Redonda Island as a protected area, securing its vital role as a nesting site for migrating birds and a sanctuary for unique species found nowhere else on Earth. This significant achievement highlights the island’s immense biodiversity, including endangered species, globally important seabird colonies, and endemic lizards.
The Redonda Ecosystem Reserve encompasses not only the island itself but also surrounding seagrass meadows and a coral reef, covering an impressive 30,000 hectares (74,000 acres). This feat has propelled Antigua and Barbuda to meet the “30×30” target, a global objective to protect 30% of the planet for nature by 2030. The restoration of Redonda Island involved eradicating invasive black rats that preyed on reptiles and consumed bird eggs, as well as relocating goats introduced by early colonists that devastated the island’s vegetation. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of local NGOs, the government, and international partners, the once barren moonscape of Redonda Island has transformed into a lush, thriving ecosystem teeming with native flora and fauna.
The Environmental Awareness Group (EAG), a local NGO, played a pivotal role in spearheading the project alongside partners like Fauna and Flora International (FFI). The EAG’s executive director, Arica Hill, emphasizes the significance of Redonda Island’s new protected status, deeming it a “huge win for Antiguans and Barbudans.” What sets this marine protected area apart is its establishment as the largest in the Eastern Caribbean, showcasing the impactful work that conservationists and environmentalists can achieve domestically. Hill also highlights the government’s trust in local organizations to manage the protected area effectively.
In addition to the conservation efforts already undertaken, the EAG aims to reintroduce species that once inhabited Redonda Island, such as the burrowing owl. Feasibility studies are underway to assess the potential success of these reintroductions. To ensure the island remains free of invasive species, the EAG is implementing a robust governance system, including the use of surveillance cameras to monitor for errant rats and strict guidelines for local fishing activities.
Jenny Daltry of FFI stresses the critical importance of coastal islands like Redonda in the face of alarming extinction rates. Caribbean islands currently experience some of the highest extinction rates in modern history. Redonda Island’s restoration and subsequent protection serve as a beacon of hope amidst the environmental challenges faced by small developing islands like Antigua and Barbuda. The return of 15 species of land birds and the exponential increase in populations of endemic lizards indicate the positive impact of the conservation efforts thus far.
The local residents, once dubbing Redonda Island as “the rock,” have transformed into ardent protectors of the newly restored ecosystem. Shanna Challenger of the EAG highlights the outpouring of national pride and personal significance among the Antiguan and Barbudan population. This monumental achievement ensures that their contribution will be forever etched into Redonda Island’s history.
Redonda Island’s success story speaks volumes to the rest of the world, exemplifying the feasibility of achieving conservation targets. Despite being among the least significant emitters of greenhouse gases globally, Antigua and Barbuda has exceeded its “30×30” goal ahead of schedule, underscoring its commitment to combating climate change. Shanna emphasizes the inspiration this accomplishment provides to other countries, reiterating that if an island nation like Antigua and Barbuda can achieve this, others can too.
Johnella Bradshaw, the reserve’s coordinator, highlights the personal significance of these accomplishments. Growing up, pursuing a career in the environmental field was unheard of, with societal emphasis on more traditional paths. However, with Redonda Island at the forefront of international conservation efforts, Johnella hopes to change the narrative and inspire younger generations, particularly those who share her identity, to believe in their potential to contribute to environmental preservation.
Despite these remarkable achievements, Johnella is adamant that the protected status must extend beyond paper and manifest in practical, tangible actions. As a country deeply affected by climate change, experiencing devastating hurricanes and rising temperatures, Antigua and Barbuda recognizes the urgent need for collective action. Johnella appeals to individuals worldwide to play their part in making a difference and safeguarding vulnerable ecosystems like Redonda Island.
The incredible transformation of Redonda Island serves as a testament to the power of collaboration, showcasing that even the smallest islands can achieve remarkable conservation goals. As the world battles against climate change, Redonda Island stands as a symbol of hope and resilience, inspiring nations to prioritize environmental preservation and work together for a sustainable future.
