KRALENDIJK – In early May, the Junior Rangers of STINAPA Bonaire traveled to Klein Bonaire, where they planted 52 native trees as part of the ongoing efforts to restore the island’s nature. The activity was led by Elsmarie Beukenboom.
The tree planting is part of STINAPA’s BESTLIFE2030 project, an international programme supporting nature conservation and climate initiatives on islands such as Bonaire. Through this project, STINAPA is working towards four concrete goals:
Nature restoration on Klein Bonaire is of great importance, as it is one of the last uninhabited areas of Bonaire. The island is also home to important nesting beaches for sea turtles and beautiful coral reefs along its coast. In the past, parts of Klein Bonaire lost much of their natural vegetation due to human activity and grazing animals. Planting native trees helps restore nature, provides shelter for fauna, helps prevent erosion, and contributes to healthier coral reefs by limiting the washing of sediment into the sea. Healthy natural areas are also better equipped to absorb the effects of climate change and more intense storms.
Youth as guardians of nature
STINAPA says to be extremely grateful to all the Junior Rangers, volunteers and partners who participated in the activity. By involving young people in hands-on nature conservation, STINAPA hopes to help the next generation build a stronger bond with Bonaire’s nature and understand why protection is so important. The Junior Rangers are part of a broader educational programme by STINAPA that actively engages young people on Bonaire in preserving their own living environment.
