The main objective of the PISCES project is to support innovative actions by civil society organisations  (CSOs) and coastal community small and microenterprises (SMEs) to conserve marine and coastal biodiversity and develop sustainable and resilient livelihoods in the Caribbean.

This small grant facility forms part of CANARI’s Caribbean Sea Innovation Fund (CarSIF). CarSIF supports innovation and best practices by CSOs and community enterprises to address priority needs and actions in the Caribbean on marine and coastal resources governance and management.

In 2016, the Union Island Gecko Conservation Action Plan was developed with community members and other stakeholders to save the Critically Endangered Union Island Gecko: one of the most threatened animals in the West Indies.

This species is found in the dry forests in Chatham Bay – The Union Island Geckos have been found from near sea level to 300 metres above sea level. The plan was developed through a joint effort by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Forestry Department, Fauna & Flora International and Virginia Zoo where the Union Island Environmental Attackers is a key working partner.

Project Activities November 2019 – April 2020

Activity 1:
Island Wide Coastal Clean-up Activity of Chatham Bay and other Coastal sites on Union Island. Residents would be able to win cash prizes for the best cleanup; these cash prizes will be used by the groups to undertake a meaningful task in the community.

At least 5 coastal areas will be cleaned. Through this project activity persons will have a greater appreciation for the coastal areas and its importance to both biodiversity protection and marine lively hoods. The habitat of the Union Island Gecko will be protected. There will be a significant reduction in the number of geckos and other wildlife being removed from Union Island through local knowledge and enforcement.

Activity 2:
Conduct a two day programme of educational and community outreach activities centred on schools and persons from the community. Young community members will be trained in eco-tourism, environmental interpretation, climate change, and education, public speaking and storytelling.

This project will build knowledge and positive attitudes towards the Union Island Gecko, the Chatham Bay Forest and other important biodiversity on Union Island. The conservation of wildlife will be illustrated as a viable livelihood and will discourage damaging activities.

Activity 3:
The Union Island Environmental Attackers website will be upgraded. It will include information on the Union Island Gecko, and will include a login feature for persons who attended the two day workshop.

The website will provide more information on the Union Island Gecko and will serve as a selling point to promote eco tours showing the outstanding natural beauty and biodiversity to attract visitors. At least 30 persons or more would continue to gain online access to knowledge and training information on climate change, coastal areas protection, and the Union Island Gecko.