Restore degraded wetlands in hazard-prone basins to increase water retention and slow runoff.
Wetland restoration can be an integral part of the ridge to reef approach.
Wetland restoration in the Caribbean refers to the ecological and social process of returning degraded wetlands—such as mangroves, salt marshes, coastal lagoons, seagrass meadows, and inland freshwater swamps—to a healthy, functioning state. Because Caribbean wetlands are among the region’s most valuable ecosystems, restoration focuses on rebuilding their ecology, function, and benefits to people. It involves: restoring hydrology, re-establishing native vegetation, controlling erosion and sedimentation, improving water quality, removing (and managing) invasive species and, community and cultural integration (such as fishing, crab harvesting, small-scale tourism)
Feasibility & Local Applicability
Highly feasible - collaboration with parks and authorities needed,
Co-benefits
Habitat creation, biodiversity, water purification, tourism.
Equity & Vulnerability Considerations
Involve local farmers, fishers and communities in restoration plans.
Costs
Medium
Case studies & Examples
- Henkens et al., (2025), Turning the tide
- Engel et al., (2020), Bonaire mangroves
Literature
- Henkens et al., (2024), Western Wetlands of Aruba: Baseline study of the pressures, threats and biodiversity values of the (former) salinĚas at Bubali, Palm Beach, Cerca, Malmok, and Druif, Wageningen Research report number 3380
- De Boer et al., (2023), Nature-based solutions for flood resilience on Bonaire: a scoping study, Wageningen Research report number 3292