(KPL/Prensa Latina)  In the context of World Seagrass Day, Cuba's Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment (Citma) in Camagüey continues today to strengthen its work for the conservation of these vital marine ecosystems in Cuba.

Precisely in the country’s largest province, which occupies more than 20 percent of its beaches, this activity is essential for the environmental balance and protection of Cuba’s coasts.

Seagrasses, recognized as one of the most important coastal habitats on the planet, play key roles in mitigating climate change, reducing coastal erosion and purifying marine waters, which is why every March 1 the work for this cause is praised.

In addition, they are the sustenance of numerous species, including some endangered species such as seahorses and sea turtles, which makes them a fundamental pillar for biodiversity.

In Camagüey, Citma has promoted an extensive research and monitoring program of the underwater prairies, with the aim of evaluating their conservation status and promoting sustainable practices to ensure their protection.

According to specialists from the institution, these projects not only seek to preserve biodiversity, but also to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities in the face of extreme natural phenomena, such as storm surges, as acknowledged in a recent publication on the Facebook page of Citma in Camagüey.

Seagrasses are strategic allies in the fight against climate change

Their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide and weaken the impact of waves during extreme weather events makes them a natural shield for our coasts,’ said Carlos Martínez, coordinator of environmental projects of Citma in Camagüey.

Among the Ministry’s most recent actions in the region are the implementation of environmental education campaigns aimed at fishermen and local communities, as well as the promotion of initiatives to reduce pollution in coastal areas.

KPL