Antigua Seaforth Beach & Mangroves Petition Raises Concerns over Transparency and Environmental Impact

A petition calling for the protection of Seaforth Beach and its surrounding mangroves has gained hundreds of signatures overnight, highlighting concerns about access to information and the potential environmental impact of a planned Special Economic Zone (SEZ) development.

Key points:

Limited transparency: Residents and environmental groups express concerns about the lack of consultation and information regarding the project.
Sustainable development concerns: The petition emphasizes the importance of balancing economic development with environmental protection, given the area’s ecological significance.
Environmental impact assessment: While an EIA is reportedly underway, land clearing has already begun, raising concerns about potential damage before proper assessment.
Access to information: The petition underscores the need for transparent communication and public involvement in development decisions.

Specific details on access to information:

The petition, launched by Raul Samuel, calls on authorities to defend and protect the area, expressing concerns about the lack of proper consultation and information sharing.
Residents have complained about the lack of transparency in the planning process and the absence of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) before land clearing began.
The Department of Environment’s explanation of the EIA process highlights the importance of public engagement and independent assessments in ensuring informed decision-making.

Call to action:

The “Save Seaforth Beach & Mangroves” petition urges authorities to prioritize transparency, conduct a thorough environmental assessment, and implement sustainable development practices to protect the ecologically sensitive area.