Local bird book set for grand launch on January 13
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Source: Embassy of Taiwan
Monday, January 11, 2010 – The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in collaboration with the Government of Saint Lucia will be launching a Bird Book of Saint Lucia for Caribbean Schools (including two DVDs) at 10 a.m. on Wednesday 13th of January, 2010, at the Advanced Orchid Greenhouse, Union. The Prime Minister, Speaker of the House of Assembly, President of the Senate, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, Senators, School principals, District education officers, students and other guests will be in attendance. It is said that people who inhabit at a particular place for a very long time establish an identity of place deeply rooted in sustained environments and landscapes. The sense of place often becomes a national identity. Essential for the emergence of a national identity is longevity and an appeal to the majority of people. Many countries are beginning to realize that their national identities are closely tied to the environment. Saint Lucia’s identity is distinctly Caribbean – a warm tropical paradise in a blue sea. Unique to this island’s national identity is some of its wildlife, in particular its birds. About 74 species of birds are resident in the island nation of which six are endemic species. Twenty-four of 58 Caribbean specialties are found on Saint Lucia. Saint Lucia is rightly proud of its unique treasures. Some species have gained notice on postage stamps and in books, and the Saint Lucia Parrot has become the national bird. Ecotourism benefits conservation when people appreciate wild birds and animals and put a value on them. Many countries around the world have discovered that their natural environment is a valuable ecotourism asset. Ecotourism relies on unique wild features as a draw for tourists. It also benefits the local economy; and for the people of Saint Lucia, preservation of their unique wildlife and environment helps protect a unique national identity. The Bird Book of Saint Lucia for Caribbean Schools would help to sensitize and educate the children of Saint Lucia to appreciate the environment in which they live and thereby respect nature. It is important if we are to tackle global warming and the destruction of the rainforest that is taking place that each one plays a part in the biodiversity of life. This book will enable the future generation to take pleasure in recognizing and being able to name the birds that make up their environment. The Bird Book of Saint Lucia for Caribbean Schools initiated by Mr. Denys Springer, Director of Information Services, is one small step by which we hope that Saint Lucians will preserve and appreciate its wildlife more. The launching of the Bird Book of Saint Lucia for Caribbean Schools signifies the support for education, environment and ecotourism. We hope that this joint effort will appeal to every child and parent of this wonderful island. |
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