Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SUSTAINABILITY & ENVIRONMENTAL
ISSUES
The Virgin Islands have long faced environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil
erosion, mangrove destruction and a lack of fresh water. While islanders have a way to go to-
ward undoing generations of environmental damage and preserving their natural resources,
the past few decades have seen an increase in the level of awareness, resources and action
dedicated to conservation efforts.
Friends of the Virgin Islands National Park (
www.friendsvinp.org
)
and the
USVI
Department of Planning & Natural Resources (
www.vifishandwildlife.com
)
have led
the way. The
Nature Conservancy (
www.nature.org
)
and
Trust for Public Land
(
www.tpl.org
)
also have stepped in. For instance, the Conservancy made a protected reserve
out of the sea- turtle nesting grounds at St Croix's Jack and Isaac Bays - land once slated
for residential development. The Trust for Public Land is currently trying to save the land at
Maho Bay's eco-camp from being sold and developed.
Population Growth & Urbanization
Without a doubt, population growth and rapid urbanization have posed the greatest threats
to the islands' environment. The Virgin Islands traditionally have had a very high birthrate
and historically have been a sanctuary for immigrants. As a consequence, the population
mushroomed from about 40,000 people in 1970 to 140,000 today between the territories. On
St Thomas and Tortola, almost all of the flat land has been developed, and houses hang on
mountain slopes like Christmas ornaments. The growth and density have left public utilities
like sewage-treatment plants in a constant scramble to keep pace.
Deforestation & Soil Erosion
During the 18th century logging operations denuded many of the islands to make room for
plantations. Subsequently, untold acres of topsoil have eroded. The demise of the agricultur-
al economy in the late 19th century allowed the islands to reforest, and in recent years the
island governments have set aside forested land as national parks (particularly on St John,
