From Coastline to Carbon Credits: T&T’s Marine Agenda

September 25th, 2025

Though modest in size, Trinidad and Tobago commands a maritime space 15 times its landmass, home to coastal assets generating approximately 80% of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP). These critical resources are monitored by the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), which has led significant progress in marine conservation and sustainability over the past 25 years, strengthening legal frameworks, expanding marine protected areas and advancing science-based coastal management.

Balancing Biodiversity and Progress

Since 1978, the IMA has played a central role in the research, development and planning of local coastal and marine resources. With climate change and environmental threats intensifying, the agency continues to prioritise long-term resilience, working to balance ecological preservation with economic progress.

“Many of the predicted effects of climate change have now become tangible realities around the world,” observes Dr. Maxam. “Climate departure — meaning a permanent change in climate conditions — is one such example, visible in events like coastal flooding caused by sustained shoreline retreat. At the IMA, we’ve implemented several projects to help safeguard Trinidad and Tobago’s waters and coastline. We receive reports on environmental incidents, such as oil spills, through our digital platform, seaiTT, and conduct investigations while alerting the relevant authorities.”

Supporting these initiatives, the IMA’s Oceanography and Coastal Processes Programme uses hydrography, sedimentology, and coastal dynamics to guide coastline erosion management. The Institute also conducts pollution monitoring, inspects waterways for plastic waste, and manages protected areas to conserve biodiversity.

Turning Ecosystems into Economic Assets

Through innovative efforts, the IMA is shaping the ecological future while positioning itself to contribute significantly to sustainable growth. “We want to position the IMA as a key driver of Trinidad and Tobago’s economic development,” says Dr. Maxam. “Data is one of our most valuable national assets. Through our Marine Data Hub, we’re collecting critical information on the environment and biodiversity, and our goal is to leverage that knowledge to create real economic value. We see the potential to develop licensable products, build a robust data economy, and position the country as a regional leader in marine intelligence.”

In April 2024, the Ministry of Planning and Development* signed a Technical Cooperation Agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to initiate a pilot Blue Carbon Credit Scheme under the leadership of the IMA. The three-year programme includes:

• studying two mangrove sites,
• restoring blue carbon ecosystems in Tobago,
• creating a blue carbon credit scheme, and
• educating stakeholders and investors.

It will also strengthen digital mapping, monitoring and verification systems to accurately track the benefits of marine ecosystem services, particularly those that contribute to climate change mitigation. Carbon credits are tradable permits representing the right to emit a certain amount of greenhouse gases. These credits can be sold to purchasers who want to offset their emissions, potentially generating revenue for local communities.

“It’s important to ensure that communities benefit directly from the revenue generated through carbon credits,” explains Dr. Maxam. “These initiatives not only provide economic opportunities but also help build community pride, creating lasting benefits for generations to come.”

Positioning T&T for Green Leadership

Looking ahead, Dr. Maxam highlights the promising potential of the IMA’s oil fingerprinting database, for which regional samples are being collected: “This technology will enable us to accurately trace spills back to their source refineries. It also allows us to offer analytical services in the aftermath of regional oil spills, potentially generating revenue for the country.”

Alongside technological advances, robust government policy remains essential for national progress. Dr. Maxam notes that the government is currently developing policies on renewable energy management, marine spatial planning and integrated coastal zone management.

She adds that by leveraging its natural gas expertise, vibrant energy sector, and skilled workforce, Trinidad and Tobago is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities in green hydrogen production, paving the way to become a leading low-carbon fuel exporter in the region.

*Editor’s Note: In May 2025, the Ministry of Planning and Development was renamed the Ministry of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development.

BY Dixie-Ann Belle