Caribbean nature in the spotlight

United for nature conservation

WWF-NL is committed to increasing nature through conservation and restoration worldwide, including on the Dutch Caribbean islands. These islands, with their coral reefs, mangrove forests, and iconic marine species such as whales, dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles, feature exceptional nature. This nature contributes to the food and income of local residents and the vacation happiness of the many tourists who regularly visit the islands. WWF-NL collaborates with residents and local partners to protect and restore the regional nature. WWF-NL’s Dutch Caribbean program focuses particularly on coastal ecosystems and iconic marine animals.

Raising Awareness

In addition to protecting species and areas, education and awareness play an essential role in the program, which is why WWF-NL works with local partner the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) on developing educational projects for the youth on the six islands. The collaboration with WOW! Caribbean Nature Uncovered is another significant step in the mission for nature conservation, highlighting the nature of the Caribbean islands. These islands harbor rich biodiversity that is often taken for granted or overlooked. Through a unique nature film, the project aims to let everyone enjoy the island nature and promote shared responsibility for its preservation.

Multimedia Project

WOW! Caribbean Nature Uncovered is an ambitious multimedia project initiated by the foundation 360º of Innovation from Aruba and MN Media Group from The Netherlands. WOW! goes far beyond just a cinema film. In addition to the film, six documentaries will be made. There will also be a podcast, an educational platform, and a database. Local talents on the islands will have the opportunity to participate in the project, which is a great opportunity for them and provides the project with the necessary local input.

Connection

Arno Verhoeven, Executive Director of DCNA: “By showing how nature is an integral part of life on the islands, the film touches the hearts, emotions, and souls of people. It is the mission of the creators and partners to showcase the beauty of the Caribbean islands and spark a global movement for the preservation of these unique ecosystems.”

Bianca Peters, Co-producer of WOW!: “Every day, the breathtaking beauty and fragility of the nature on the Caribbean islands deeply moves me. It’s as if I discover something new in the rich biodiversity that the islands have to offer every time. With WOW! we not only want to show the stunning nature, but also create an emotional connection between the islands and the Kingdom as a whole. To be honest, how many people in The Netherlands truly know the islands and their beautiful nature?

I believe that if we share our love for nature, we can build a powerful bridge on many more themes within our society. Our mission with this film, the documentaries, the podcast, the educational platform, the talent program, and the database is to create a collective appreciation and responsibility for our environment so that future generations can be as amazed as we are. I am very grateful that we are building this together with WWF-NL and DCNA. Only together can we make a real difference.”

Text: WWF-Netherlands
Pictures: Kenny Ranking; M&N Media Group; EMS Films