The premier firm for private islands is proud to announce its new association with Seacology, the world’s preeminent NGO for preserving island ecosystems.
Toronto, Canada March 29th, 2007- Private Islands Inc. is announcing a new partnership with Seacology, the world’s only NGO dedicated solely to the preservation of island ecosystems. Combining forces to increase public understanding of the environmental concerns affecting island regions, Seacology and Private Islands Inc. are both uniquely aware of the importance these fragile ecosystems have for the world as a whole. “The issues that are strongly affecting islands, like erosion, possible rises in sea level, and depletion of biological resources like marine and plant life, are issues that will affect us all,” says Private Islands Inc. CEO Chris Krolow. “But because of their isolation and fragility, islands are impacted first- like the proverbial canary in a coal mine.”
From the Maldives and Papua New Guinea to coastal regions of North America, Seacology has a global reach in the projects they undertake. “What initially attracted me to Seacology, beyond simply the obvious focus on island ecosystems, was the fair and thoughtful approach they take when dealing with local populations,” says Krolow. “When an area is designated a protected territory, such as a no-fish zone, this means that local residents are giving up a valuable, if unsustainable, source of income. I admire how Seacology ensures that the people who have the most to lose from preservation are actively engaged in creating a solution where everyone wins.”
The myriad of ways that Seacology improves the lives of local populations in exchange for protected territory includes the construction of medical centers, school buildings, and even airport terminals- whatever infrastructure residents decide would most benefit their community. These exchanges have resulted in a large impact for the global environment. Seacology’s projects have saves millions of acres of coral, marine ecosystems and forest habitats. “Island owners are naturally environmentally conscious, because they can see immediate impact from disruptions to their small, sheltered ecosystem,” says Krolow. “I look forward to promoting the excellent work Seacology is doing to save these fragile environments.”