ICE facility restored in Petite Martinique
A SOLAR-POWERED ice facility in Petite Martinique, damaged by Hurricane Beryl, has been fully restored, reinstating a critical lifeline for the island’s fisheries sector and the livelihoods of more than 50 local fishers.
On Grenada’s smallest inhabited island, the day begins at sea. Not only a tradition—fishing represents income, food security, and survival. In July 2024, livelihoods were placed on hold following severe roof damage to its ice-making facility caused by Hurricane Beryl. In response, the Sandals Foundation last year partnered with Sustainable Grenadines Inc. (SusGren) to commence urgent repairs to the facility, ensuring safe storage, reduced spoilage, and maintaining the value of daily catch from shoreline to market, a Sandals release states.
The project, valued at some US$35,0000, forms part of a wider effort of the Sandals Foundation to strengthen resilience in the coastal community increasingly exposed to extreme weather and climate disruption.
“When disasters strike, recovery must do more than replace what was lost—it must strengthen what remains,” said Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, Heidi Clarke.
“This project reflects our commitment to supporting communities while protecting the natural environments they depend on. By restoring this facility, we are helping families earn a living today and strengthening their resilience for tomorrow.”
For Executive Director of Sustainable Grenadines Inc., Orisha Joseph, the newly repaired facility has significantly enhanced the output of Grenada’s fisheries sector.
“Restoring the facility was critical to helping fishers return to normal operations while strengthening the community’s ability to withstand future climate impacts. Partnerships like this ensure recovery efforts are practical, locally driven, and built to last,”she said.
Beyond an improved infrastructure, the Sandals Foundation also facilitated fishers being trained in sustainable practices, marine conservation, and climate change adaptation. To further strengthen the health of the marine space, an underwater clean-up was also facilitated to remove debris and restore nearshore ecosystems. Petite Martinique plays an outsized role in Grenada’s fisheries sector, contributing roughly 15% of national fish exports.
Ensuring the continued operation of its ice facility is therefore essential, not only for the island’s economy, but for national food security and long-term fisheries stability, the Sandals release points out.
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