PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic – Technical officers from five Caribbean countries gathered in Punta Cana from 17 – 21 August 2026 for training on sargassum management systems and equipment operations. The training was hosted by UNDP through its project for Improving National Sargassum Management Capacities in the Caribbean, funded by the Government of Japan. 

The Caribbean continues to face recurring Sargassum influxes that affect coastal ecosystems, tourism, fisheries, public health, and local livelihoods. The project supports countries in addressing this growing challenge through investments in equipment, technical assistance, capacity building, and innovative solutions that contribute to coastal resilience and sustainable development. Participating countries are Barbados, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Recognizing the need for coordinated and effective responses, the five-day training focused on building the technical knowledge and operational readiness needed to maximize the impact of investments in sargassum management equipment provided through the project. Through a combination of classroom sessions, field demonstrations, equipment inspections, and hands-on practical exercises, participants gained first-hand experience in operating and maintaining specialized offshore and onshore management systems including booms, harvesters and beach rakes.

Participants engaged directly with equipment manufacturers, technical experts, researchers, and practitioners on topics including safety protocols, equipment maintenance, environmental safeguards, operational planning, and emerging opportunities for the sustainable use of collected sargassum. The training also provided a platform for countries to share lessons learned, discuss common challenges, and strengthen regional cooperation.