Record Sargassum seaweed landings are driving the Virgin Islands to implement a multi-tiered response strategy, Director of Climate Change Angela Burnett-Penn said during the Ministry of Environment’s 2025 Mid-Year Review on Sept. 12.
The plan includes coordinated clean-ups in priority areas, with thresholds set to trigger action. Smaller deposits will be left in place to maintain ecological balance on beaches, Burnett-Penn said.
Future measures include acquiring booms, surf rakes, and other specialised equipment to support efficient removal while minimising sand loss. Burnett-Penn emphasised that sustained budgetary support will be required to strengthen capacity.
“Managing Sargassum is about balancing environmental health with the needs of communities and the tourism sector,” she said.
