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History of the National Environmental Initiative

Haiti is facing an escalating environmental crisis with devastating effects on the majority of the population. Efforts to combat the consequences of environmental degradation, to protect the remaining natural resources, and to restore Haiti’s natural environment exist throughout the country. Traditionally these efforts have remained isolated from one another. Although the majority of these groups share the same fundamental goals they have seldom worked together.

A series of conferences has tackled the challenge of coordination and collaboration over the past three years, and each meeting has brought together national and international stakeholders in an effort to build unity for Haiti’s environment. Konbit Pou Ayiti/KONPAY engaged forty Haitian and international representatives in September 2005 for a meeting to determine common goals and initiatives. Alternative Gifts International invited more than twenty-five agencies based in Haiti and abroad to Wichita, KS in February 2006. During the meeting participants were challenged to envision a reforested Haiti and identify the steps to reach that goal.

 

Building on the momentum and unity that was forged during these two meetings, the National Environment Initiative was hosted by Alternative Gifts International (AGI) and represented the next big step towards greater collaboration for Haiti’s environment. The NEI was put together by a planning committee consisting of: Melinda Miles, AGI and KONPAY; Karen Carr, Community Coalition for Haiti; David Diggs, Beyond Border and Fondasyon Limyè Lavi; Patrick Lucien, Edem Foundation; Jackson Voltaire, Ayiti Gouvènans; and Denise Davis, American Friends Service Committee.

 

Invitees included the agencies that participated in the Wichita meeting and a large list of organizations active for the environment compiled from participants and other contacts. Efforts were made to be as inclusive as possible. The Minister of the Environment for the Government of Haiti, several local government officials, and the Director of the Commission for Development on the Border Region were also invited to participate.