Government is preparing to ramp up its response to the growing sargassum seaweed problem, including plans to begin offshore collection efforts as massive blooms continue to threaten Barbados’ beaches, fisheries and tourism industry.

Speaking during the launch of a Barbados Marine Spatial Plan-themed bus at the Garrison on Friday, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Environment, Santia Bradshaw warned that the annual influx of sargassum continues to create major environmental and economic challenges for the island.

“This valuable marine space also faces very real threats. Sargassum seaweed influxes continue to impact our beaches, fisheries, coastal communities, and tourism product, while coastal erosion threatens our infrastructure, our ecosystems, and our vulnerable shorelines across the island.