The Marine and Environmental Sciences (MAES) introduces UTTs Advanced Centre for Coastal and Ocean Research and Development (ACCORD)

We have many natural resources...

Trinidad and Tobago is an archipelagic State.  Our rich biodiversity is influenced by the presence of estuarine, coastal and oceanic environmental conditions. We have sensitive coastal and oceanic ecosystems of national and international importance.  Our larger wetlands (Nariva and Caroni) and coral reefs (the Buccoo Reef Complex and Speyside marine area) are internationally acclaimed.  We also boast abundant turtle populations, habitat for migratory species (e.g. Scarlet Ibis, flyingfish and associated species, cetaceans), rich fishing and shrimping grounds, bathing beaches, a host of natural products (e.g. sea moss, sponges), deposits of crude oil and vast natural gas reserves.  These are all contained in a marine area which is 15 times greater than our land territories.

...and they are utilized by many

We have exploited these resources to support our economic, social, and cultural activities.  Energy exploitation comes mainly from the marine areas and currently supplies approximately 60% of our nation’s GDP.  Fisheries provides a livelihood as well as supplies many coastal communities with dietary protein.  In the absence of large public parks, the beaches and coral reefs have been providing nationals and visitors alike a recreational outlet.  We are also a major trans-shipment point, with multiple ports of entry on Trinidad’s west coast alone.

...But ACCORD aims to address the issues!

Given the value of these resources and their exploitation, it is inevitable that user conflicts have arisen, and without adequate management there will be unsustainable use and eventual degradation of the environment.  ACCORD aims to address these salient issues through offering applied taught-research combination degrees, which can then be applied towards management, other research and teaching opportunities, and consultancies, innovation and entrepreneurial prospects.