People Planet Purpose
- Tom Phillips
- Jul 1
- 12 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
In a world where public health threats and climate crises dominate the headlines, Isle Bee Well offers a different path, one that supports wellness, protects the planet and moves us forward with purpose. This blog explores fresh perspectives on the dynamic relationship between wellness and sustainability through the eyes of an island beekeeper. Drawing similarities among bees, human development and environmental stewardship, insights are gleaned for a balanced life of meaning and purpose. The seventeen (17) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) proposed by the United Nations remind us to think globally while acting locally, promoting well-being, social inclusion, economic prosperity and environmental awareness. As our livelihoods improve, our overall well-being should also be enhanced. By this same breath, living spaces, including our natural environment, should be measurably compatible. Those development milestones which we have attained should now be sustained for progress to be meaningful. Therefore then, Sustainable-Wellnes could be perceived as an interwoven concept, woven for a common purpose, to don a white garment, our hopeful future.
A Balanced Lifestyle for Sustainable Wellness
Balanced lifestyle choices are important considerations for attaining and sustaining well-being. How might we balance better? Some health frameworks, such as the Biopsychosocial model, suggest that good health results from the interplay of biological, psychological, and socio-environmental factors. Once good health and well-being are attained, they should be sustained to be meaningful. Sustainable-wellness, as an interrelated concept, could be integrated into daily lives and woven into the fabric of our culture. Larger than any magic pill, savvy workout or trendy health hack, holistic wellness values and prioritises well-being. Wellness, fostered at home, nurtured at school, and championed at our workplace, sets us on a new path of sustained well-being.
The Caribbean islands are getaway oases for balanced living. Pure Grenada, situated at the end of this island archipelago, is ideal for trekking through verdant rainforests, enjoying cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and pristine beaches. Allowing space for outdoor prayer, meditation or tai chi for instance helps us shine light on the aspects of ourselves that seem to be beyond control. As we look inward while outdoors, our introspection and discriminative wisdom are strengthened, gaining fresh insights on things we can manageably engage with. Fostering mindful awareness, self-discovery and gratitude for the simple things strengthen our internal locus of control, inviting the island ease back into our lives.
Our Planet, A Sustainable Promise
Planetary well-being resides in the collective promise of a sustainable future. The interconnectedness of air, land, sea, and their life forms suggests that humankind should find harmony with its co-inhabitants. As the human microbiome is pivotal to our health, so too the Biosphere of our planet should be similarly balanced. Collective recognition of this is the beginning of a planetary well-being we can sustain.
Environmental scientist Rachel Carson shared a similar sentiment in her seminal book, Silent Spring, that human health and the environment are inextricably linked.
Her work raised concerns about the effects of DDT (Dichloro Diphenyl Trichloroethane), a chemically synthesised insecticide used by jungle warfare soldiers against insects that transmit Malaria and Typhus fever.
The effectiveness of DDT sparked interest in agriculture and public health against crop pests and disease-causing vectors respectively. Indiscriminate spraying of this insecticide over mass crop fields and directly on public citizens raised public health questions as higher incidences of cancers, neurodevelopmental disorders and endocrine disruptions surfaced. Carson's environmental work later led to the establishment of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the 1960s, coinciding with the emergence of the wellness movement.
As a collective, we should be more aware of our lifestyle choices and mindful of our environmental impact. Isle Bee Well recognizes the need for biobased consumer products of familiar efficacy and low environmental footprint. Our commitment is to leverage biobased ingredients for a suite of everyday household items, from personal care to home care, inspired by bees.
Sustainable-Wellness, Food for Thought
Food and how it is sourced plays a key role in sustainable-wellness. Residing at the intersection of sustainability and wellness, agriculture contributes notably to climate change, mainly due to livestock practices. About 30% of global CO2 emissions stem from agricultural practices, not to mention some of the other greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide in the United States. (US EPA, April 2024). Arguably, the quality of organic produce has diminished, as producers prioritise market demand and competitive pricing. In order to support a sustainable-wellness culture, backyard farming and permaculture practices should be championed. This self-sufficient approach to agriculture preserves soil health, supports pollinators, and produces healthier food choices. Island states with a strong agricultural backbone are faced with climate change and global market challenges. As farmers serve locally while thinking globally, agri-tech innovations such as hydroponic systems, automated greenhouses or smart irrigation technologies should be leveraged to ensure food security. Pollinators such as honeybees are pivotal to food security, being responsible for a third of all agricultural produce. Globally, beekeepers are called upon to be stewards of sustainability, reversing global pollinator decline and sustaining food security. More emphasis on natural, polyfloral beekeeping practices should be promoted, to prioritise pollinator health.
Waste Diversion Project for Sustainable Impact
Isle Bee Well have embarked on a waste diversion project which will now be highlighted. Grenada’s total waste has been steadily increasing at 1.2% annually. Waste generation on the island has reached a high of 40% since 1990. Household solid waste constitutes about 45% of the tri-island’s total waste with about 24,000 tonnes of residential waste entering the Dumfries Landfill in Carriacou and the Perseverance Landfill on the mainland (Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority, GSWMA). The sister island of Carriacou is faced with greater challenges as its landfill site is falling short of its solid waste capacity. The Perseverance Landfill is a semi-aerobic landfill that operates at 50% capacity, three (3) of its six (6) cells being functional. Unaccounted for spatial planning and limited space resulted in the landfill placement within a National Protected Area, just 200 meters away from Halifax Harbour Bay and 600 meters away from two other Marine Protected Areas, the Beausejour/Moliniere Protected Areas.
Landfill placement at Perseverance Protected Area has contributed to the displacement of habitats and endemic species, most notably the Grenada Dove (Leptotila wellsi), national bird of the island now critically endangered. Observation of pollution and coral reef degradation at the Beasejour/Moliniere Marine Protected Area has been reported over the years (Molinière-Beauséjour Marine Protected Area Management Plan, 2010). Before strategic interventions by the Grenada Solid Waste Management Agency (GSWMA), and other environmental stakeholders, the landfill site was ablaze from spontaneous methane combustion, obscuring driving visibility and triggering respiratory allergies for western travellers. Collaborative work by all stakeholders started remediation at the dump site, from the installation of leachate traps, landfill capping, and the planting of vetiver roots for detoxification. To add further momentum to this endeavour, Isle Bee Well are championing a refillable cleaning system as an alternative to liquid home cleaning products featuring biobased tablet concentrates which get activated with water.
Learn about our Impact Project here: https://www.islebeewell.com/projects-7
Upstream Waste Management Solution
Our team has analyzed Grenada’s solid waste challenges together with their public health influencers. Our condensed analysis employs the DPSIR framework, which is used to abstract complex problems of socio-environmental interplay. The sanitary needs of Grenada's population are driving the importation of non-biodegradable, single-use toiletries. With an extended end-of-life cycle, together with a complete recovery and recycling plan, plastics accumulate. Pollution is unavoidable, and habitat displacement is the outcome. In response, reactive actions such as incineration, landfill capping, and leachate collection systems are employed to reduce and contain waste.
As a proactive solution, we propose an upstream waste management approach, reducing waste at the source with a refillable design. The system relies on refillable cleaning concentrates in tablet form together with a foaming dispenser, which is assembled and activated when combined with water. This elegant zero-waste solution has various cleaning applications from Hand soap, to Dish soap, Surface cleaners and Laundry detergent.
Community Bins for Waste Sorting
A vision for community composting facilities and recycling initiatives involves a comprehensive system of colour-coded bins to streamline waste management processes. These colour-coded bins can help individuals easily identify where to dispose of their waste, promoting better composting and recycling habits that reduce contamination in waste management streams. Credit must be given to the Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority (GSWMA), which is leading the way with colour-coded bins throughout the city of St. George's. The introduction of more community composting facilities, such as the Mirabeau Community Composting Project, facilitated by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), could play a crucial role in diverting organic waste from landfills, which could be used as mulch for community farmers and backyard gardeners. This integrated approach to waste management not only contributes to a cleaner environment but also fosters a more sustainable and circular economy in Grenada.
From Waste to Use, Sargassum's Value-Added Potential
Sargassum seaweed is a significant threat to Grenada’s coastal ecosystems, fisheries and tourism. This invasive seaweed, when washed ashore, decomposes and releases hydrogen sulfide, harming marine life, disrupting local economies, and creating health hazards. As a vision of the future, this threat could be mitigated through innovative biotechnological solutions. One approach involves harnessing enzymes and microorganisms to accelerate the decomposition of sargassum into non-toxic compounds, potentially transforming it into valuable resources like biofuels, fertilizers, functional health ingredients and bioplastics. Developing bioproducts from sargassum, such as dietary supplements and wellness products, could flip this environmental challenge into an economic opportunity. Biotechnological solutions could address the immediate threat of sargassum but also contribute to climate change resilience and ecological degradation.
Incentivizing the Green Transition
Improving policy-making to subsidize and incentivize sustainable practices is necessary for Grenada's sustainable future. Effective policies can drive the transition to a greener economy by making sustainable practices more accessible and attractive to businesses and individuals. This includes subsidies for renewable energy adoption, tax incentives for social enterprises and grants for sustainable agricultural practices. Policy enablers around sustainability and wellness spaces can empower citizens to make eco and health-conscious decisions. By aligning environmental goals with financial incentives, the government can nudge the private sector toward green investments. These policies can support local job creation in the green economy toward sustainable ventures. Increasing accessibility to electric vehicles is possible through import subsidies and infrastructure support, such as nationwide charging stations and trained maintenance personnel. Subsidizing the adoption of solar panels would reduce the cost of purchasing and installing solar energy systems. Such an initiative could encourage a broader adoption of solar energy, a clean and renewable source of power meant to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Digitizing Healthcare for Personalized Medicine
Championing preventative and complementary health approaches, alongside modern technologies like Telemedicine, Electronic Health Records (EHR), Bioinformatics and Wearable Health trackers, together could set the stage for Personalized Medicine. Additionally, embracing Traditional Systems of Medicine (TSM) practices such as herbal medicine, acupuncture and yoga alongside Western Allopathic Medicine, citizens can benefit from the best of both worlds. Inclusion of telehealth can expand access to medical services in rural communities. Electronic Health Records systems streamline patient data management, ensuring accurate and efficient care across all healthcare providers. Bioinformatics tools, including DNA sequencing and metagenomics, make personalized medicine a reality, allowing tailored treatments to specific genetic profiles. Case in point, Carriacou resident Walter Clemet Noel was the first documented case of Sickle Cell Disease described in western medical literature, a genetic disorder that causes blood cells to have an abnormal shape, resulting in many health complications. What if clinicians could consult patients' genetic profiles from the outset for informed health decisions, rather than being detectives of sequelae? Wearable health trackers and wellness apps can empower citizens to engage with their health, offering insights into health data, mindfulness reminders, and stress management. This comprehensive approach could foster a proactive culture for individualised healthcare.
Climate Resilience for Purposeful Living
Implementing sustainable and resilient practices for planting vulnerable produce like cocoa and nutmeg is essential for protecting them from hurricanes. Utilising techniques such as agroforestry and intercropping, farmers can create natural barriers that shield plants from strong winds and heavy rainfall. Downstream agro-processing technologies should be bolstered to enhance the economic value of raw produce through the extraction of essential oils, food, health and beauty products. This approach not only diversifies Grenada's agricultural portfolio but boosts its market potential. A resilient, climate-adaptable beekeeping sector is important for food security and ecosystem balance. Beekpeers championing natural, poly floral beekeeping practices should be supported and encouraged to sit at roundtables, having unique perspectives on the changing times and seasons. July 1st, 2024 the sister Isle of Carriacou weathered an unforgiving category four (4) hurricane, Beryl. Just two years out of the COVID-19 pandemic the hurricane tore apart 98% of homes and businesses, disrupting lives and livelihoods. National sustainability projects got uprooted as the storm decimated over 1,400 solar panels of a newly launched renewable energy pilot project two weeks before Beryl's arrival. Island life never falls short of resilience, hope and rediscovery of what matters. As we accustom ourselves to the spirit of resilience, this same spirit should be infused into our designs. Climate-sponsored solutions, purposefully engineered for resilience. Bioengineering provides us with fresh perspectives for designs that are ecosystem-inclusive and resilient.
Nature-inspired Design and Construction
In the realm of sustainable construction and architecture, the utilization of eco-friendly materials represent a milestone towards diminishing environmental footprint. Biobased, innovative materials such as nature-based polyurethane and polyamide allow for sustainable substitutes in modern construction. Designing climate resilience architecture is essential for hurricane and earthquake belt islands like Grenada. Practical strategies such as installing hurricane roof straps and ties, impact-resistant doors, window shutters and louvres help resist strong hurricane winds. While consolidating foundations for seismic activity, elevating houses and ensuring proper drainage, reduces the impact of flooding along coastal areas. By incorporating nature-inspired elements, architects can create better house designs that not only enhance aesthetics but also improve functionality and sustainability. Biomimicry, drawing inspiration from nature, can lead to innovative solutions for indoor air quality, like incorporating natural ventilation systems, accommodating open house designs and using plants to boost air quality. Rainwater harvesting can be integrated into designs having features such as green roofs and rain gardens. Wastewater repurposing systems inspired by natural processes can be implemented to recycle water for non-potable uses, such as irrigation or sanitary needs. As we embrace more of nature in architecture, we elevate the well-being of its occupants.
A Shared Vision, A Common Future
The vision for sustainable-wellness is one of harmony between people and the environment, where the health of the population and the health of the planet are seen as interconnected. Achieving this vision should spark our collective efforts including government ministries, businesses, schools and people. This means prioritizing environmental conservation and sustainable development, while also fostering an inclusive culture for holistic wellness. By integrating these principles into policies, practices, and daily life, Grenada could be a model for sustainable-wellness. The island has made notable strides in sustainability, implementing policies that reduce the importation of plastic, promote sustainable tourism, protect marine ecosystems, and adopt green energy platforms. While the vision for sustainable wellness is promising, it is not without challenges. Economic constraints, limited resources and the pressures of globalization are noteworthy hurdles against achieving this vision. However though, within the bounds of constraint reside opportunities to expand beyond bounds. One of the primary challenges is the need for an economic approach that acknowledges the synergy between environmental integrity and public health. Grenada, like many small island nations, relies heavily on tourism placing a burden on resources and the natural environment. Eco-wellness tourism, as a concept, could position our island as a destination of sustainability and wellness. Conservation tours, therapy, and wellness retreats could serve as ports for eco-wellness, attracting travellers seeking meaning in life. Promoting the promise to tread lightly is everyone's duty, echoing commitment to Ecotourism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey towards sustainable-wellness in Grenada is an ongoing process, one that requires mindful awareness of our actions within the eco and wellness sphere, one where human well-being and planetary health are interwoven. Anchored on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we highlighted how individual choices, community initiatives, and innovative solutions could converge to build a healthier, more resilient future. From mindful living and sustainable agriculture to refillable biobased products and waste diversion projects, we demonstrated how global thinking could spark local action. Drawing from Grenada’s unique natural assets and challenges, this blog advocates for a balanced lifestyle, eco-conscious innovation, green policy-making, and circular economies—all guided by a shared purpose for better health and a better planet. With inspiration from nature and the industrious honeybee, this narrative offers a roadmap toward a cleaner, healthier and more meaningful tomorrow, a roadmap we now embark on together.
References
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Urbanization, Environmental Pollution and Skin Aging
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