Photo courtesy of Pedro Moreo
Pedro Moreo is the Regional Project Coordinator of the Global Environment Facility’s CReW+ project, which seeks to maintain a clean Caribbean Sea though water and wastewater management. In an interview, he reflected on the protection of marine ecosystems as a social responsibility as well as an economic imperative.
What do you do for a living?
I am an industrial engineer from Spain and am currently working as a water and sanitation consultant at the Organization of American States (OAS). Within the OAS I have been assigned the role of Regional Project Coordinator of CReW+: An integrated approach to water and wastewater management using innovative solutions and promoting financing mechanisms in the wider Caribbean region. I see this GEF-funded project as my contribution toward responsible solutions to protect our oceans and ecosystems.
How did you get into this line of work?
I have always been passionate about the sea and the environment, but I never imagined having a career in this line of work. I was naturally drawn to it. But when I arrived in Jamaica more than a decade ago to work with the private sector, I had an opportunity to join a GEF project. Since then, the Caribbean has been my home, and I hope to continue my commitment to this beautiful region.
Could you describe a project you are currently working on?
CReW+ is a GEF project that aims to maintain a clean and healthy Caribbean Sea. We work with 18 countries of the wider Caribbean region to provide support to mitigate the effects of partially treated or untreated wastewater on the environment and public health, by improving water and wastewater management. The project includes a circular economy approach, considering the wastewater as a valuable resource with reuse potential.
What life lessons has working on environmental issues taught you?
The protection of marine ecosystems and oceans is not only a natural responsibility for the environment, but also a social responsibility. This is because marine ecosystems and oceans provide a large source of income for countries through tourism, sustainable fishing, etc., and significantly contribute to peoples’ quality of life.
The state of the global environment is often concerning. What gives you hope?
Although a lot of work remains, countries have been working hard to build a solid foundation for the future by updating the laws and regulations that impact the oceans, seeking new ways to finance actions, implementing technical solutions where it matters, sharing knowledge, and prioritizing collaboration in line with global environmental commitments. This gives us a very promising outlook.
What message do you have for today’s political leaders, about the ocean?
To continue with the work that has been done. Although we are often overly critical, there has been a great progress in the environmental sector. I urge them to rely on agencies and projects, as they have the resources and capabilities that can support and achieve the objectives. For example, the GEF CReW+ has advanced many feasibility studies and final designs to be executed in the near future that could result in approximately 19,000 cubic meters per day of potential improved wastewater treated.
What advice would you give a young person who is interested in a career related to the environment?
We are grateful to have young people that can contribute with a fresh mindset. I would recommend patience and hard work, because sometimes it is difficult to see short-term results. However, in my personal experience, understanding each country, region, partner, and agency is crucial. It may take time, but is a very important first step before being able to make significant contributions. Never lose focus of the big picture because the medium- and long-term results are very rewarding.
