Technical proposal within the framework of the CReW+ Project and the Cartagena Convention to update the LBS Protocol, with the aim of establishing stricter criteria for the discharge of domestic wastewater and promoting its reuse in the Greater Caribbean region. The proposal emphasizes the urgent need to regulate nitrogen and phosphorus flows, warning of the disruption of biogeochemical cycles, which represents a high environmental risk. Through case studies in small island states with water scarcity, the proposal seeks to mitigate pollution and promote sustainable management of reclaimed water in the face of the global nutrient crisis.

The FTCM Protocol seeks to strengthen nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) regulations in the Caribbean region to combat eutrophication, as current domestic wastewater limits omit these nutrients. Following an analysis by the IMA and CIMAB of legislation in twenty countries, a lack of uniformity in discharge criteria was identified, along with the need to standardize which compounds are regulated. Based on international models such as those of Australia and the European Union, specific N and P limits have been proposed for Class I and II waters, thus establishing an initial framework to protect marine ecosystems and improve regional environmental management.

Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) seeks to balance socioeconomic well-being with ecosystem sustainability by addressing, in a coordinated manner, the management of water, soil, and human-caused pollutants that impact areas from watersheds to coastlines. Despite its importance, the Greater Caribbean region faces critical barriers to its implementation, such as a lack of funding and fragmented governance. Therefore, regional centers like the IMA and CIMAB propose integrating this approach into the Cartagena Convention.