Simpson Bay Lagoon in Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is one of the largest inland lagoons in the Caribbean, a major yachting destination, and home to a Ramsar Wetland of International importance. Landmark work by EPIC student researchers from the University of Amsterdam’s Institute for Environmental Studies, demonstrated that the lagoon contributes resources and services valued at nearly US $20 million per year. This value would be almost completely lost if current environmental degradation continues. EPIC’s interdisciplinary research combined water quality analysis, community surveys and economic valuation. The research also showed that residents are willing to pay a levy that would benefit the Lagoon environment. Results were shared with decision-makers in the government, business, and non-profit sectors to build support for lagoon conservation. Results were also published in the Journal for Nature Conservation.