Minister of Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology, and Vocational Training, Hon. Shawn Edward represents Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre at an ongoing Regional Heads of Government Meeting in the Bahamas to discuss the Caribbean’s position on Climate Change Mitigation ahead of the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27).
The agenda for this inaugural event will also focus on renewable energy, energy security, climate adaptation, climate financing, loss and damage due to tropical weather systems and establishing a framework for the sale of carbon credits. Delegates attending COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland, in December 2021 signed off on a global climate agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and counter global warming by limiting the temperature rise on Earth to a 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold.
The global warming phenomenon has been linked to more frequent and aggressive hurricanes in the Caribbean, which have subjected the region to billions of dollars in damage and bound countries to burdensome loan commitments. Between 16th – 17th August, Saint Lucia and other Caribbean territories facing this same threat level will have the opportunity to consider recommendations and discuss options.
At the conclusion of the meeting, a Chair’s Summary will be made available detailing the scope of the discussions as well as key messages and ideas that emerge. Additionally, the region plans to launch an initiative at COP27 to advance advocacy efforts on behalf of Caribbean States.