As weather events appear to become more extreme, the issue of climate change continuously nears the forefront of world issues.
During a press conference at the Hilly Ewing Building on Wednesday, September 12th, 2018, the Premier announced that the Turks and Caicos finally has a climate change policy.
Little has been circulated about the policy since then.
RTC caught up with the Director of the Premier’s Office and Chairman of the Climate Change Committee, Mr. Ronlee James, on Friday, October 19th, to learn more about the policy and what it entails.
Mr. James told RTC that the climate change policy was passed in Cabinet 2 weeks ago and that it would be made available to the public during the month of November when TCI observes Environmental Awareness Month.
Mr. James explained that the policy details how each Ministry will contribute to the mitigation of climate change and how the country as a whole will strive toward a climate change initiative.
He explained the policy is guided by the following objectives:
- To educate the wider public on the potential impacts of climate change and the recommended adaptation strategies.
- To ensure the protection and wise use of carbon sinks.
- To enhance and protect human health.
- To conserve and guarantee a sustainable supply of fresh water.
- To increase resilience by adapting to the adverse impacts of climate change.
- To achieve the objectives set in the TCI energy conservation policy and implementation strategy.
- To reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- To achieve greater food security through sustainable agriculture production.
- To encourage the use of green technology.
- To advocate sustainable tourism at all levels.
Mr. James said that Environmental Awareness Month in November will see a series of events and activities that seek to educate the TCI public about climate change, its causes, its risks and the importance of mitigating its impact.
Within the month of November, Mr. James promises, that TCI will also see more climate change-related legislation being taken to Cabinet.
Mr. James said Turks and Caicos Islanders ought to be worried about the issue of climate change and that the issue must be taken seriously in our country and the wider Caribbean.
Though the Turks and Caicos Islands and other small island developing states, do not contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions nor other detriments to the environment, Mr. James explained that there is still much to be gained by reducing our environmental impact. He said that these efforts will send a message to bigger nations who contribute the most to the downfall of the global environment.
“We should practice what we preach,” the Director of the Premier’s Office said.
Source: Allie Capron (RTC News)
