OECS Commission convenes 4th Meeting of Environment Ministers in Grenada

OECS Media Release

The 4th Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Environmental Sustainability (COMES) of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) will take place in Grenada from April 27 to 28, under the theme “Accelerating Sustainable Development: Addressing Challenges and Creating Opportunities.”

The high-level Meeting will be chaired by Hon. Sen. Simon Stiell, Minister of State Responsible for Human Resource Development & The Environment, Grenada. Dr. The Right Honourable Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada and Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS Commission are expected to address the opening ceremony.

At this 4th Meeting of the COMES, OECS Environment Ministers will consider a number of matters, including improving the region’s ability to access available climate finance; transitioning to a blue, or ocean-based, economy; and promoting renewable energy development.

As a part of the Meeting, Ministers will also visit the Coral Gardening project in the Grand Anse Bay where UN Environment is working closely with the Government of Grenada to rebuild a damaged reef by replanting coral. Reinforcing the reef that protects the Grand Anse Bay will prevent further loss of the beach, which is one of Grenada’s premier tourism assets.

It is the hope that the Coastal Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) project will improve understanding among national stakeholders on the multiple benefits that are provided to local communities, and—broadly the national economy—from their coastal ecosystems, and of the need to protect these valuable assets to help reduce vulnerability to Climate Change impacts.

The 4th COMES Meeting was preceded by the first Sub-regional Structured Dialogue in the Eastern Caribbean with the Green Climate Fund, held in Grenada from April 24 to 26.

It is expected that both meetings will provide concrete outcomes and recommendations that will contribute to the sustainable development of the sub-region through improved environmental management, increased sustainability practices and minimised vulnerability. The Meetings also offer an opportunity to strengthen regional partnerships in environment-related matters.

An exhibition on Climate Resilient Initiatives is also running parallel to the meetings, from April 25-27 at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort, which is open to schools and the general public.