By Andrew Laidley
Jamaica is slated to make a comprehensive green investment strategy presentation during the upcoming 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as the Conference of the Parties (COP30), in Belém, Brazil, later this year.
This was disclosed by minister without portfolio in the ministry of economic growth and job creation, Matthew Samuda, who indicated that the strategy would feature fundable projects aligned with international financial institutions and multilateral partners.
He was speaking during Tuesday’s (March 25) opening ceremony for Jamaica’s National COP30 Consultation at the AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston.
The strategy is among several key engagements being pursued or undertaken by the Government that are designed to address climatic/environmental challenges affecting the island.
“Jamaica intends to re-establish its leadership in climate action with significant milestones in decarbonisation and ocean-related initiatives,” the minister stated.
Samuda also indicated that over the next 18 months, 11 pieces of legislation are expected to be finalised to ensure Jamaica’s laws are fit for purpose in relation to climate resilience. He also announced that progress on renewable energy project implementation includes plans for 145 megawatts of capacity.
In addition, Samuda advised of plans to support the University of the West Indies (UWI) with resources for a water lab and supercomputer capacity by next year, through engagement with the Public Investment Appraisal Branch (PIAB).
“Research and scientific capacity are pillars in the fight against climate change.” Samuda reaffirmed Jamaica’s commitment to sustainability, adaptation and global cooperation in the fight against climate change. This, he said, is against the background of Jamaica and other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) being at a critical crossroads, facing disproportionate impacts from climate change.
The minister reiterated recent climate extremes, including record-breaking droughts, soaring temperatures and intense rainfall that have adversely impacted Jamaica’s infrastructure and economy. These challenges, he maintained, demand urgent adaptation measures and fast-tracked projects to meet decarbonisation targets.
Samuda highlighted Jamaica’s ambitious commitments under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), including rejecting environmentally harmful projects such as coal plants and large-scale investments that would degrade natural ecosystems. He explained that these decisions reflect Jamaica’s moral responsibility to prioritise long-term sustainability over short-term economic gains.
“We are at a crossroads where we must balance economic growth with sustainability. The decisions we’ve made are not easy but are necessary for our future resilience,” minister Samuda stated. He further underscored the importance of collective action among SIDS, Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations and other global partners to strengthen negotiating positions at COP30.
“The COP process must work. Failure is simply not an option when adaptation costs exceed our economic capacity. We must drive international partners to deliver on their commitments while pushing for greater ambition in agreements,” Samuda maintained.
Jamaica’s National COP30 Consultation marks a critical step in preparing for impactful contributions at the conference, slated for November.
“This forum [on Tuesday] kick-starts our activities for the year. There’s a lot of work to be done between now and Belém,” minister Samuda said.
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