The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), in collaboration with Grenada’s Ministry of Education, Human Resources, and the Environment, recently hosted national exhibition and fair Climate Fest as part of a sub-regional effort to promote sustainable development initiatives throughout the Eastern Caribbean.
Held at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort from 25 April 2017, Climate Fest treated visitors to a ‘green atmosphere’ of garden replicas and colourful displays under the theme of “Accelerating Sustainable Development: Addressing Challenges, Creating Opportunities.” It also highlighted the key climate change concerns facing the region, and the steps that are being taken to ensure a proper response.
The Climate Fest coincided with the first Sub-Regional Structured Dialogue organized by the Governments of Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda, as well as the OECS Commission and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Coordinated under the theme “Accelerating Direct Access to Climate Finance in the Eastern Caribbean,” the Dialogue, which was also held in Grenada between 24 and 26 April 2017, examined the ways in which Eastern Caribbean states can leverage greater funding to support the implementation of climate change awareness projects.
The Dialogue preceded the 4th Council of Ministers Meeting for OECS member states between 27 and 28 April 2017 and presented recommendations and solutions to environmental issues and concerns affecting Small Island Developing States (SIDS).