Locating utilities underground has been identified by Government among a list of priorities requiring urgent attention to address climate change and protect communities and the economy from natural disasters.
The point was raised by Minister in the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Investment Marsha Caddle, at a round table with senior Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) executives yesterday to identify priority areas on climate change and resilience.
“Compared to larger countries, the Caribbean is now seven times more likely to be hit by a natural disaster, with the average estimated damage six times higher,” Caddle said.
In addition to highlighting the target of a fossil fuel-free economy by 2030, Caddle noted the importance of supporting the early resumption of essential services, “such as through undergrounding of cables or enabling water to be delivered without the grid”.
Upgrading of the island’s network of climate resilient shelters and identifying new approaches for financing and insurance were among matters the minister identified needed urgent action. (HH)
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