Minister Pickersgill Calls for Balance in Development Process

Minister of Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Robert Pickersgill, has called for balance in the development process as one way of managing the effects of Climate Change.

The Minister said creative ways must be found to pursue economic development while minimizing risks to the environment and natural resources. He argued that this can be done through building awareness in individuals and communities.

Mr. Pickersgill was speaking on March 21, at an exhibition at Devon House, St. Andrew, held as part of activities to mark the International Day of Forests, and World Water Day, being observed across the globe on March 22; and ahead of World Meteorological Day on March 23.

He pointed out that sustainable development means a better future for the generations to come.

“With a growing population and finite resources, we need to plan effectively for the future, especially in light of the growing threats of the impacts of Climate Change,” he added.

The Minister noted that without appropriate planning, conditions will further endanger the water sources, agriculture and fisheries, health and sanitation, infrastructure and the built environment.

He also stressed the need for all concerned to be involved in mitigation efforts.

“With our climate changing, we need to adjust our disaster preparedness and mitigation plans accordingly. Of necessity, that means embracing new ideas and more innovative methods of carrying out our mandates, as well as conducting our core business more efficiently and effectively.”

The Minister expressed gratitude to the country’s international partners, the United Nation Development Programme (UNDP); United States Agency for International Development (USAID); Inter-American Development Bank (IDB); World Bank; and the Korean International Co-operation Agency;  for their continued support in the country’s Climate Change mitigation campaign.