Jamaica is reportedly five years ahead of its 2030 goal for safeguarding its land mass.

That’s, according to Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Senator Matthew Samuda.

Samuda cited the success of initiatives like the national tree-planting program, which have significantly contributed to increasing forest cover and meeting international environmental commitments and through which the safeguarding landmass target is being achieved. 

The government has pledged to secure legal protection for 30 per cent of the nation’s land and coastal marine ecosystems by 2030. 

This target is part of a broader strategy to combat biodiversity loss and mitigate climate change effects.

Jamaica’s thrust to attain this target is part of its efforts to align with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework under the Convention on Biological Diversity. 

Protecting Jamaica’s ecosystem

Speaking recently at the Kiwanis Club of Portmore’s 51st anniversary, Minister posited that Jamaica’s ecosystem protection is making significant advancements in renewable energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

A tender process is currently underway to establish new plants that will collectively generate 100 megawatts of clean energy. 

The Government has narrowed down to 12 bidders for its 100 megawatt (MW) renewable energy request for proposal with over 40 companies initially submitting expressions of interest with the process narrowed down to a dozen bidders offering a combined 482MW of renewable energy.

Samuda highlighted the Mona Reservoir Floating Solar Project is set to produce 45 megawatts in its phased implementation, aimed at powering the Mona Treatment Plant complex entirely.

The shift towards renewable energy not only addresses environmental concerns but also brings economic advantages. 

The Minister acknowledged that the removal of taxes on batteries and the decreased costs of solar panels is making it financially feasible for individuals and businesses to invest in solar energy. 

In addition, the government’s investment in electric and Liquefied Natural Gas-powered buses promises to reduce emissions and operational costs for the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) is aiding in the drive of safeguarding its land mass.