Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change Matthew Samuda, today urged global action at the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7), citing hurricane losses equivalent to approximately 41% of Jamaica’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“By now, you would all be aware of the devastation associated with the passage of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. In one day, our quality, and way of life were severely, and some may say irreversibly affected, having experienced over US$8.8 billion in damage, which is equivalent to approximately 41% of the country’s GDP,” the Minister stated.

Speaking at the session being held in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme ‘Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet’, Samuda underscored the existential threats facing Jamaica and other SIDS, citing the devastating impact of recent climate disasters.

The minister detailed that Hurricane Melissa caused severe damage to 51% of the country’s Primary Forests. He positioned this disaster not as an isolated event, but as the latest blow in a relentless four-year onslaught of climate extremes. He noted that over the last four years, Jamaica has experienced all aspects of the triple planetary crisis with extreme impact.

“Jamaica has experienced two tropical storms, Category 4 Hurricane Beryl, and now Melissa. In that period, we also experienced our hottest and wettest day on record, and our worst, third and fourth worst droughts. All of this has led to deteriorating soil quality, reduced pollination rates, and saltwater intrusion in our water sources,” the minister added.

Despite these challenges, Minister Samuda reaffirmed Jamaica’s steadfast commitment to global environmental goals and local resilience-building efforts. He highlighted several recent national achievements, which include the ratification of the BBNJ Agreement; submission of updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Emission Reduction; expansion of protected areas to 25% terrestrial and 15% marine, with the 30×30 target in mind; and the introduction of new regulations banning additional single-use plastics.

The minister strongly advocated for global recognition of the vulnerabilities facing small island states. “The multi-dimensional vulnerability index is critical for SIDS and Least Developed countries (LDC), which also strengthens our resolve to maintain the recognition of the special circumstances of SIDS.”

Samuda emphasised Jamaica’s commitment to partnering with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and global stakeholders, highlighting the nation’s focus on innovation and practical solutions. He reiterated that Jamaica will continue to play an active role in advancing efforts for a resilient and sustainable planet for all.