The United Nations defines the blue economy as an economic model that encompasses various sectors and policies which determine the sustainable use of ocean resources.

Achieving a thriving blue economy involves effective management of fisheries, ecosystem health, and pollution prevention. At the heart of this pursuit lies the challenge of maintaining the delicate balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Changing Tides in

In 2001 I began residing in Bridgeview, Portmore. A community nestled along the waterway leading to Kingston Harbour. The idyllic scenes of fish frolicking in the storm drain and fishermen setting pots to support their livelihoods have transformed over the years. The once pristine blue waters now bear the burden of sewage discharge, an issue persisting for more than four years from a malfunctioning sewage pump in an adjacent community.

Despite efforts by the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), the Member of Parliament, the councillor, and other stakeholders, the problem persists as of September 2022. The impact on the local ecosystem is stark, raising concerns about the urgency, or lack thereof, with which the Government is addressing this environmental crisis.

Urgent Need for Action

As a concerned citizen I urge the Government to take immediate measures to rectify the ongoing sewage issue. With the expansion of communities and businesses in Portmore, the environmental consequences have extended beyond Bridgeview. I would like to emphasise the potential risks to public health, such as outbreaks of diseases, as a plausible consequence of inaction.

The economic implications are equally significant. I believe that a depleted fish economy could jeopardise the livelihoods of local fishermen, subsequently affecting employment statistics, crime rates, and other socio-economic factors.

The underutilised Kingston Harbour which is being impacted — the seventh-largest harbour globally — could serve as an entertainment hub, fostering recreational activities that could contribute to the local economy.

Environmental Impact and Sustainable Blue Economy

Jamaica should shift towards a sustainable blue economy, aligning with the United Nations’ vision of economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental preservation. Sustainability must be placed at the core of decision-making, ensuring policies complement rather than undermine each other. With Portmore aspiring to become a parish, addressing the sewage problem becomes pivotal to enhancing environmental quality and ensuring the safety of its residents.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by Jamaica’s geographical landscape, I would also like us to focus our attention on climate change and its implications. Despite financial constraints, the Government must prioritise infrastructure improvements to safeguard the environment and build a resilient community. Let us consider planting more trees to keep our environment cool as we seek to erect more physical infrastructure. The blue economy, both economic and sustainable, holds the key to making Jamaica, and Portmore in particular, an ideal place to live, work, and raise families.

Blue Economy Prospects

Since May 2023 there has been a growing recognition among government officials, corporate Jamaica, non-governmental organisations, and investors that Jamaica has yet to fully tap into its potential to benefit from a blue economy.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining Floyd Green, in his presentation at the International Fisherman’s Day Symposium in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, highlighted that the local fisheries sector suffered losses of up to US$23.1 million from both local and overseas markets, leading to higher input costs and significant increases in operational expenses during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. (
Jamaica Information Service, July 20, 2023) It would be beneficial to conduct another study post-COVID-19 to assess if the local fisheries sector has experienced even greater losses.

Currently, as Jamaica strives to improve its blue economy, it is crucial to ensure that all corporate entities and government bodies align themselves with environmentally friendly practices. Corporate Jamaica must prioritise proper disposal of chemicals and waste, while the Jamaican people should be more mindful of how they dispose of garbage. When we visit developed countries we adhere to their litter laws, so there is no reason we cannot do the same in our own country.

Restoring the Kingston Harbour is a collective effort, requiring contribution from every living being. We need dedicated watchdogs to maintain a safe and clean environment.

Imagine the beauty of Sunday evenings when Jamaicans can enjoy water sport entertainment/activities along our shores, attracting international interest and investment. Such events would not only enhance our blue economy but also provide opportunities for recreational activities, cultural exchange, and economic growth.

By harnessing the potential of our coastal resources and promoting sustainable practices, Jamaica can create a thriving blue economy that benefits both the environment and its people.

Call for Accountability and Stakeholder Participation

I am calling for greater accountability from all relevant agencies to address the sewage problem affecting numerous Portmore residents. All streams, rivers, and waterways lead into our harbour or the Caribbean Sea. I beseech stakeholders to move beyond discussions and take concrete actions to rectify the chronic situation.

With the residents of Bridgeview seeking to bring attention to the issue, active participation from all stakeholders becomes imperative in realising the community’s aspirations. If we address each community’s sewage woes, this will limit the impact on the Kingston Harbour and prevent the expensive venture of having to clean it.

The journey towards a blue economy in Jamaica requires a concerted effort to balance economic development with environmental sustainability. The challenges faced in Bridgeview, Portmore, serve as a microcosm of the broader issues that need urgent attention. There is need for prompt government action, stakeholder participation, and a commitment to building a sustainable future for Jamaica.

Only through a collective and determined effort can the vision of a blue economy be realised, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious coexistence of people and the ocean.

Althea Newell Morrison is strategic planning manager at Caribbean Maritime Institute. Send comments to altheadianthenewell@gmail.com.