DUBAI — Senator Matthew Samuda announced several actions the government will undertake in 2024 and beyond as it contributes to the fight against the global climate crisis.

The Minister without Portfolio with Responsibility for Water, Environment and Climate Change in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, was speaking at the 28th Conference of Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Dubai.

In addition to transitioning to renewable energy sources, targeting approximately 30 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, Senator Samuda announced that come next year, Jamaica is set to receive 100 new buses as the Government seeks to electrify its fleet.

“Jamaica reaffirms its commitment to ambitious mitigation efforts. Recognising the urgency, we pledge to accelerate our transition to renewable energy sources, targeting approximately 30 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030,” the Senator said in his address.

“This we will achieve by the transition of our energy production from a fossil fuel base and move our renewable contribution from 18 per cent currently to 50 per cent by 2030. We have also commenced the electrification of our government fleet starting with 100 buses to be delivered in 2024 with other sectors to follow.”

Highlighting that developing states like Jamaica “bear the disproportionate burden of climate impacts”, Samuda implored the global community to “bolster international cooperation, facilitating the transfer of green technologies to developing nations and call for the phase-out of fossil fuel as a priority.”

“We call for increased support to enhance our adaptive capacity, especially in the areas of water resource management, agriculture, health and infrastructure,” he said. “Keeping in mind that 2023 is currently on track to be the hottest year on record as stated by the Provisional State of the Global Climate Report 2023 by the WMO, underscores the urgent need for increased adaptation action.”

With that said, the Senator said it is important that adaptation financing be the high point of COP28 and “becomes more accessible and tailored to the specific needs of the most vulnerable.”

“Jamaica urges developed nations to fulfil their commitment to mobilise $100 billion annually, with a substantial portion allocated to adaptation efforts. We also advocate for innovative financing mechanisms and the inclusion of the private sector in climate finance initiatives to diversify funding sources,” Samuda continued.

Labelling Jamaica as an active participant in the fight against climate change, Senator Samuda said the country continues to improve its climate action plans and urged other nations to continue their efforts in combating the global climate crisis.