Prime Minister Andrew Holness says Jamaica has enhanced its nationally determined contribution to target a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
“We, like all Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and many developing countries, remain committed to advancing climate action and we are determined to build forward stronger, better and greener,” he said while addressing the opening of a two-day virtual conference on Thursday, April 22.
Holness said Jamaica is also “greatly encouraged by the United States (US) announcement to cut emission by half”, and is heartened that the U.S. has rejoined the Paris Agreement, which is an important expression of global solidarity for climate action.
The prime minister stressed that it is critical that the world’s commitment of $100 billion per year to support climate action in developing countries is not only honored but that the ambition be increased and major emitters should contribute more to its financing.
“We welcome President [Joseph] Biden’s announcement in this regard. I encourage all governments to play their part in achieving this goal, and the private sector must also be engaged,” he said.
In the meantime, Holness noted that while some progress has been made, “significant hurdles remain” in terms of developing countries having greater and equitable access to climate financing.
“While increasing the quantum of financing is necessary, it will not be sufficient to address the needs of SIDS unless it is accessible and flexible enough to [provide] support for our vulnerabilities,” Holness said.
