Senior representatives of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center (CCCCC) visited the IAEA and its laboratories to discuss areas for cooperation with the Agency. The Center, based in Belize, was established in 2002 by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government and officially opened in August 2005. The CCCCC plays an important role in coordinating the Caribbean region’s response to climate change, working on effective solutions to combat the environmental impacts of climate change and global warming through numerous projects and scientific research. The visit of the CCCCC took place 30 October to 3 November.
The CCCCC delegation, led by CCCCC Executive Director, Kenrick Leslie, included Ulric Trotz, Deputy Executive Director and Science Adviser, Mark Byone, Assistant Executive Director and Head of the Programme Development and Management Unit, Donneil Cain, Project Development Specialist, Keith Nichols, Senior Project Manager and Sharon Lindo, Policy Adviser. The delegation first visited the IAEA Environment Laboratories in Monaco, where they learned about the IAEA’s work relating to the marine environment.
David Osborn, Director of the laboratories, welcomed the delegates and provided an overview of how various nuclear and isotopic techniques can contribute to Member States’ efforts to protect the environment. Monitoring the presence of marine contaminants and understanding the impact of ocean acidification are among several potential areas for cooperation between the CCCCC and the IAEA which were subsequently discussed. The CCCCC delegation also highlighted the need to connect environmental challenges in the Caribbean with the socioeconomic issues of the region.
This was followed by a tour of the Monaco laboratories to see first-hand how scientists at the IAEA can assist Member States by providing the necessary information for more precise and effective environmental management, and by building Member State capacities in applying nuclear technology in this field.
The Caribbean region’s primary concern is adapting to climate change and events such as the recent hurricane. The IAEA has exposed us to new methods, techniques and tools developed by its laboratories in Monaco and Seibersdorf to address these issues with regards to sustainable development.