Climate change, a key consideration
Eight years on, the plan is in motion, with climate change considerations an essential part of the mix.
“We would be negligent if we did not prepare for unprecedented weather events. The NSP will address the major challenges of climate and disaster risks, while protecting the environment, improving natural resources management and enhancing the quality of the built environment. The NSP will guide spatial planning and development at the national, sub-national and local levels by guiding the preparation of local development plans and development orders,” Sewell revealed.
Professor Michael Taylor, physicist and head of the Climate Studies Group, Mona, is pleased.
“From my understanding of what is to be achieved, the incorporation of the latest and best knowledge of how climate change will impact Jamaica in the development of a national spatial plan is a welcomed move,” he told The Gleaner.
“As climate change scientists, we have long argued that climate change is a developmental issue for SIDS (small island developing states) like Jamaica, and that climate change information and science must be mainstreamed into developmental planning. To the extent that this represents a recognition of this, makes this a significant announcement, not just because it means the message is getting across, but because, if the stated objectives are achieved, it will help in the building of a more resilient Jamaica to the impacts of climate change,” he added.
The technical papers – to be developed by the UK-based climate change adaptation and risk management advisory and analytics company Acclimatise, and local firms Environmental Solutions Limited and Smith Warner International – will focus on social amenities, public utilities infrastructure; human and industrial settlements; environment ecosystems; marine resources; land resources, notably soils and mineral resources; and coastal resources, to include a look at sea level rise, erosion of the coastline/beaches, and salt water intrusion.