Grenada, Japan talk Environmental Cooperation

St. George’s, October 11, 2011 – Grenada and Japan have held discussions on ways for further collaboration on environmental-related matters.

The latest round of discussions took place Monday between visiting Japanese Ambassador for Civil Society, Akira Yamada, and Honourable Joseph Gilbert, Minister for the Environment, Foreign Trade and Export Development.

It was Mr. Gilbert’s first official engagement as Environment Minister, following a breakfast welcoming reception hosted by his staff.

During their meeting, Minister Gilbert and Ambassador Yamada examined a number of issues, including the impact of climate change on vulnerable islands such as Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

The ambassador noted that Japan itself is also an island and faces many similar environmental problems to Grenada’s.  He pledged to work with Grenada on identifying areas of convergence in the environment portfolio.

The two sides also discussed the possibility of Japan sharing technology for renewable energy options with Grenada’s Energy Unit, and in providing expertise in coastal and biodiversity management and in conservation matters.

Ambassador Yamada, accompanied by officials of the Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority, also visited the Perseverance dumping site in St. George’s.

Solid waste management, as well as water availability and infrastructure development in the Grenada water sector, were also part of the discussions held with the Japanese Ambassador, who is Deputy Director General for Global Issues.

Global Issues is a non-governmental world organization concerned with environmental, social, political and economic issues – including poverty, racism and food and agriculture – and their effects on people and nations.

Photo: Minister for the Environment Hon. Joseph Gilbert and Deputy Director General for Global Issues, Akira Yamada


Source: Kareen Morain, Ministry of Environment, Foreign Trade & Export Development