Antigua and Barbuda, the beautiful twin islands of the Caribbean, are known for their warm hospitality and rich culture. But there’s a lingering concern among locals—climate change is impacting their lives. From fishermen to parents, the challenges are clear: hurricanes, flooding, and rising sea levels threaten the future of the islands.
To tackle these issues, Antigua and Barbuda are making bold moves. The country is focusing on innovative financing, smart energy planning, and improved ocean governance. The Commonwealth Secretariat is lending a hand to support these efforts.
Clean Energy Goals
Currently, Antigua and Barbuda rely heavily on imported fossil fuels, which come with high costs and security risks. By 2030, the aim is to switch completely to renewable energy. The Commonwealth Secretariat is helping attract investments to achieve this goal.
Recognizing the challenges small island states face, including geographic isolation and limited resources, two Clean Energy Toolkits were developed. The first toolkit, created in partnership with Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), focuses on greening the power sector. The second toolkit targets cleaner transport options.
This year, the transport toolkit was implemented to help policymakers develop business cases for cleaner transport. A significant outcome is the decision to convert the government’s fleet of 180 vehicles to electric ones. To promote electric vehicle (EV) use, the government will limit the import of conventional vehicles and offer financial incentives. This change will make clean transport more accessible.
Inclusive Financing for Climate Resilience
The Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub (CCFAH) is helping Antigua and Barbuda create financing options that consider gender impacts. The Sustainable Island Resource Framework (SIRF) Fund, established in 2019, reserves 40% of its funding for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with at least 30% women ownership or workforce participation.
By 2050, the goal is to boost access to climate finance for low-carbon businesses and increase the use of renewable energy among women-led enterprises by 20%. This ensures that women and vulnerable communities are included in the shift to sustainable energy.
Ocean Conservation Efforts
Antigua and Barbuda are making strides in ocean governance. Recently, the country received support for maritime boundary delimitation, enhancing marine rights and limits. This effort culminated in successful negotiations with France and the UK, strengthening the country’s ability to manage marine resources.
While the land covers about 440 km², the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extends over 111,500 km². This vast area offers potential for economic growth through the blue economy. In 2024, Antigua and Barbuda will also host the Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE), a collaboration with the University of the West Indies and the Commonwealth Secretariat, aiming to enhance marine science and capacity.
Looking Ahead
Antigua and Barbuda are shining examples of what partnerships can achieve, even for small island states. In one year, as the world prepares for COP31, the islands will host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. This event will spotlight the resilience of small island developing states and promote global dialogue on their urgent challenges.
With sound strategies and support, Antigua and Barbuda are paving the way for a sustainable future.
