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Rickardo Ward of the Ministry and Environment and Drainage (left), Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Daphne Kellman, Head of the Climate Studies Group, Dr. Michael Taylor, Head of the EU Delegation in Barbados, Mickael Barfod and Science Advisor to the CCCCC, Dr. Ulric Trotz at this morning’s opening. (A.Miller/BGIS)??

Barbados is placing emphasis on further developing its early warning systems to address climate extremes, as concerns surrounding climate change continue to grow.

Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of the Environment and Drainage, Daphne Kellman, explained the country was doing so, as it related to atmospheric and ocean climate, to support economic and social considerations for the island.

She made these comments during the official opening of the second regional workshop on Climate Change Modelling and Adaptation in the Caribbean, and the second annual meeting of the Caribbean Climate Modelling Group, in The Roy Marshall Teaching Complex at the University of the West Indies today.

Among the measures being sought are practical solutions for farmers in watersheds who are experiencing negative impacts related to drought, and those affected by floods.

"It is imperative that we understand drainage and precipitation issues, retain excess rainwater where feasible, and augment supply consistently during drought conditions," Ms. Kellman said.

She added that the Coastal Risk Assessment and Management Programme being implemented by the Coastal Zone Management Unit was designed to develop credible models for coastal erosion, storm surges, inundation and cliff stability for extreme events.

In this regard, the Deputy Permanent Secretary said the country wanted to maximise its participation and benefits in the Global Climate Change Alliance Project of the European Union. "From Barbados’ perspective, we welcome this initiative as being supportive of our own Climate Change Policy Framework, and complementary to a series of national programmes already under way," she stated.

julia.rawlins-bentham@barbados.gov.bb

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