Technology is a critical pillar needed for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to combat the damaging effects of climate change.

And, Minister of the Environment and Drainage, Dr. Denis Lowe, has made it clear that technological integration was a fundamental component of all efforts to respond to climate change.

Speaking during a three-day Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) Training workshop for National Designated Entities at the Radisson Aquatica Resort on Tuesday, Dr. Lowe said such thinking applied to efforts at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation efforts.

However, he noted that: ???For us to be successful in this endeavour, Small Island Developing States need to address the legislative, institutional, social, attitudinal, economic, situational, and cultural barriers to the development and transfer of technology whether they exist at the national, regional or international levels.???

He added that access by SIDS to appropriate, reliable, affordable, modern and environmentally-sound technology was critical to achieving their sustainable development goals, and fostering an environment that provided incentives where science, technology and innovation were essential enablers and drivers.

In that regard, the Minister told participants that the CTCN was ???open for business???. He noted that its services were available not just to governmental agencies, but also academic institutions, non-profit organisations and the private sector.??However, Dr. Lowe urged participants to obtain assistance from the CTCN to mainstream climate change considerations into national development planning.

At the same time, he reminded them that the assistance required went beyond funding or physical technology. ???There are other enabling mechanisms ??? like institutional building and strengthening and other enabling actors, that can allow us to continue to plow forward.?????Our very lives depend on it. The lives and the future of those who will come after us depend on it???,??? the Minister pointed out.

The CTCN forms part of the operational arm of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Technology Mechanism, and consists of the Climate Technology Centre. It promotes the accelerated transfer of environmentally-sound technologies for low carbon and climate resilient development at the request of developing countries.

It also provides technology solutions, capacity building and advice on policy, legal and regulatory frameworks tailored to the needs of individual countries.

julia.rawlins-bentham@barbados.gov.bb

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