Barbados

Limited access to natural resources, coupled with vulnerability to climate change as a small island developing state, contributes to Barbados’ need to build a resilient economy that integrates ecological, economic and social well-being. The Government made strong commitments to sustainable development through social compacts with the private sector and trade unions and strategic frameworks, such as the National Sustainable Development Policy, the National Strategic Plan (2006-2025) (NSP) and the 2007 Green Economy policy framework.

Barbados joined PAGE in 2016, to support the implementation of the NSP and related green economy objectives. After initial delays and a change in administration, PAGE officially re-engaged in late 2018 and key themes for PAGE work were confirmed in September 2019. These include green and blue jobs, youth engagement, environmental goods and services, resource efficiency in industry, and strengthening individual and institutional capacity for Inclusive Green Economy at the tertiary levels.

As Barbados experienced significant economic and environmental shocks, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, PAGE developed targeted activities focused on boosting the circular economy and promoting green consumption and production practices to support green economic recovery.