UK Turbocharges Caribbean Climate Fight with £2.7 Million Boost
The UK Government is stepping up to the climate challenge, signing a £2.7 million deal to improve access to climate finance across the Caribbean. Minister for the Caribbean and Americas, David Rutley MP, sealed the deal with the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), delivering on the UK’s COP26 promise.
£11.6 Billion Commitment Targets Small Island Resilience
This latest funding forms part of the Small Island Developing States Capacity and Resilience (SIDAR) Programme, a slice of the UK’s massive £11.6 billion climate finance pledge. SIDAR zeroes in on the unique climate challenges facing Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS), helping them boost access to vital funds and speed up climate-resilient projects.
Breaking Barriers to Climate Cash for CARICOM
- The UK’s support helps Caribbean Community (CARICOM) members tackle hurdles in securing climate finance.
- Non-ODA eligible nations can join in training and lessons learned through virtual sessions.
- A dedicated Help Desk will assist with planning and delivering climate projects.
- Over the next three years, the initiative aims to unlock US$50 million in funding for the region.
- Ready-to-go project grants of US$3 million will kickstart climate action on the ground.
The CCCCC will lead efforts, crafting funding proposals aligned with national priorities for submission to UN climate funds and other global partners.
UK Minister and CCCCC Praise Growing Partnership
“The implementation of this initiative under the SIDAR programme marks an important moment in our collective efforts to combat the impacts of climate change,” said David Rutley MP at the signing on 6 September 2023.
“Through collaboration with the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, the UK is delivering on its promise to unlock greater climate finance, strengthen resilience, and secure a sustainable future for Small Island Developing States, including those in the Caribbean.”
Colin A. Young, Executive Director of the CCCCC, added: “We are pleased to partner with the UK on SIDAR to increase climate finance flows and build resilience across CARICOM Member States. Their commitment is vital in helping our region tackle the escalating impacts of climate change.”
This UK-Caribbean alliance aims to drive sustainable change and secure a climate-resilient future for the region before it’s too late.
