As the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) pursues the blue economy as a feature of its economic development strategy, it recognises that marine biodiversity conservation, restoration of ecosystems, and the reduction of plastic pollution, are critical to this effort.

Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Health, Wellness, the Environment and Civil Service Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda, chaired the recently held 118th Special Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), that emphasised environmental and natural resources governance, sustainable ocean-based economic development and strengthening the Community’s approach to biodiversity management.

The Chair spoke with the Communications Unit on the sidelines of the special meeting. Listen as he explains the far-reaching consequences of plastic pollution on the health and development of CARICOM Member States and why there must be a policy to tackle it.