This paper provides a sound basis for the consideration of trade in
environmental services in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME)
Zone. In the absence of specific information and data on the
environmental service sector in the CSME, this work is considered as
work in progress. Since the activities which are undertaken in the
Region to produce environmentally sound technologies and goods as well
as services to measure, prevent, limit, minimize or correct
environmental damage to water, air, soil and ecosystems, have not been
regarded as an industry in its own right; a major function of this paper
is to create awareness of the existence of an environmental industry in
the Caribbean Community. It also serves to highlight, that like any
other industry of the regional economy, investment must be made to
sustain sustainability. This is also the case of the environmental
industry. Furthermore, given the multi-dimensional and multi-sectoral
characteristics of the environment, investment in the environment, which
is required, is consequently an investment in the social and economic
development of the CSME.

It is on this philosophical basis that
the work of CaribInvest (West Indies) Limited is grounded. Central to
its philosophy, is the promotion of the Caribbean as a single market
place and in so doing facilitate the utilisation of the region’s assets
efficiently, effectively and where applicable in an environmentally
sensitive and sound manner. CaribInvest (West Indies) Limited employs an
integrated approach in the consideration of the Community’s assets by
linking various elements such as investment, finance and international
trade with proper environmental stewardship. It is within this context,
that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has a very critical role to
play in ensuring that the environmental and natural resources provisions
of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas Establishing the Caribbean
Community Including the CARICOM Single Market and Economy are given the
full effect of Caribbean Community Law.