COP President welcomes new ambitious NDC during his visit to Barbados

The COP President, Alok Sharma, has welcomed Barbados’ plans to be fossil fuel free by 2030 during his visit to the country.

Barbados has confirmed its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) which includes reducing the emissions from 7.7 tonnes per year per person to 2.3 tonnes, as well as an unconditional commitment to a fossil-fuel free electricity sector and transport by 2030.

During his two day visit Mr Sharma met with the Prime Minister, Mia Amor Mottley, and senior members of her government to discuss how the two countries can work together ahead of the COP26 summit later this year in Glasgow. They agreed on the need for urgent action to keep 1.5 degrees within reach and to work together to call on G20 countries to step up urgent climate action.

They also agreed to exchange expertise and help identify practical solutions to climate impact challenges, especially those faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Barbados.

Barbados has been a long-time promoter of renewable energy and Mr Sharma met with leaders from across the industry who are involved in implementing a clean energy transformation across the country.

He also saw first hand the challenges faced by the vital tourism industry in his visit to the Sir Richard Haynes Boardwalk. To combat the effects of climate change and help protect the world-famous Barbadian beaches, the boardwalk provides coastal stabilisation, flood protection, water quality control and recreational services.

The UK understands the vulnerability and challenges faced by small island developing states (SIDS) and Mr Sharma reaffirmed the commitment to advocate for them in the run up to COP26.

Mr Sharma said:

“Barbados continues to show climate change leadership and I welcome their announcement of an enhanced NDC and their ambitious commitment to be free from fossil fuels by 2030.

“As COP President I am committed to working closely with those countries who are the most vulnerable to the devastation climate change can cause, and these are often the countries who are causing the least damage.

“I am committed to ensure those voices are heard loudly and everyone understands the challenges they are facing. Together we are calling on all G20 countries to deliver urgent climate action for the sake of climate vulnerable communities across the world.

“The COP26 summit later this year is our best chance of safeguarding the planet for everyone, building a brighter future and keeping the 1.5C target alive.”