natural resources and environmental managment - june 2009

8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009

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SECTOR PLAN

2009 - 2030

NATURAL RESOURCES AND

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT &

HAZARD RISK REDUCTION AND

CLIMATE CHANGE


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Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 2

VISION 2030 JAMAICA: NATIONALDEVELOPMENT PLAN

COMBINED SECTOR PLANNATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT &

HAZARD RISK REDUCTION AND CLIMATECHANGE

Prepared by the Natural Resources aEnvironmental Management & the Hazard R

Reduction and Climate Change Task Forc

June 20


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Page NumbersList of Acronyms

Chapter 1: Setting the Context 4

Chapter 2: Situational Analysis 10

Chapter 3: SWOT Analysis 23

Chapter 4: Strategic Vision and Planning Framework 28

Natural Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard RiskReduction & Climate Change Indicators and Targets

33

Chapter 5: Implementation Framework and Action Plan 36

Long Term Action Plan 2009 2030 38

Table of Contents


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Introduction

Jamaicas economic development and livelihoods and

patterns of settlement have been closely tied to the natural

resource base of the island. In a relatively small area the

island has an array of coastal and terrestrial resources,

including tropical ecosystems, forests, dry limestone

forests, scrub, coastal - etc. The description land of wood

and water speaks to the forest cover and water resources,

some of which have been degraded.

Natural resources of the land, air and water may be viewed

as capital, providing essential services for economic and

social development. The functions of a healthy

environment such as nutrient cycling, flood control,

climate control, soil productivity, forest health, pollination,

waste assimilation and natural pest control underpin

economic development and sustain human health. Ahealthy, natural environment is a fundamental basis for

sustainable development and human survival.

The economic and social well-being of Jamaica is directly

linked to the state of its natural resources and the quality of

the environment. The islands economic activities

(tourism, mining etc.) if not carefully undertaken, can negatively impact on the quality of

the environment and natural resources. For example, the tourism sector can be negatively

impacted if the natural environment is degraded. There is the need to consider resource

utilization in more sustainable terms. Additionally, each of Jamaicas important economic

sectors therefore has significant environmental aspects and impacts. In spite of the

interdependence between the Jamaica economy and the natural environment, there is

Main Challenges - Jamaicas

Natural Environment

Some of the main challenges beingexperienced in Jamaicas naturalenvironment include:

Proneness to natural and man-madehazards

Inadequate incorporation ofenvironmental issues into sectoralpolicies

Inadequate emphasis on preventivemaintenance

SquattingRapid urbanizationLack of support by citizenry and

political directorate for sustainabledevelopment commitments

Relevant agencies do not buy intointegrated approach to environmentalmanagement

Inadequate financial resourcesJamaicas location, geology and

geography make the island prone toseveral natural hazards. The majorthreats include landslides, hurricanes,floods, droughts and earthquakes.These hazards when combined withsituations of high vulnerability usuallyresult in disasters of varying severity.

Chapter 1: Setting the Context


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evidence of a tendency to undervalue natural capital. The result is lack of sustainable use

of resources leading to resource depletion and environmental degradation.

There is therefore need to consider resource utilization in more sustainable terms.

TABLE 1: ECOSYSTEMS GOODS AND SERVICES

ECOSYSTEM GOODS SERVICESAgro-ecosystem Food Crops

Genetic resources Habitat Build Soil Organic Matter Carbon Sequestration Employment

Coastal and MarineEcosystem

Fish & Shell Fish Genetic resources Storm Moderation (mangroves) Wildlife Habitat

Biodiversity Maintenance Aesthetic enjoyment & recreation Employment

Forest Ecosystems Timber Fuelwood Genetic resources Drinking &

Irrigation Water

Non-timberProducts

Pollution control, Oxygen Emission Watershed Maintenance Carbon Sequestration Biodiversity Maintenance Soil Production Habitat Employment

Aesthetic enjoyment &recreation

FreshwaterEcosystem

Drinking &Irrigation Water

Food Genetic resources

Waste Assimilation Habitat Cycle nutrients Transport corridor Carbon Sequestration Aesthetic enjoyment and recreation

Although Jamaica has made substantial improvements in environmental management,

many challenges still remain and need to be addressed. Recent evaluations of the state of

the environment indicate that there is a number of worrying trends. Among these are:

deteriorating air and water quality, poor management of solid, liquid and hazardous

wastes, loss of biodiversity, watershed degradation and net loss of forests cover and

increasing incidence of fires.


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The current state of the Jamaican environment is a concern for both state and non-state

actors. Additionally, the many complexities and unique features of the Jamaican

environment require a focus on strategies that can be utilized to ensure that the countrys

developmental objectives are compatible with the natural environment and in keeping

with the tenets of sustainable development. In recognition of the importance of the

aforementioned, many of governments sectoral policies over the past ten to twelve years,

have reflected the importance of sustainability and seek to take into account social

environmental and economic factors. The main planning instrument for environmental

conservation and sustainable development is the Jamaica National Environmental Action

Plan (JANEAP).

Actions taken to fulfill human needs are increasingly being recognized to have local,

regional and global environmental consequences. Jamaica situation is not unique to this,

and as a result tremendous time and effort is being spent on sensitizing and educating the

population on issues related to the environment; improvements in existing legislation and

the formulation of new policies. Actions geared towards sustainability are particularly

important for a small island state such as Jamaica, as there is a close relationship between

the ecological, economic and social systems.

Additionally, over the last two decades, natural hazards have had significant impact on

economic activities, property, human welfare and natural resources. Between 1991 and

2005, six major events resulted in losses estimated at J$53.03 billion, an average of US$

J$ 8.8 billion per event. Disasters have potentially significant implications for public

finance, increasing expenditure, reducing domestic revenue and in turn resulting in

increased domestic and external borrowing. There are few options to reduce the

occurrence and intensity of most natural hazards. As such greater emphasis needs to be

placed on hazard risk management activities and programmes for reducing existing and

future vulnerability to damage and loss. A natural hazard mitigation policy has been

developed and approved by Cabinet. This policy however, needs to be complemented by

an action plan. Among the more urgent priorities are hazard data collection and mapping,

vulnerability assessment, risk assessment, watershed management and risk transfer


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measures such as insurance.

Jamaica has initiated various policy responses to address environmental and planning

issues new policies, strategies and action plans, laws and regulations, and becoming

party to several multilateral and regional environmental agreements. Notwithstanding,

much of the problems hindering progress in the environment and sustainable

development arena relate to the inadequate policy, legislative and institutional capacity in

critical areas of the system. In addition to a number of general outdated legislation, a

critical issue is the inadequate enforcement of existing legislation. Another issue is that

relevant institutions involved in environmental management lack the capacity (financial,

human, physical) to effectively execute their mandates and are unable to deal with the

complex nature of current problems. Some of this is manifested in the level of post-permit and on-going monitoring and in the countrys inability to effectively use market-

based incentives or disincentives to improve environmental management.

Vision 2030 Sector Plan Planning ProcessThis Sector Plan for Natural Resources and Environmental Management is premised on a

vision shared by hundreds of Jamaicans on the state of the natural environment and the

importance of protecting and preserving it and the important roles society can collectively

play in shaping the planning process to 2030. Additionally, incorporated in this sector

plan is a set of adaptation strategies to better enable Jamaica to cope with the impacts

associated with climate change. Climate change is included in this context because of the

many impacts that its effects can have on natural resources and consequently the state of

the natural environment. Reducing disaster risk such as those that can be created by

climate change and protecting the natural environment are complementary and often

involve identical practices1.

Integrating disaster risk reduction, climate change and environmental management is an

appropriate method for addressing disaster as the integration is known to create many

synergies, such as reducing the cost of implementing parallel programmes and activities.

1Subsequent drafts will include a more fulsome discourse on hazards and climate change


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It is one of thirty chapters that would form the foundation for the development of Jamaica

2030 a 25-year plan designed to put Jamaica in a position to achieve developed country

status by 2030. Vision 2030 is based on a fundamental vision to make Jamaica the place

of choice to live, work, raise families, and do business,and on guiding principles which

put people at the centre of Jamaicas transformation.

The preparation of the Plan will be supported by a quantitative systems dynamics model

Threshold 21 (T21) which supports comprehensive, integrated planning that would

enable the consideration of a broad range of interconnected factors along economic,

social and environmental considerations and will be used to project future consequences

of different strategies across a whole range of indicators. In addition, it will enable

planners to trace causes of changes in any variable or indicator back to the assumptions.

The sector plan was developed using the following processes:

Task Force Meetings and Working Group Meetings that were used to solicit ideasand views from members2on natural resources and environmental managementissues and challenges facing Jamaica as well as identifying a vision for the sector,and determining key goals, outcomes, strategies and actions for the sector over theperiod 2008 to 2030

A workshop that enabled the members to focus both on natural resources andenvironmental management issues as well as hazards and climate change

Research on international best practices in natural resources and environmentalmanagement as well as climate change that could be adopted in the Jamaicancontext

Strategic meetings of the working group, along with the chairs of the respectiveTask Forces

This document is structured in the following chapters as follows: Chapter 1: Setting the Context Chapter 2: Situational Analysis Chapter 3: SWOT Analysis Chapter 4: Strategic Vision and Planning Framework for the Natural Resources &

Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction and Climate ChangeSector Plans Chapter 5: Implementation Framework and Action Plan for the Natural Resources

& Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate ChangeSectors

2 See Appendix 1 for List of Members of the Natural Resources and Environmental Management TaskForce, the Hazard Risk Reduction and Climate Change Task Force and the Working Group


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Appendices


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Jamaicas main economic activities tourism, mining, agriculture and fishing rely

significantly on the countrys rich natural resource-base. Notwithstanding, Jamaicas

natural capital is showing signs of degradation. Coral reefs for example, are one of the

foundations of the countrys tourism industry and present a protective barrier against

storms and are sources of food, employment and recreation. However, Jamaicas coral

reefs are in decline with mean coral cover at 10-meter depth3declining from 52% in the

1970s to 3% in the 1990s.4

Although Jamaica has made substantial improvements in environmental management,

many challenges still remain and need to be addressed. Recent evaluations of the state of

the environment indicate that there is a number of worrying trends. Among these are:

deteriorating air and water quality, poor management of solid, liquid and hazardous

wastes, loss of biodiversity, watershed degradation and net loss of forests cover and

increasing incidence of fires. Additionally, while data and analysis of environmental

problems have improved in recent years, serious gaps and a lack of time series data

hamper efforts to use quantitative indicators to spot emerging problems, assess policy

options and gauge the effectiveness of environmental programmes.5

Notwithstanding, Jamaica ranked 54 out of 147 countries in the 2008 Environmental

Performance Index (EPI)6. Jamaica outperformed countries such as the Netherlands

(which placed 9th on the Human Development Index 2007 compared to Jamaicas

position of 101) and along with the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Jamaica are the

leaders in the Caribbean in environmental protection and sustainability.78

3Deeper reefs are in better condition however, overall decline of reefs is a major concern4Country Environmental Assessment for Jamaica 200, IDB52008 Environmental Performance Index. World Economic Forum6Twenty-five environmental indicators build the index which centres on countries environmental performance. TheEPI tracks actual results related to a core set of environmental issues that governments around the world have

prioritized.7'Greener days' in Jamaica by Tony Best Published on: 1/30/08 in the Trinidad Guardian Newspaper8The EPI has two overarching objectives: reducing environmental stresses on human health; and promoting ecosystemvitality and sound natural resource management

Chapter 2: Situational Analysis


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Situational Analysis Overview9

The Situational Analysis presented here represents an overview of the state of the natural environment and is structured accordingly:

Part 1 - Information on the Jamaicas natural habitats and environmental resources (location, area etc.), the state of thesehabitats, issues and challenges related to the habitats and governance/management issues related to each of the habitatsdiscussed.

Part 2 A brief discussion on the possible impacts of climate change on Jamaica

PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS

Key Issues and Challenges & Threats

Related to the Ecosystem Itself

Management and Policy Issues Other Information

Ecosystems

Coastal Zone Fish catches are being reduced by overexploitation

Coastal mangroves, wetlands and seagrass bedswhich provide breeding, feeding and

Nursery grounds for fish and shrimp are beingdestroyed

Lack of awareness, resources and expertise, hasresulted in insufficient research on variousmatters associated with ocean and coastalmanagement i.e. fisheries, coastal ecosystem,

mitigation of non-point source of pollution andsea-bed mining

Since 1998, progress is being made indeveloping broadly adapted management

plans for the ocean and coastal zone

An inventory of marine and coastalresources and conditions has been completed(started in 1995) and will provide baselineinformation for coastal zone managementand development decisions.

A coastal zone resource atlas, as well as aworking computerized Geographic

Information System database, existsMarine protected areas exists, with three of

these being classified as marine parks while

the other two include both land and marineareas.

A National Programme of Action (NPA) toaddress Land-Based Activities and Sources(LBS/LBA)of marine and coastal

The nature of the Jamaicascoastline has given rise to theformation of a unique

ecosystem of harbours, sandybeaches, rocky shores,estuaries, wetlands, and coral

reefs.

To a large extent the countrys

major cities and towns have

developed along the coastlineincluding the capital cityKingston which sits on theseventh largest natural harbour

in the world and the majortourism towns of Montego Bay,Ocho Rios, Negril and PortAntonio, all of which lay along

9A full situational analysis on natural resources and environmental has already been prepared and is available from the PIOJ


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationdegradation exists and provides anintegrated management framework that

enables all relevant national and local actorsto reduce environmental degradation andhabitat damage

the coastline.

Beaches Beach Erosion two main causes: natural andman-made causes

Illegal sand mining is a longstanding problemand continues due to the lack of enforcement

Recreational coastal and marine water quality isinfluenced by several factors including thedischarge of sewage and industrial effluent intothe coastal and marine waters, non-point source

discharges from agricultural activities, urbanrunoff and modifications of natural systems(including the destruction of wetlands),

urbanization and the growth of informalsettlements in coastal areas.

Water sports, boating, yachting, fishing andcommercial shipping activities generate anddischarge wastes into the near shore waters.

Solid waste washed up or dumped on bathingbeaches is a constant problem. Solid waste isderived from many sources including illegaldumping from ships at sea; waste from urban

and agricultural environments washed down inrivers or storm gullies and then carried byinshore currents towards the beaches; wind

driven wastes; and negligence by users of thebeach.

Tourist developments, primarily hotels andresorts along the coastal strip, have leftfewer good beaches available for public use.

There exists few operational public bathingbeaches and commercial recreational

beaches.

There is little documentation on theownership, size and boundaries of most of

the fishing beaches. As a result, conflictshave arisen between fishing groups andother beach users such as hoteliers and

property developers.

Unregulated development of infrastructureon fishing beaches, often results in shanty

villages with poor liquid and solid wastedisposal practices.

The Beach Control Act regulates rights tothe foreshore and the floor of the sea inJamaican waters. Provisions contained in theAct govern commercial and recreational

activities; the control and management ofdevelopment on the beach through licensing

provisions and the protection of the marine

ecosystem.

Jamaicas beaches are amongthe most important naturalresources to the economy. The

beaches of Jamaica are ofinternational renown, and areone of the main factorscontributing to the growth andsuccess of the island's tourist

industry.

Fishing beaches are relativelyevenly distributed along thecoast.

There are eighty-seven (87)

public recreational beachesused by the public for bathing,of which eighteen (18) arecommercial recreational

beaches. There are two hundredand seventy-five beachesassociated with guest houses

and villas, sixty (61) bathingbeaches associated with hotels(Map 2), and one hundred and


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other InformationSquatting is a major problem at fishing beaches. A National Beach Policy for the

Management of the Beach, Foreshore, Floor

of the Sea exists but needs to bepromulgated to effectively guide and

provide the framework for the management

of beaches in Jamaica. Additonally, aJamaica Coral Reef Action Plan and Coral

Reef Policy has been prepared and aNational Policy for the Conservation ofSeagrasses has also been drafted andcomplements the goals and objectives of thecoral reef and the beach policies.

twenty-one (121) fishingbeaches.

Wetlands Coastal wetlands are increasingly threatened byinfrastructure development and conversion fromnatural habitat to other uses.

Conversion of large tracts of coastal wetlands,particularly mangroves, for commercial uses.

Widening and deepening wetland rivers hasreduced the ecological value of these areas by

slowing the run-off of floodwaters. This has ledto an increase in peak fresh water flows tocoastal areas contributing to the death of coral

reefs.

Draining land for agriculture has caused wetlanddestruction.

Reclaiming of landClimate changeFires - wetlands are also destroyed by fires some

of which are spontaneous, while some are

No overarching and coherent policyframework exists for wetland management .A mangrove and coastal wetlands protection

policy was drafted by NRCA from as far

back as 1996, but still remains in draft andawaiting completion.

Wetland management in Jamaica iscomplicated by the fact that most wetlandsare on private lands and the constitutionallows private landowners great latitude in

the use and disposal of their property.

The level of wetland modification approvedby NEPA is a concern being expressed byvarious civil society groupings.

Wetlands at one time comprisedas much as 2% of Jamaicastotal surface area. Today the

area covered by wetlands havebeen reduced significantly, dueprimarily to land filling and

modifications made to thenatural drainage regime in some

locations. It is estimated thatJamaica has lost approximately30% of the islands mangroveforests; currently an area of 106

sq.km is still covered inmangroves.


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationdeliberately set by humans.

Pollutants pollutants directly affectingwetlands include garbage, sewage, industrialwaste (mainly from sugar factories), and oil

spills.

Non-point source pollution by agro-chemicals,nutrients, and other materials used in agricultureLarge scale pumping from coastal aquifers,

which affects the water balance inducing

saltwater intrusion

Coral Reefs In the last 35 years, there has been a preceipitousdrop in coral cover around the island.

Coral diseases & Coral bleachingStorm/hurricane damageExcessive nutrients from sewage pollutionSiltation and poor watershed management

practices

Over-fishing and indiscriminate fishing practicesInappropriate recreational practicesCoastal PollutionDeath of Sea-Urchin the 1983 mass mortality

of the sea urchin (Diadema), an importantspecies in the control algae resulted in

significant coral damage as reefs becameclogged by algal overgrowth.

A draft Coral Reef Protection andPreservation Policy (1997) exists which setsout the framework for the management ofthe islands reefs. This policy also supports

the International Coral Reef Initiative Callto Action and Framework for Action. These

policies remain in draft form.

Need to ensure that an effective managementframework for coral reefs are put in place inlight of their vulnerability to the effects ofclimate change and natural disasters.

Jamaican reefs have high valuebecause of their high

biodiversity and role infisheries, tourism and shoreline

protection. Thus, in addition to

their ecological importance,Jamaicas coral reefs have highsocio-economic, cultural andeducational value, providing a

range of invaluable productsand services.

Fisheries Data on the fishing industry is collectedirregularly and there are many discrepancies

The Fishing Industry Act - The object of theAct is to manage the fisheries resources of

Jamaican fisheries are made uplargely of artisanal fishermen


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationamong the various sources.

The inshore fishery is considered to be severelyoverexploited

The fishery on the Pedro and Morant banks arepartially exploited, considered to be at, or near

their estimated sustainable yield with respect tolobster and conch

Loss of habitat for fish due to coastaldegradation and pollution

Use of destructive fishing gearLack of awareness by fishermen on fisheries

management issues

Poaching by foreign fishing vesselsFishers not respecting closed seasons and other

fisheries regulations

Lack of adequate enforcement

Jamaica. The Act, however, has not keptpace with the evolution of fishing and the

attendant resource management issues, andin this regard, a new Act which will providean institutional framework for the

management, planning, development andconservation of fisheries resources inJamaica is scheduled to be passed soon.

operating from open canoe typeboats powered by either

outboard motors or oars. Asmall number of fishermen, buteconomically significant, are

engaged in industrial fishing(mainly on the Pedro Bank) forconch, spiny lobster and reeffish. There is also a small

commercial sport fisheryassociated with tourism and asmall recreational fishery.

Forest

Ecosystems

In recent years, deforestation has led to thedeterioration of more than a third of Jamaicas

watersheds, drying up streams and rivers

Sixty-four per cent (64%) of Jamaicas forestsare unprotected, are under private ownership or

are Crown Lands.

Jamaicas forest cover has been under seriouspressure for the production of yam sticks,charcoal, resort and residential development,timber extraction, grazing, and cropping. The

lack of soil and water conservation measures hasled to high rates of soil erosion, loss of nutrients,and reduction of water retention capacity in

The last assessment of forest cover inJamaica was undertaken in 1998.

There currently exists a Forestry Policy(2001) which sets out the framework for theconservation and protection of forests.

About 30 percent of Jamaica,approximately 336,000hectares, is classified as forest.

Jamaicas forests are consideredto be a major repository of

biodiversity, especially endemic

flora and fauna.


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationwatersheds. Improper road construction andlogging operations, both legal and illegal, in pine

plantations, have also contributed to theproblem.

The majority of forest land has been disturbedand degraded, and only about 8 percent of theisland remains as natural forest showing little

evidence of human disturbance. Forests arethreatened by industrial, agricultural and urbandevelopment.

Bauxite Mining - the Forestry Department hasstated that bauxite mining is the single largestcause of deforestation in Jamaica. In 50 years ofoperation, the industry has stripped 5,099

hectares of trees, including some 3,218 hectaresof forest.

Watersheds Each of Jamaicas 26 watershed managementunits has portions considered to be degraded,while 10 of these units are considered severelydegraded.

Reduced tree and vegetative cover andproductivity of land

Heavy siltation of rivers, reservoirs, irrigationcanals, water intakes, beaches and harbours

Increased surface runoff (due to excavation ofslopes, diminished vegetation cover, compactedsoils)

Reduced storage and availability of waterSevere flooding, especially during the hurricane

season resulting in considerable losses in life,

Unsuitable farming practices such as over-cultivation of steep slopes has long beenrecognized as the single most important

cause of the degradation of watersheds inJamaica.

Large scale removal of trees from watershedareas, illegal mining, unapproved andinformal quarrying of sand and limestone,housing programmes and squattersettlements has contributed to the high rateof deforestation.

Trees are cut for fuel wood and charcoalproduction, yam sticks and lumber and theproblem is aggravated by forest fires thatoccur during extended periods of drought.


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationagricultural crops and other property anddamage to roads

Increased marine and coastal contamination anddegradation adversely affecting recreational

tourism and economic use of beaches and the

coastal zoneLoss of habitat for important flora for fauna

The 26 watershed management units needingurgent remedial work to bring them back to

an acceptable state of health. This needs tobe done to improve the availability and

quality of water.

The Watershed Protection Act provides aframework for the management ofwatersheds in Jamaica. The 26 watershedmanagement units are declared under theAct.

Biodiversity

and Biological

Resources

14 animal and endemic species and over 200plant endemic species are classified as criticallyimperiled or especially vulnerable to extinction.

Deforestation, wetland destruction and coral reefdegradation have resulted in both the reductionand loss of biodiversity

Population growth, coupled with agricultural,industrial and commercial expansion, has

resulted in intense competition for land.Awareness by the general public and public

sector entities on the importance of biodiversityis limited and in many instances, biodiversityissues are not infused into national and sectoral

policies

Poverty and over-consumption by certain sectorsof the society are contributing to the decline in

biological resources for example, thecommunities closest to the most vulnerable

Jamaicas current environmental legislationprovides a basic framework for theconservation and sustainable use of

biodiversity. There are at least 52 pieces oflegislation which have aspects that directlyrelate to the management of the

environment. However, very few of thesestatutes deal comprehensively with the

protection, conservation and sustainable use

of biodiversity, as they are primarily sectoralin nature.

The Wild Life Protection Act is the onlystatute

10in Jamaica that specifically protects

designated species of animals and regulateshunting in Jamaica.

The Convention on Biological Diversitycreates the framework for Parties toimplement national legislative, policy and

Jamaica has a high level of

plant endemism and has beenrated fifth among islands of theworld for its endemic plants.

Jamaica also has high levels ofendemism for many species ofanimals such as snails, crabs,

amphibians, reptiles and landbirds.

10National Strategy and Action Plan on Biodiversity in Jamaica


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationbiological resources are among the countryspoorest.

administrative measures.

The status of the islands biologicalresources need to be accurately quantified.Whilst data is available on some species,

there exists limited data on the lower plant

orders.Whilst the introduction of exotic species is

regulated, there still exist concerns aboutaccidental introduction of species.

Greater efforts need to be made tounderstand the intrinsic and economic valuesof the countrys biological resources.

Parks and

Protected

Areas

Currently, public understanding of the benefitsfrom conservation and protection is insufficient

Inadequate financing to apply conservation andprotection management in protected areas

Accessing financial resources to undertakeassessments in order to determine the status of

many of the 100 areas that are scheduled to bedeclared as protected areas, and putting into

place interim measures to ensure their

conservation

A policy framework exists for the NationalSystem of Protected Areas. This policydocument is entitled, Policy for JamaicasSystem of Protected Areas.

Marine and national parks provide managerswith an opportunity to control activities

likely to impact negatively on the resourceswithin national parks

Government and non-governmentalorganizations have been involved in themanagement of protected areas

A new five-year management Plan wasdeveloped Blue and John Crow Mountain

National Park. The main purpose of the Plan

is to guide the management of the nationalpark around two main areas of focus: theconservation of plants and wildlife; and, the

provision of nature-based recreational

The value of protected areas has

been recognized internationally.Whilst protected areas cannotcure all environmental ills,

when effectively managed, theyconserve biodiversity, protectwatersheds and coastlines,

assist in flood control,groundwater recharge, habitat

protection, provide clean water,food, medicinal plants,

economic benefits in andaround protected areas as wellas recreational and educational

opportunities.


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationopportunities by all its co-management

partners.

A National Park Trust exists; however, itdoes not have the necessary capital to

provide funding for all parks and protected

areas presently declared. User Fees Regulations are currently being

developed for all national parks.

Freshwater

Ecosystems

Seawater/saltwater intrusion of coastal aquiferscaused by over-pumping of the aquifer, pumping

below sea level and poor well design. Theintrusion caused by over-pumping of wells iscommon particularly near densely populatedareas where the groundwater is oftentimes

affected by improper or inadequate sewagedisposal and wastewater treatment.

The quality of water found in many of Jamaicasrivers is threatened, due to overburdening with

wastes.

11

Discharges from the agricultural,industrial and mining contribute significantly towater pollution.

Caustic soda contamination red mud of groundand surface water from bauxite alumina plants the ponding of these caustic wastes has leached

sodium into underground water systems and hascontaminated surface water resources.

Sources of freshwater in

Jamaica are: Surface water: rivers

and streams

Groundwater: wells andsprings

Rainwater harvestingGroundwater is the mostimportant source of freshwater,

accounting for 84% of theavailable fresh water resources.Jamaicas surface waterresources account for

approximately 16% of totalwater resources.

11U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 2001, Water Resources Assessment of Jamaica,


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Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other InformationContamination of groundwater by seepage from

unlined waste disposal sites and leaking

underground petroleum storage tanks

Organic and bacteriological contamination ofgroundwater caused by seepage from soak-away

pits for sewage disposalPoor land use and inappropriate construction

practices which lead to a flow reduction in somerivers, increased erosion and higher levels of

turbidity in streams.


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Part 2 Possible Impacts of Climate Change on JamaicaSmall island and coastal nations of the

world such as Jamaica have long been

recognized as being among the most

likely to be affected by the potential

impacts of global climate change. The

inextricable linkage between climate

change and disaster management emerges

from the potential of the former to result

in an increased frequency and severity of

hydro-meteorological hazards and the

associated increase in risk faced bycountries as a whole and by vulnerable

communities in particular. For Jamaica,

the most visible of these impacts has been

the increasing vulnerability to severe

storms such as Hurricanes, Dean (2005)

and Ivan (2004) and the increased

frequency and intensity of flood events.

Hazard impacts resulting from climate

variability have exposed the vulnerability

of key economic sectors: tourism,

agriculture, fisheries, and water resources.

These identified vulnerabilities are further exacerbated by human activities such as

settlement patterns, land use, economic activities and poor policy development and

management. Additionally, the impacts of climate change are magnified by abuse of thenatural environment for example, the destruction or inappropriate use and management

of natural resources. This abuse is rarely due to the activities of poor communities, but

moreso to large mega projects, illegal logging and deforestation, over-fishing, mining,

and in some cases governmental neglect. But because of this environmental damage it is

much more difficult for poor communities to cope with climate change.

Projected Climate Change Effects for

the Caribbean 2050 (IPCC)

A 1.5-2 C increase in temperature; Subsequent increase in evaporation

losses;

Decreased precipitation continuationof a trend of rainfall decline observed insome parts of the region;

Projections by 2050 for the length of therainy season down by 7-8%;

Projections by 2050 for the length of thedry season up by 6-8%;

Increased frequency of intense rains up an average of 3% and projected

to increase to 20% by 2050; Increased erosion and contamination of

coastal areas;

Sea Level Rise median projection 40cm by 2080 causing increased

salt water intrusion, augmented by stormsurges;

Strongest hurricanes more intense,increasing disaster losses;

General increase in extreme events droughts, floods; and

Increased intensity of heavy rain events rapid run-off/flash floods, causing soil

Erosion, run-off of contaminants, andadverse effects on coastal waters.


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Climate change is therefore considered to be the most pervasive and truly global of all

issues affecting humanity and poses a serious threat to the environment as well as to

economies and societies. Possible impacts of climate change on Jamaica include:

Sea-level rise climate change is expected to cause a rise in sea levels by about20cm by the year 2030. Melting ice is responsible for a significant portion of theobserved sea level rise globally, with the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets beingthe largest contributors. In Jamaica sea-level rise is expected to compound beacherosion and cause permanent inundation in some areas.

Declines in agriculture yields rising sea level is expected to increase thepotential for the flooding of farmland and increase the sodium chloride content ofcoastal groundwater. The IPCC predicts declines in grain yields of between 10and 15% the Caribbean over the next 50 years, due to increased rainfall anddesertification. This could result in one in eight persons being susceptible tofamine.

Severe repercussions on the tourist industry accelerating erosion and flooding,causing loss of beach, loss of amenity value and infrastructural damage to name afew. Climate change may have already affected Jamaicas reefs. The death oflarge numbers of corals in 1988 and 1990 have been attributed to the increase intemperatures of coastal waters

Thus, for Jamaica which depends heavily on tourism and agriculture for their livelihoods,

these impacts could be ruinous.

In conclusion therefore, a healthy environment enhances societys disaster resilience in

two ways:

It reduces the impact of natural and human-induced disasters and it naturallymitigates against events

Conversely, environmental degradation increases disaster risk from landslides,tsunamis, floods, droughts and other hazards. For example, natural resourcesmanagement measures such as protecting soils from erosion and eventualdesertification through sustainable farming reduce peoples vulnerability todrought and flood.


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This SWOT Analysis presents a review and analysis of the state of Jamaicas natural environment, but focuses on some of the

legislative and resources issues that are resulting in the environmental issues the country faces. This SWOT methodology provided

one framework for identifying goals, objectives and strategies and integrating them in the overall sector plan.

The SWOT Analysis for natural resources and environmental management presented below is structured around the following 5

thematic areas:

1. Legislative Framework2. Institutional Framework3. Capacity and Resources4. Policy5. Physical/Social Issues

The SWOT is specific to natural resources and environmental management issues only.

Legislative

Framework

Institutional

Framework

Capacity and

Resources

Policy

Framework

Physical/Socia

Issues

Strengths Party to severalinternationalconventions which

enables us toaccess funding for

environmentalprogrammes

Increased mediacoverage has generatedinterest in

environmental issuesby the general public

Availability oftechnicallyqualified

environmentalprofessionals

Richbiodiversity,abundant natur

beauty andnatural resource

(e.g. freshwaterresources)

Weaknesses Outdated laws,national physical plan

Inadequate institutionalcoordination leads to

Unavailability ofgood quality data

Political influenceresults in high

Chapter 3: SWOT Analysis


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Legislative

Framework

Institutional

Framework

Capacity and

Resources

Policy

Framework

Physical/Socia

Issuesetc. policy incoherence,

lack of commonstandards, policy gaps,

lack of implementationof policy and lack of

infusion ofenvironmental issues

into sectoral policies

Key institutions areineffective in the

delivery of theirmandates

Local Governmentmultiplicity of lawswhich inhibit holistic

application -

Lack of accountabilityin key institutions

Inadequate system formonitoring theenvironment, noculture of enforcement,

roles andresponsibilities not

well defined,oftentimes resulting in

agency conflict andoverlap

and information

(for ecosystemsand natural

hazards) hindersscientific rigour in

policydevelopment,

includinginvestment policies

Lack ofinformation oncarrying capacity

in critical areas

Low levels offunding allocated

(budgetarysupport) in the

national budget forenvironmental and

natural resources NGO sector

disorganized and

lack financialsustainability

level decisions

being made inisolation of

planningframework and

data Insufficient

capacity for policyimplementation at

both national andlocal level

Weak nationalpolicy framework

Unresolved andmounting

environmentalissues e.g. waste

(e-waste, whitewaste, hazardous

waste), air andwater pollution,

loss of biodiversityetc.


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Legislative

Framework

Institutional

Framework

Capacity and

Resources

Policy

Framework

Physical/Socia

Issues NGO sector

disorganized and lack

financial sustainability

Opportunities National DisasterManagement

Framework

Access toInformation Act

Local GovernmentReform

Existence of bestpractices that

could be adopted

Suitably situatedfor use ofalternative and

new technologies

Global trendtowards the

development ofsustainable

economic sectors(e.g. sustainable

tourism,transportation etc.)

Existence ofenvironmentallobby groups

Increase awarenessand interest ofenvironmental

issues by thepublic

StrategicEnvironmental

Assessment Policyand process now atthe implementation

stage couldinfluence the

inclusion ofenvironmental

issues into sectoralpolicies

Local SustainableDevelopmentPlanning

Frameworkdeveloped

Threats Governmententities sometimes

Lack of capacity tounderstand the

Overdependenceon non-renewable

Persistentpoverty


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Legislative

Framework

Institutional

Framework

Capacity and

Resources

Policy

Framework

Physical/Socia

Issuesdo not adhere to

environmentallaws

Manyenvironmental

policies developedbut notpromulgated

resulting incontinued

degradation ofnatural resources

linkages between

environmentalissues and

economic policy(not enough lateral

thinking) Lack of political

will and vision

(related toenvironment)

energy sources

Open accessmanagement resulting in

Tragedy of the

Commons Macroeconomic

policy

High vulnerabilityof criticaleconomic assets

Globalization creating

openness tounsustainable

consumption an

productionpatterns

Climate changeand the

likelihood ofmore intense

cyclonic eventsand coastal

flooding

The countrysproneness tonatural and man

made disasters

Overexploitatioof renewablesources

This SWOT analysis along with the Situational Analysis presented above, will form the basis for identifying goals, objectives and

strategies that could be employed to addresses the weaknesses endemic to the sector, and capitalize on the opportunities towards

achieving the vision identified above. The weaknesses and threats identified through the SWOT analysis are consistent with some of

the key weaknesses, opportunities and threats identified.


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Chapter 4:

Strategic Vision and Planning Framework for Natural

Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard RiskReduction and Climate Change Sector Plans

Vision StatementWe will work together to adopt and promote measures that will help develop a

sustainable society, achieve and enhance a healthy natural environment in harmony with

the social and economic aspirations of Jamaica

The vision is based on a series of assumptionsarticulated by the task forces during their meetings.Some of these assumptions include:

Increased environmental awareness Effective regulatory framework which

binds government and people Data driven decision making with

meaningful public participation, free ofpolitical interference

Development that takes place within thecarrying capacity of natural resourceconstraints

Informed committed leadership who are allchampions for the environment

Constitutional and legislative reform right to a healthy environment, citizensright to appeal

Preservation and renewal of ecological capital

This vision provides one of the foundations on which the sector plan will be built.

Goals, and Outcomes - Development in Harmony with Nature

Human wealth and prosperity is based on the use and consumption of natural resources,

including materials, energy and land. Natural resources and the environment were once

regarded as free goods (or factors of production) and the costs of using them were not

Chapter 4: Strategic Vision and Planning

Framework

We will work together to adopt

and promote measures that will

help develop a sustainable

society, achieve and enhance a

healthy natural environment in

harmony with the social andeconomic aspirations of Jamaica


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internalized into production costs. This approach has led to a situation in which natural

resources are over used and environmental services are under valued, which have resulted

in environmental degradation. The perception that environmental resources are free,

needs to be discontinued as this approach creates high environmental costs and social

inequities, in particular for those who are not using those natural resources directly.

Jamaicas natural resources are an important part of the countrys natural heritage and the

foundation for future prosperity.

The sustainable use and management of natural resources is critical and globally has

come into focus and been the subject of many policy discussions for over a decade

beginning with the Earth Summit in Rio

de Janeiro in 1992. The use of natural

resources and the resulting impacts arestrongly influenced by the prevailing type

and efficiency of available technologies.

The high level of interdependence

between the environment and economic

and social systems in Small Island

Developing States (SIDS) like Jamaica

means that progress in one area cannot be

attained at the expense of the other.

Protecting and managing Jamaicas

natural resources is very much about

enhancing quality of life.12

The origin of

environmental problems that the world

and certainly Jamaica is now facing lies

fundamentally in the massive expansion of overall economic activities, coupled with the

excessive and inefficient consumption of resources (e.g. deforestation, watershed

degradation, the overfishing and pollution of marine ecosystems), and the emission ofwastes beyond the environments capacity to assimilate. Unsustainable production and

consumption patterns are increasingly threatening the health of the countrys ecosystems

and biological diversity.

12Jamaica Social Evaluation Project, Goal 5. Status Report 2007, Cabinet Office

Waste Generation, Composition and Disposal

Jamaicans are estimated to generateapproximately 1 kg/per person/day of solidwaste

Total solid waste generated in Jamaica isapprox. 836, 000 tonnes. An estimated400,000 tonnes of solid waste is collected

per year leaving about another 400,000tonnes uncollected

There are eight municipal waste disposalsites in operation across the island Jamaica

but none meet all of the generallyrecognized criteria to qualify as a landfillsite There are also no sanitary landfills.

There is no designated hazardous wastedisposal facility in Jamaica.

Approx. 20% of Jamaicas population isserved by sewerage systems operated by the

NWC. The remaining 75% of Jamaicassewage wastes are disposed of through soakaway systems, septic tanks, tile fields, pit-latrines etc.


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Additionally, economic losses due to resource degradation are, hard to measure and they

are not yet reflected in the countrys national accounts. As a consequence conservation of

the natural resources is not easily viewed as critical to sustaining the economy. Long-

term benefits are easily eclipsed by the need for short-term returns on investments13.

Also, Jamaica State of the Environment Report (2005) states that there is a strong

correlation between the state of the natural environment and the vulnerability of the

country to natural hazards.14

The Report sites poor environmental practices such as

improper disposal of waste. Indiscriminate removal of forest cover, poor land use

practices, squatting as exacerbating the effects of these hazards15.

To achieve the needed improvements in the use of natural resources it is also important to

strengthen the institutional andgovernance framework for

environmental management.16

This section encompasses some

of the initial steps identified that

would enable Jamaica to have an

effective and balanced approach

to natural resources andenvironmental management and

is geared towards achieving the

vision. Based on the situation analysis and analysis of the SWOT, four broad areas have

been identified for priority attention as follows:

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management Natural Resources Management Environmental Governance Natural Hazards Mitigation and Climate Change

13Jamaica National Assessment Report: A Ten Year Review of the Implementation of the 1994 Barbados Programmeof Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States. 2005. Ministry of Land andEnvironment14Jamaica National Environmental Action Plan (JANEAP) 2006 2009. National Environment and Planning Agency15Jamaica National Environmental Action Plan (JANEAP) 2006 2009. National Environment and Planning Agency16Country Environmental Assessment for Jamaica 2007, IADB


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The sector plan is based on the vision: We will work together to adopt and promotemeasures that will help develop a sustainable society, achieve and enhance a healthy

natural environment in harmony with the social and economic aspirations of Jamaica.

The four (4) main goals and associated sector outcomes of the Natural Resources &

Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction Sector Plan are presented

below.

SectorGoals

HealthyProductive and

Biologically

DiverseEcosystems

SustainableManagementand Utilization

of NaturalResources

Effective,Efficient andAccountableGovernanceFramework

Culture ofHazard RiskReduction


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Figure 1: Sector Goals and Outcomes

Healthy,

productive and

biologically

diverseecosystems

A ComprehensiveProgramme of

Biodiversity andEcosystem

ManagementDeveloped

The negative impact of

waste on Jamaicasecosystems reduced

Integrate/Infuseenvironmental issues in

economic and socialdecision-making

processes

Sustainable

Management &

Utilization of

NaturalResources

Mechanisms in place toensure that theManagement of

Natural Resources areconsistent with

International Standards

Natural Resources areused in a sustainable

way

Effective,

Efficient and

Accountable

GovernanceFramework

EnvironmentalLeadership Capacity

across Public andPrivate Sector

Institutions Developedand Improved

All Jamaicans are awareof environmental issues

and share responsibilityfor protecting the

environment.

A system ofenvironmentalmonitoring and

compliance created

Culture of

Hazard Risk

Reduction

A comprehensiveframework for hazard

risk reductiondeveloped

Strategies are in placeto mitigate and adapt

to climate change


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Proposed Sector Indicators and Targets

The proposed indicators and targets for the Natural Resources & Environmental

Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate Change Sector Plan over the period

2009 -2030 are presented in Table below.

Table : Natural Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard Risk

Reduction & Climate Change Indicators and Targets

Sector Indicators Baseline Targets Comments

2007 or Most

Current 2012 2015 2030

1. Urban particulates PM102. Total renewable fresh

water resources (Million

cubic metres/year

3. Total renewable waterresources

4. % of tested fresh watersources with resultswithin ambient water

quality

5. Pollutants in surfacewater ( broken down by

types of pollutants

6. % of country coveredwith forest

7. # of extinct species8. # of

/endangered/vulnerable

species


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Sector Indicators Baseline Targets Comments

2007 or Most

Current 2012 2015 2030insurance

19.% of national policiesthat includes

consideration of climate

change


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Implementation FrameworkThe implementation of the Natural Resources &

Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction

& Climate Change Sector Plan is an essential component

of the implementation, monitoring and evaluation

framework for the Vision 2030 Jamaica National

Development Plan. The Plan is implemented at thesectoral level by ministries, departments and agencies

(MDAs) of Government as well as non-state

stakeholders including the private sector, NGOs and

CBOs. The involvement of stakeholders is fundamental

to the successful implementation of the National

Development Plan and the Natural Resources &

Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction

& Climate Change Sector Plan.

Accountability for Implementation and

Coordination

The Cabinet, as the principal body with responsibility

for policy and the direction of the Government, has

ultimate responsibility for implementation of the

National Development Plan. Each ministry and agency

will be accountable for implementing the National

Development Plan (NDP) through various policies,

programmes and interventions that are aligned with the

strategies and actions of the NDP and the sector plans. A

robust results-based monitoring and evaluation system

Components of Vision 2030

Jamaica - National Development

PlanThe Vision 2030 Jamaica NationalDevelopment Plan has three (3)components:

1. Integrated National DevelopmentPlan:

The integrated National Development Planpresents the overall plan for Vision 2030

Jamaica, integrating all 31 sector plans intoa single comprehensive plan for long-termnational development. The integratedNational Development Plan presents theNational Vision, the four National Goalsand fifteen National Outcomes, and theNational Strategies required to achieve thenational goals and outcomes.

2. Medium Term Socio-EconomicPolicy Framework (MTF):

The Medium Term Socio-Economic PolicyFramework (MTF), is a 3-yearly plan whichsummarizes the national priorities andtargets for the country and identifies the keyactions to achieve those targets over each 3-year period from FY2009/2010 toFY2029/2030.

3. Thirty-one (31) Sector Plans:At the sectoral level Vision 2030 Jamaicawill be implemented through the strategic

frameworks and action plans for each sectoras contained in the respective sector plans.Vision 2030 Jamaica includes a total ofthirty-one (31) sector plans covering themain economic, social, environmental andgovernance sectors relevant to national

development.

Chapter 5: Implementation Framework and

Action Plan


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will be established to ensure that goals and outcomes of the Plan are achieved. This

system will build on existing national and sectoral monitoring and evaluation frameworks

and will be highly participatory.

Resource Allocation for Implementation

Vision 2030 Jamaica places great emphasis on ensuring that resource allocation

mechanisms are successfully aligned and integrated with the implementation phase of the

National Development Plan and sector plans. The requirements to ensure resource

allocation for implementation will include alignment of organizational plans in the public

sector, private sector and civil society with the National Development Plan, MTF and

sector plans; coherence between the various agency plans with the National Budget;

rationalization of the prioritisation process for public sector expenditure; and increased

coordination between corporate planners, project managers and financial officers across

ministries and agencies.

Action Plan

The Action Plan represents the main framework for the implementation of the Natural

Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate Change

Sector Plan for Vision 2030 Jamaica. The tracking of implementation of the Natural

Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate Change

Sector Plan will take place through the Action Plan as well as the framework of sector

indicators and targets.

The Action Plan contains the following elements:

i. Sector Goalsii. Sector Outcomes

iii. Sector Strategiesiv. Sector Actionsv. Responsible Agenciesvi. Timeframe


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LONG TERM ACTION PLAN

2009 2030

Goal # 1: Healthy, Productive and Biologically Diverse Ecosystems

STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY

A Comprehensive Programme of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management DevelopedAdopt an ecosystemsmanagement approach

Develop innovative and costeffective integrated ecosystemmanagement approaches to naturalresources in different ecosystems

2009-2020 NEPA, Environmental

Management Division inthe Office of the Prime

Minister

Conduct, ecological, economic, andsociological surveys to provideinformation, including indigenousknowledge to guide integratedecosystem management planningand implementation

2009-2020 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division in

the Office of the Prime

Minister

Conduct assessments of thelinkages between key ecosystemservices for human well-being atthe national level

2010 - 2018 NEPA, Environmental


Minister

Develop and implementappropriate policies, regulations,incentives and structures to supportintegrated ecosystem management


Management Division in

the Office of the PrimeMinister

Conduct workshops on the conceptof ecosystem management and onecosystem services, theirinterlinkages and the relationshipsto human well-being

2010 - 2015 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division in


Minister

Reverse loss ofenvironmental resourcesthrough restorationinitiatives

Develop mechanisms to preventillegal exploitation and damagingof forests



Minister, Forestry

Department

Rehabilitate coral reef ecosystems 2008 - 2020 NEPA, Environmental


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STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYManagement Division in


Minister

Implement economic and technicalprogrammes to encourage farmersto practice conservation farming

2009 - 2015 Ministry of Agriculture,Office of the Prime

Minister, Rural

Agricultural Development

Authority

Set up a fund for the rehabilitationof lands degraded during bauxitemining

2008 - 2011 Ministry of Agriculture,

Office of the Prime

Minister, Ministry ofEnergy and Mining,

NEPA

Rehabilitate degraded forest 2008 - 2017 NEPA, Environmental


Minister, Forestry

Department

Promote sustainable use ofbiological resources

Implement programmes to raiseawareness of biodiversity issuesamong the population



Minister, Forestry

Department, Institute of

Jamaica

Develop public/community/privatesector partnership for integratedecosystem management, planningand implementation



Minister, Institute of

Jamaica,

Build capacity in relevant entitiesto identify and design appropriateactions to mitigate the negative

impacts of direct/indirect drivers onecosystem services



Minister

Build capacity in key entities (thosewith responsibility for ecosystems),including CBOs and NGOs foreconomic valuation of ecosystemservices



Minister

Develop and implement criteria for 2011 - 2014 NEPA, Environmental


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STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYthe sustainable use of resources Management Division in


Minister

Facilitate access tobiological resources forbenefit sharing

Develop appropriate mechanismsfor conflict resolution amongresource users and otherstakeholders

2011 - 2015 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division inthe Office of the Prime

Minister

Build capacity in institutions toensure a rights, entitlements andownership approach to encouragethe equitable access and use ofecosystem services for human well-being

2011 - 2014 NEPA, IOJ, Office of thePrime Minister

Create networks for data and

information sharing on ecosystemservices for human well-being

2011 - 2014 IOJ, NEPA, Office of the

Prime Minister

Protect traditional knowledge andcreate a traditional knowledgeregister/library

2010 NBC, IOJ, NEPA,

Environmental


Minister

Prepare policies and legislation tofacilitate access to biologicalresources and equitable benefitssharing

2011 - 2017 NEPA, IOJ, Office of the

Prime Minister

Enact of new Fisheries Bill 2009-2017 Fisheries Division

Finalization of a national beachpolicy

2009-2010 Management Division inthe Office of the PrimeMinister, NEPA

Prepare material transferagreements for the use and removalfrom the wild of Jamaicas floraand fauna

2011 - 2017 NEPA, ManagementDivision in the Office of

the Prime Minister,

Develop and implement a pilotproject on the use of casitas andcondomimiums as a means ofenhancing lobster populations

2009 - 2010 Fisheries Division, Ministryof Agriculture

Ensure safe transfer,handling and use of livingmodified organisms

Promulgate national bio safetypolicy

2010-2012 NCST, NEPA,Environmental

Management Division in



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STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYwaste Management Division in


Minister, NSWMA, NEPA

Develop a waste information

system

2009-2011 Ministry of Health and the

Environment,EnvironmentalManagement Division in


Minister, NSWMA, PIOJ,

NEPA

Construct infrastructure forhazardous waste, includingcollection points and storagefacilities

2010-2013 NSWMA, Ministry of

Health and the

Environment,

Improve and expand the countryswaste management infrastructure


Health and the

Environment,Develop and implement pilotprojects on waste collection (e.g.oil, composting separation ofspecial types of waste e.g. paper,cardboard, plastics etc.


Health and the

Environment,

EnvironmentalManagement Division in


Minister, NEPA

Optimize the collection system formunicipal waste

2008-2010 NSWMA, Office of the

Prime Minister

Develop a strategic plan for wastemanagement

2009-2011 NSWMA,

Introduce economic instruments forthe management of wastes 2014-2018 NSWMA, Ministry ofHealth and theEnvironment,

EnvironmentalManagement Division in


Minister, NEPA, PIOJ,Ministry of Finance and

the Public Service

Develop a financially andenvironmentally sustainable systemfor environment and waste

management that responds topresent and future needs


Health and theEnvironment,

EnvironmentalManagement Division inthe Office of the Prime

Minister, NEPA, PIOJ,

Ministry of Finance and

the Public Service

Support dynamic and on-going initiatives on theimplications of waste on

Establish a fee structure based onthe quantity and quality ofdischarge of industrial effluents

2010 - 2012 NEPA,EnvironmentalManagement Division in



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STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYecosystems Minister, Ministry of

Finance and the Public

Service

Develop a programme formonitoring municipal sewage andindustrial waste water treatmentplants

2008 Ongoing NEPA, NWC, NationalSolid Waste ManagementAuthority

Develop and implement costrecovery mechanisms by promotingrecycling and reuse initiatives forproper disposal of solid waste

2011 NSWMA, PIOJ, NEPA,EnvironmentalManagement Division in


Minister, Ministry ofFinance and the Public

Service

Engage in sewage rehabilitation,operation and maintenanceprogramme to enable existingsewage treatment systems tofunction at a level to which theywere originally designed

2008 - 2014 National Water

Commission, NEPA

Establish a new sewerage systemfor the KMA

2007 - 2012 National Water

Commission

Integrate the informalsector in the management of

wastes

Develop local area plans for themanagement of wastes

2010 - 2013 NSWMA, NEPA,

Implement a code of practice forthe recovery of recyclables and theprovision of legal support in thedevelopment of recyclingprogrammes

2008 - 2011 NSWMA , NEPA, Officeof the Prime Minister

Formalize the solid waste sectorthrough the development oflicencing regulations, standards andprocedures for applicants

2009 - 2015 NSWMA, Office of thePrime Minister, NEPA

Implement cost recovery methods

through the promotion of recyclingand reuse initiatives for properdisposal of wastes

2009 - 2013 NSWMA , Ministry of

Finance and the PublicService, NEPA


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STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYImplement a sanitation andneighborhood clean-up/maintenance programme toimprove solid waste management,

sanitation and beautification withinDowntown Kingston

2008-2010 Kingston Restoration

Company, NSWMA,

NEPA

Create incentives for thedevelopment of markets forwaste

Implement pilot projects on theenergy potential of waste

2008-2020 PCJ, NSWMA, NEPA,PIOJ, Ministry of Energy

and Mining

Integrate/Infuse environmental issues in economic and social decision-making processesCreate mechanisms at thenational level and indecision making process toensure the use of impactassessments (biodiversity

impactassessments/SEA/HIA etc.in sectoral policydevelopment

Implement the GOJ SEA Policy 2009 onwards for allnew nationalpolicies

Cabinet Office,

Promulgate the EnvironmentalStewardship Policy

2009 Office of the Prime

Minister

Create processes that willenable the integratedmanagement andsustainable development ofJamaicas naturalresources

Adopt natural resource valuation asa key tool of the management ofnatural resources

2008-2020 NEPA, Office of the Prime

Minister,

Develop mechanisms thateffectively integrateenvironmental management

with urban planning andregional development

Provide institutional mechanisms toupgrade environmental conditionsin low income urban settlements

2011 2015 NEPA, UDC, Office of the

Prime Minister, NationalLand Agency, National

Solid Waste ManagementAuthority


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Goal # 2 - Sustainable Management & Utilization of Natural

Resources

STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYMechanisms in place to ensure that the management of natural resources are

consistent with international standardsCreate frameworksthat will enable theintegratedmanagement andsustainabledevelopment ofJamaicas naturalresources

Conduct an initial mapping andspecification of majorenvironmental challengesrelevant to the sector

2010 - 2012 NEPA, Office of the

Prime Minister, ForestryDepartment, Water

Resources Authority

Conduct an audit of thecountrys environmentalresources

2012 - 2014 NEPA, Forestry

Department, FisheriesDivision, WRA, Office of

the Prime Minister

Establish a national land useplan 2009 - 2012 OPM, NLA

Finalize and promulgate theprotected areas system masterplan

2009 2012

Conduct soil inventory andmapping

2012 - 2014 Ministry of Agriculture,

RADA

Control the use of hazardousand dangerous chemicals toavoid soil contamination

2013 Ministry of Agriculture

Forestry Department

Establish and introduceinstruments for the reduction of

water pollution

2008 Ongoing NEPA, Ministry of

Finance and the Public

Service, Office of thePrime Minister

Implement bestmanagementpractices for air,forest, ground andsurface water, landmanagement, soilsand resourcesconsumption

Prepare a complete inventory offorest ecosystems

2009 - 2011 Forestry Department

Develop an integrated watermanagement policy based onsustainable developmentprinciples

2009 - 2012 Water Resources

Authority, NEPA, NWC,

Ministry of Water and

Housing

Develop a national airmonitoring system

2010 - 2012 NEPA, Ministry of

Health and Environment

Introduce procedures forsustainable land management


Prime Minister, National

Land AgencyDevelop policies for soilprotection

2012 Ongoing NEPA, Office of the

Prime Minister, NationalLand Agency

Include an air protectioncomponent in the energy sectorand other sectoral strategies,such as transport, industry andagriculture


Energy and Mining,

Ministry of Transportand Works, Office of the

Prime Minister


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STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYPrepare, adopt and implementregulations and procedures foremissions from stationary andmobile sources


Health and Environment

Create a frameworkthat will ensure thesustainablemanagement ofnatural resources

Implement a national policyand legislation on municipalintegrated developmentplanning, and co-ordinatingLand Use ManagementSystems

2014 - 2017 NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister, NationalLand Agency,

Establish linkagesbetweenenvironmental andurban planning,regionaldevelopment and

sectoral strategies

Develop and improveinterventions and approachesthat build and enhance inter-government co-operation

2010 - 2014 Office of the Prime

Minister, NEPA, UDC,

Local GovernmentDepartment

Encourage greaterapplication of landuse planningtechniques forenvironmentalmanagement

Introduce update land usepolicy and prepare guidelinesfor land use practices in otherdevelopment policies andguidelines

2010 - 2015 National Land Agency,

Cabinet Office, Office of

the Prime Minister,NEPA

Preserve scenic,cultural and historicresources

Build capacity of institutionsinvolved in nature andbiodiversity natural and culturalheritage conservation

2012 - 2015 Office of the PrimeMinister, NEPA, UDC,

Jamaica National

Heritage Trust

Establish legal and institutional

system for protectingbiodiversity, natural andcultural heritage (andimplement components alreadyestablished)

2007 2020 NEPA, Jamaica

Conservation andDevelopment Trust,

other select NGOs,

Integrate biodiversity, naturaland cultural heritage concernsin all relevant sectors

2013 2020 NEPA, Jamaica National

Heritage Trust

Promote the use ofnew and cleantechnologies

Prepare guidelines for usingecological materials duringconstruction works

2011 2013 NEPA, Jamaica

Institution of Engineers,Construction Industry

Provide institutional support to

initiatives for use of cleantechnologies and renewableresources


Prime Minister, Ministryof Energy and Mining,Petroleum Corporation

of Jamaica

Develop regulations for theenergy performance ofbuildings

2008 2014 NEPA, Office of the

Prime Minister, Ministryof Energy and Mining,

Petroleum Corporation

of Jamaica, Jamaica


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STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYBureau of Standards

Introduce cleaner technologiesto replace old equipment andold industry technology


Finance and the PublicService, Office of the

Prime MinisterEnsure thatGovernment meetsobligations underInternationalEnvironmentalAgreements

Natural Resources are used in a sustainable wayEngage

communities insustainable naturalresourcesdevelopment

Develop a sustainablecommunity development actionplan to guide communityengagement in naturalresources management

2011 - 2012 NEPA, NGOs, Forestry

Department, Ministry ofAgriculture

Develop programmes tosensitize and mobilizecommunities on managingnatural resources

2012 - 2015 NEPA, NGOs, ForestryDepartment

Strengthen thecapacity of localorganizations tofacilitate citizenparticipation indecision-making

affecting naturalresources

Collaborate with industrythrough a defined frameworkfor the involvement ofindustry as a partner forsolving environmentalproblems

2010 Ongoing NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister, Ministry

of Industry, Investment

and Commerce, JamaicaTrade and Invest

Prepare and implementmanagement plans for allprotected areas through anapproach involvingcommunity participation

2008 - 2014 NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister

Buildsustainabilityprinciples intosectoral policy andprogrammedevelopmentto

protect theenvironment and tosatisfy the needs ofthe population andthe economy

Monitor the impact of thetransport sector on the naturalenvironment


Transport and Works,

Climate Change Unit,Met Office

Implement pilot projects for theincrease in eco-efficiency inindustry

2014 2025 NEPA, Ministry of

Industry, Investment

and Commerce, Ministryof Finance and the

Public Service

Rehabilitate and constructinfrastructure (water supply,sewage networks andwastewater treatment facilities)

2008 2015 Ministry of Water andHousing,

Develop a plan for thestimulation of scientific

2011 2018 NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister,


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Goal # 3 - Effective, Efficient, and Accountable Governance

Framework for Environment and Natural Resources

STRATEGIES SPECIFIC

ACTIONS

TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY

Environmental leadership capacity across public and private sector institutions

developed and improvedMainstreamenvironmental concernsin the decision-makingprocess to ensure the useof impact assessmentsfor development projects

BIA/SEA/HIA

Implement GOJ SEAPolicy

2009 Ongoing Cabinet Office, Office of

the Prime Minister, allministries of GOJ,

NEPA

Develop framework forthe introduction of healthimpact assessments, andbiodiversity impactassessments in policydevelopment

2014 - 2018 Cabinet Office, Office of

the Prime Minister, allministries of GOJ,

NEPA

Build openness andaccountability intoorganizational practicesand principles

Encouragetransformativeleadership inenvironmental

institutions

Create customer orientedfocus in environmentalinstitutions participatein the Governments

Build capacity systems,processes, infrastructure,and personnel ofenvironmental institutions

2009 - 2017 Office of the PrimeMinister, Cabinet Office

(PSMD), NEPA,Forestry Department,

Fisheries Division

Create frameworks toensure that environmentalinformation is accurate andaccessible to allstakeholders

Implement a Plan forPublic Education toachieve behaviour change


Prime Minister, NGOs

Establish mechanisms tofoster coordination and

collaboration amongresource managementagencies on resourceprotection issues.

All Jamaicans are aware of environmental issues and share responsibility for

protecting the environment


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Goal # 4: Culture of Hazard Risk Reduction

STRATEGIES SPECI

natural resources and environmental managment - june 2009

Documents