Basseterre, St. Kitts (May 10, 2006): Along with considering alternative sources of renewable energy in the face of rapidly rising oil prices, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is working diligently to make approaching international events as eco-friendly as possible.
Minister of State with responsibility for Sustainable Development Hon. Nigel Carty in addressing the Caribbean Renewable Energy Development (CREDP) 3rd project Steering Committee Meeting, explained that renewable energy research and development is inextricably linked to environmental sustainability.
The minister said St. Kitts and Nevis which is hosting the International Whaling Commission's 58th Conference later this month, as well as the international Cricket World Cup in 2007 will employ a number of environment friendly measures.
He explained that park and ride schemes whereby persons will be required to park their vehicles away from the venue and use organized transport, will limit traffic and pollution.
Additionally, measures will be in place for the conservation of water supplies; chemicals used to treat cricket pitches will be monitored; packaging of products sold during matches will be restricted and maximum recycling will be required.
The minister said while these are all creditable interventions, the security of energy supply is critical, considering its link to climate change. He added that the discovery and exploitation of renewable energy sources is a priority for Caribbean countries given the proximity of these sources to the area of demand.
While traditional sources tend to be monopolistic in nature and very far removed from the Caribbean, the use of sources within the region itself would empower the region towards meeting its energy needs.
Minister Carty urged CREDP to ensure that, as the world's remaining oil supplies approach depletion, the Caribbean's utility and energy companies be positioned to rely on its alternative fuels.
Additionally, he encouraged the Committee to develop a strategy that would propel the Caribbean to the forefront of the energy revolution.
