News

Blue bonds and mangrove protection: Small island nations lead in climate resilience

Last year, the South Pacific Stock Exchange and International Finance Corporation, with support from Australia and New Zealand, launched an initiative to help identify environmentally sustainable economic activities. The aim is to guide public and private investments toward projects aligned with Fiji’s climate goals. It was just one of several initiatives deployed by Small Island Developing States in the effort to confront a complex web of challenges, comprising rising sea levels and coastal erosion, with the resultant effect on volatile sectors such as tourism. Small island nations are increasingly turning to environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards as a potential tool for sustainable development. ESG frameworks are designed to align investment flows with environmental stewardship, social equity and responsible governance. ESG principles are closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), not only as market signals, but governance tools to track and steer national progress toward global sustainability targets. However, their introduction to small island nations is itself proving a challenge.

Isle of Harris cuts jobs and production

Photo: [The Spirits Business](https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/content/uploads/2023/09/Isle-of-Harris.png), 2025 Scotch whisky and gin maker Isle of Harris Distillery will restructure its business after facing “challenging headwinds”, cutting jobs and production in the process. The distillery was established in 2015 and is one of the largest employers on the Isle of Harris in Scotland with 45 members of staff. In a statement, the company confirmed it would implement a restructuring programme, following “challenging headwinds” in the spirits industry. Simon Erlanger, managing director of Isle of Harris Distillery, said: “In a move to safeguard the future of our business, today we are introducing a restructuring programme, which will see reduced production and workforce at the distillery. “Much like our colleagues in the wider spirits industry, we are facing challenging headwinds that have led to some incredibly difficult decisions. “Following a number of cost-cutting measures, voluntary redundancy is being offered to staff in the first instance, with compulsory to follow thereafter if we do not fulfil our cost reduction target.” The company did not disclose how many jobs would be affected as consultations are ongoing. As part of the restructure, the business will now move from two shifts a day to one in its distillation. Erlanger called the situation “deeply regrettable” and expressed his thanks to the team, particularly to those affected by the restructure, for their “dedication and contribution to the business”.

Seventeen women honoured for their contributions to national development ahead of International Women’s Day

Excerpt and Photo from antiguaobserver.com On March 1st, the Caribbean Union Bank (CUB) and the Directorate of Gender Affairs (DoGA) within the Ministry of Social & Urban Transformation honoured 17 women for their outstanding service to the nation of Antigua and Barbuda at the Women of Wadadli and Wa’Omoni Awards Gala. This was the second installment of the award ceremony, the first having been held in 2020. The awards aim to specifically highlight women’s contributions to national development and promoting gender equality. DoGA Executive Director, Jamie Saunders said: “The Directorate of Gender Affairs (DoGA) sees the Women of Wadadli and Wa’Omoni (WOW) awards as a unique opportunity, to recognize and validate the contributions that women have made and continue to make as it relates to national development, across a variety of fields and sectors. The WOW awards will remain a staple event for the DoGA, and we hope that it will inspire the women and girls of Antigua and Barbuda to continue to break barriers and to aspire to greatness”. For the second time running, the Caribbean Union Bank sponsored the event. This year, they played an extra special role as title sponsor.

Japan’s JICA contributes $1 billion to IDB Invest for Latin America’s sustainable growth

The Island Leading The Farm-To-Table Revolution In The Caribbean

St Kitts has emerged as a serious player in the Caribbean’s farm-to-table movement in recent years, thanks to its fertile volcanic soil, sunshine-filled ideal growing climate and rich culinary heritage. The island’s gastronomy is a vibrant fusion of African, Caribbean, British, and French influences, blending bold freshly harvested spices, produce, and locally caught seafood with centuries-old culinary traditions. From open-air markets teaming with tropical fruit to multi-course Kittian-flavored fine-dining experiences, the island has attracted a new breed of food-driven travelers. Beyond its culinary appeal, St Kitts is trending as a destination. Cape Air launched a new route from the [US Virgin Islands this past year](https://www.caribjournal.com/2024/11/05/cape-air-is-adding-a-new-flight-to-st-kitts-from-the-us-virgin-islands/), while [Caribbean Airlines](https://ntltrust.com/news/lifestyle/caribbean-airlines-expands-with-new-route-to-st-kitts-boosting-connectivity-and-economic-growth/) expanded regional connections making it easier than ever to island hop. [Jet Blue](https://www.travelandleisure.com/jetblue-caribbean-st-kitts-routes-7509233) also added a direct flight from New York, making it even more accessible to American travelers. With the increased flight availability, rich cultural and historical landmarks, and burgeoning farm-to-table movement, St. Kitts is one of the Caribbean’s most compelling 2025 destinations. Head to the following places to taste the best of St. Kitt’s locally sourced cuisine.

The Ecoislas International Forum explores the connection between sustainable development and insularity at Infecar

Excerpt and photo from eldiario.es. Translated from Spanish Net zero emissions, biodiversity protection, waste management and energy efficiency will be some of the topics that, for two days, will serve international, national and local experts to discuss and reflect on the transition towards a greener, more profitable, more self-sufficient and environmentally more sustainable socio-economic model. The Ecoislas International Forum returns to Gran Canaria to celebrate its second edition at Infecar this Thursday and Friday, January 30 and 31, with the aim of leading the global debate on sustainability in island environments, as explained by the Island Council. The meeting will be structured around keynote lectures, round tables and thematic workshops focused on key areas such as the circular and blue economy; energy, water, mobility; adaptation to climate change and biodiversity.

The Caribbean Development Bank Providing Funding to Support Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Development Strategy

Excerpt and Photo from caribank.org The [Caribbean Development Bank](https://www.caribank.org/) (CDB, the Bank) has approved a grant of USD132,000 to the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis (GOSKN) for the formulation of a Medium-term Development Strategy and Investment Plan for 2025-2029. The plan will promote inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the country’s National Development Planning Framework. The project, which will be implemented by the Ministry of Economic Development and Investment (MEDI), supports the creation of a monitoring and evaluation framework inclusive of a digital tool to track progress. ​This framework will ensure comprehensive oversight over public investments, allowing for efficient resource allocation and effective programme implementation aligned with national targets. Additionally, it will seek to provide greater accountability, efficiency and sustained momentum during implementation of the development strategy. **Acting Vice President of Operations at the Bank, Mrs. Therese Turner-Jones** indicated that “The Bank remains committed to assisting the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis in crafting the requisite tools to achieve desired development outcomes. This initiative is intended to build institutional resilience and strengthen implementation capacity and good governance in the twin-island Federation.” The GOSKN is also providing USD25,000 towards the project, which is set to support implementation of initiatives for economic diversification, renewable energy transition, sustainable agriculture, education and social programmes, and other priority areas. The new strategy will focus on climate resilience, green energy transformation, human capital and economic and institutional development, social inclusion, with an emphasis on gender equality.

Prime Minister Drew Encourages the Region to Look to St. Kitts-Nevis as a Model of Innovation

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has issued a rallying call for Caribbean nations to adopt St. Kitts and Nevis as a model for implementing innovative policies that improve quality of life and empower citizens. Speaking during an appearance on Freedom FM’s ‘Issues’ talk show, Dr. Drew outlined key initiatives under his administration that have set the Federation apart as a leader in sustainable development and social advancement. “St. Kitts and Nevis is leading in areas critical to sustainable development —from our revolutionary ASPIRE program to universal healthcare for children and free education through the college level, we are demonstrating what is possible when governments prioritize the well-being and future of their people,” said Dr. Drew. He continued, “I encourage our Caribbean neighbors to study these strategies and adapt them for their own national needs. Together, we can create a region that is more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous.”

Empowering Gozo’s economy: Addressing key issues for a resilient tomorrow

Gozo, with its unique blend of heritage and natural beauty, holds immense economic potential, yet it continues to grapple with structural challenges that impede its growth. The latest surveys conducted by the Gozo Regional Development Authority (GRDA) and the Gozo Business Chamber (GBC) provide valuable insights into the pressing issues facing businesses on the island. Here I note that while the GRDA is the driving force behind these surveys, still, I wonder why they are not including the Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) which represents the main tourism sector in Gozo. These challenges, ranging from workforce shortages and inflationary pressures to inefficient transportation systems and sector-specific struggles, demand immediate and strategic action. Without timely interventions, the Gozo risks undermining its economic resilience and stifling its future potential. A central issue is the imbalance in the labour market caused by an expanding public sector. While public service employment offers stability and appeal, its unchecked growth is drawing a significant portion of the labour force away from the private sector. This practice, often driven by political considerations to secure votes, comes at the cost of private sector dynamism. Sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, and retail, which form the backbone of Gozo’s economy, are struggling to find the workforce they need to sustain operations and grow. This labour market distortion requires immediate policy reform.