Sen. Samuda Urges Alacrity in Ocean Action in Portugal

The UN has set 10 ocean-related targets to be achieved over this decade, as part of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. Among them, actions to prevent and reduce pollution and acidification; protect ecosystems; regulate fisheries; and increase scientific knowledge.

Minister without portfolio for Economic Growth and Job Creation, Matthew Samuda co-chaired this morning’s interactive dialogue at the UN oceans conference in Portugal. He told delegates Jamaica will remain resolute in its support for ocean action to achieve sdg14.  However, he says scientific data show not enough has been done.

Despite efforts in the past to safeguard and preserve the oceans Minister Matthew Samuda told the United Nations, Wednesday not enough has been done to achieve the goal of reducing ocean acidification and rising sea levels. He stressed small island developing states like Jamaica remain resolute as economies and lives depend on these goals being met.

He says the gaps ought to be addressed urgently noting several challenges to include a knowledge gap. Minister Samuda says it will demand a united effort, while acknowledging a funding gap.