Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, the Honourable Michael Joseph, has called for increased climate financing, stronger regional cooperation and a fair transition away from fossil fuels during his participation in the Global Citizen Sessions: From the Front Lines to COP31.

Speaking at Sandals Grande Antigua on Wednesday, the Minister outlined Antigua and Barbuda’s priorities ahead of COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, emphasizing the importance of keeping global warming as close as possible to the 1.5°C target while significantly strengthening adaptation, resilience and support for countries most vulnerable to climate change.

Minister Joseph stressed that Small Island Developing States must have greater access to concessional and grant-based climate financing, particularly to address adaptation needs and loss and damage.

He also highlighted the importance of reducing the Caribbean’s dependence on imported fossil fuels through investments in renewable energy, battery storage and resilient electricity infrastructure.

The Minister underscored that regional collaboration, including coordinated procurement, shared technical expertise and joint investment opportunities, would help Caribbean countries overcome the limitations of small energy markets and accelerate the transition to cleaner, more affordable energy.

As an early supporter of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, Antigua and Barbuda continues to advocate for an orderly, equitable and fully financed transition away from fossil fuels.

In his closing remarks during the rapid-fire segment, Minister Joseph identified three commitments for Commonwealth leaders to carry to COP31: maintaining the 1.5°C ambition, significantly scaling up climate financing, and ensuring a fully financed and equitable energy transition.

Source: Antigua News Room Minister Michael Joseph Highlights Climate Financing and Renewable Energy Priorities Ahead of COP31 at Global Citizen Session.