CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) says it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (Mo)U) with Conservation International, an accredited agency for the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The St. Lucia-based OECS Commission stated that the MoU aims to formalize a strategic partnership focused on advancing conservation, sustainable development, and climate resilience across the Eastern Caribbean.
The OECS Director General signed the MoU, Dr. Didacus Jules, and CI’s Senior Vice President for Field Programmes, Kelvin Alie, at the recent 12th OECS Council of Ministers meeting on Environmental Sustainability (COM: ES 12) in Antigua and Barbuda.
It said that the agreement outlines a shared vision to support the conservation, sustainable use, and effective management of the region’s natural resources. It also commits both organizations to enhance climate resilience through collaborative action focused on financing, partnership building, capacity development, and informed decision-making.
“This partnership is a game-changer for our region. It’s about more than just protecting nature. It’s about securing a thriving future for our people. By investing in our environment, we’re also creating jobs, strengthening resilience, and upholding the values of fairness and sustainability at the heart of the St. George’s Declaration 2040,” Jules said.
The CI is a non-profit organization that operates internationally in over 30 countries across six continents, partnering with a wide range of organizations to empower societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature, promoting the well-being of humanity.
“We’re honored to stand with the OECS in this critical work. The Caribbean’s natural resources, its coral reefs, forests, and coastlines, are the foundation of life here. By safeguarding them, we’re securing a better future for millions,” said Alie.
Under the agreement, the OECS stated that the CI would bring its expertise to the table by unlocking funding and helping OECS countries access finance for climate and conservation goals, as well as advising on blue carbon projects, such as mangrove and seagrass restoration and nature-based climate solutions.
It will also support stronger environmental laws in line with global standards, improve data sharing and decision-making for a greener economy, and help small and medium-sized enterprises thrive in nature-friendly industries.
The Commission stated that the OECS would provide policy insights for the Lesser Antilles Landscape program, bringing governments, communities, and partners together to achieve a greater impact and co-create projects that combat climate change while protecting biodiversity.
The sub-regional grouping will also rally financial and political backing to scale up successful initiatives. Both organizations will also share knowledge on conservation funding, green economic shifts, and climate resilience strategies.
“This collaboration highlights the OECS’s role as a regional leader in environmental action, proving once again that innovative, science-driven solutions can drive real change,” the OECS Commission said, adding that the agreement will run for three years, with the option to extend, marking the start of a long-term commitment to a healthier, more resilient Eastern Caribbean.
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