Opening Lines – Five-year initiative launched to integrate nature-based solutions into urban development

Five-year initiative launched to integrate nature-based solutions into urban development

Source: https://caribbeannewsglobal.com/, News Editor, Oct 24, 2025

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (JIS) – A five-year initiative has been launched to address Jamaica’s urban climate and societal challenges by integrating nature-based solutions (NbS) into urban planning and community development.

Dubbed ‘Jamaica Urban Solutions for the Environment’ (J-USE), the initiative is funded by Global Affairs Canada with an investment of Can$4 million and is being implemented by the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica (EFJ), which is contributing an additional Can$1.2 million in support.

Nature-based solutions (NbS) leverage the natural environment to mitigate climate risks, enhance biodiversity, and deliver social and economic benefits to communities.

Pilot projects will be established at the Abilities Foundation on Constant Spring Road, the Danny Williams School for the Deaf in Papine, and Torrington Bridge in Kingston.

Addressing the initiative’s launch at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston on Thursday, minister of water, environment and climate change, Matthew Samuda, commended the programme and the collaborative partnership facilitating it.

“Canada, over the last 10 years, has been one of our strongest partners for climate action and environmental protection, and I wish to firmly put the government’s thanks on record for their continued support. Whether it be through central government or entities such as the EFJ, they’re indeed very strong partners of ours,” he said.