Senior representatives of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) have visited the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) headquarters in Vienna after first visiting the agency’s Environmental Laboratories in Monaco.
The Centre, based in Belize, was established in 2002 by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government and officially opened in August 2017. The CCCCC plays an important role in coordinating the Caribbean region’s response to climate change, working on effective solutions to combat the environmental impacts of climate change and global warming through numerous projects and scientific research.
David Osborn, Director of the Laboratories, welcomed the delegates and provided an overview of how various nuclear and isotopic techniques can contribute to Member States’ efforts to protect the environment. Monitoring the presence of marine contaminants and understanding the impact of ocean acidification are among several potential areas for cooperation between the CCCCC and the IAEA, which were subsequently discussed. The CCCCC delegation also highlighted the need to connect environmental challenges in the Caribbean with the socioeconomic issues of the region.
This was followed by a tour of the Monaco Laboratories to see firsthand how scientists at the IAEA can assist Member States by providing the necessary information for more precise and effective environmental management, and by building Member State capacities in applying nuclear technology in this field. (Source: IAEA)