-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
1/58
SECTOR PLAN
2009 - 2030
NATURAL RESOURCES AND
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT &
HAZARD RISK REDUCTION AND
CLIMATE CHANGE
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
2/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 2
VISION 2030 JAMAICA: NATIONALDEVELOPMENT PLAN
COMBINED SECTOR PLANNATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT &
HAZARD RISK REDUCTION AND CLIMATECHANGE
Prepared by the Natural Resources aEnvironmental Management & the Hazard R
Reduction and Climate Change Task Forc
June 20
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
3/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 3
Page NumbersList of Acronyms
Chapter 1: Setting the Context 4
Chapter 2: Situational Analysis 10
Chapter 3: SWOT Analysis 23
Chapter 4: Strategic Vision and Planning Framework 28
Natural Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard RiskReduction & Climate Change Indicators and Targets
33
Chapter 5: Implementation Framework and Action Plan 36
Long Term Action Plan 2009 2030 38
Table of Contents
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
4/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 4
Introduction
Jamaicas economic development and livelihoods and
patterns of settlement have been closely tied to the natural
resource base of the island. In a relatively small area the
island has an array of coastal and terrestrial resources,
including tropical ecosystems, forests, dry limestone
forests, scrub, coastal - etc. The description land of wood
and water speaks to the forest cover and water resources,
some of which have been degraded.
Natural resources of the land, air and water may be viewed
as capital, providing essential services for economic and
social development. The functions of a healthy
environment such as nutrient cycling, flood control,
climate control, soil productivity, forest health, pollination,
waste assimilation and natural pest control underpin
economic development and sustain human health. Ahealthy, natural environment is a fundamental basis for
sustainable development and human survival.
The economic and social well-being of Jamaica is directly
linked to the state of its natural resources and the quality of
the environment. The islands economic activities
(tourism, mining etc.) if not carefully undertaken, can negatively impact on the quality of
the environment and natural resources. For example, the tourism sector can be negatively
impacted if the natural environment is degraded. There is the need to consider resource
utilization in more sustainable terms. Additionally, each of Jamaicas important economic
sectors therefore has significant environmental aspects and impacts. In spite of the
interdependence between the Jamaica economy and the natural environment, there is
Main Challenges - Jamaicas
Natural Environment
Some of the main challenges beingexperienced in Jamaicas naturalenvironment include:
Proneness to natural and man-madehazards
Inadequate incorporation ofenvironmental issues into sectoralpolicies
Inadequate emphasis on preventivemaintenance
SquattingRapid urbanizationLack of support by citizenry and
political directorate for sustainabledevelopment commitments
Relevant agencies do not buy intointegrated approach to environmentalmanagement
Inadequate financial resourcesJamaicas location, geology and
geography make the island prone toseveral natural hazards. The majorthreats include landslides, hurricanes,floods, droughts and earthquakes.These hazards when combined withsituations of high vulnerability usuallyresult in disasters of varying severity.
Chapter 1: Setting the Context
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
5/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 5
evidence of a tendency to undervalue natural capital. The result is lack of sustainable use
of resources leading to resource depletion and environmental degradation.
There is therefore need to consider resource utilization in more sustainable terms.
TABLE 1: ECOSYSTEMS GOODS AND SERVICES
ECOSYSTEM GOODS SERVICESAgro-ecosystem Food Crops
Genetic resources Habitat Build Soil Organic Matter Carbon Sequestration Employment
Coastal and MarineEcosystem
Fish & Shell Fish Genetic resources Storm Moderation (mangroves) Wildlife Habitat
Biodiversity Maintenance Aesthetic enjoyment & recreation Employment
Forest Ecosystems Timber Fuelwood Genetic resources Drinking &
Irrigation Water
Non-timberProducts
Pollution control, Oxygen Emission Watershed Maintenance Carbon Sequestration Biodiversity Maintenance Soil Production Habitat Employment
Aesthetic enjoyment &recreation
FreshwaterEcosystem
Drinking &Irrigation Water
Food Genetic resources
Waste Assimilation Habitat Cycle nutrients Transport corridor Carbon Sequestration Aesthetic enjoyment and recreation
Although Jamaica has made substantial improvements in environmental management,
many challenges still remain and need to be addressed. Recent evaluations of the state of
the environment indicate that there is a number of worrying trends. Among these are:
deteriorating air and water quality, poor management of solid, liquid and hazardous
wastes, loss of biodiversity, watershed degradation and net loss of forests cover and
increasing incidence of fires.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
6/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 6
The current state of the Jamaican environment is a concern for both state and non-state
actors. Additionally, the many complexities and unique features of the Jamaican
environment require a focus on strategies that can be utilized to ensure that the countrys
developmental objectives are compatible with the natural environment and in keeping
with the tenets of sustainable development. In recognition of the importance of the
aforementioned, many of governments sectoral policies over the past ten to twelve years,
have reflected the importance of sustainability and seek to take into account social
environmental and economic factors. The main planning instrument for environmental
conservation and sustainable development is the Jamaica National Environmental Action
Plan (JANEAP).
Actions taken to fulfill human needs are increasingly being recognized to have local,
regional and global environmental consequences. Jamaica situation is not unique to this,
and as a result tremendous time and effort is being spent on sensitizing and educating the
population on issues related to the environment; improvements in existing legislation and
the formulation of new policies. Actions geared towards sustainability are particularly
important for a small island state such as Jamaica, as there is a close relationship between
the ecological, economic and social systems.
Additionally, over the last two decades, natural hazards have had significant impact on
economic activities, property, human welfare and natural resources. Between 1991 and
2005, six major events resulted in losses estimated at J$53.03 billion, an average of US$
J$ 8.8 billion per event. Disasters have potentially significant implications for public
finance, increasing expenditure, reducing domestic revenue and in turn resulting in
increased domestic and external borrowing. There are few options to reduce the
occurrence and intensity of most natural hazards. As such greater emphasis needs to be
placed on hazard risk management activities and programmes for reducing existing and
future vulnerability to damage and loss. A natural hazard mitigation policy has been
developed and approved by Cabinet. This policy however, needs to be complemented by
an action plan. Among the more urgent priorities are hazard data collection and mapping,
vulnerability assessment, risk assessment, watershed management and risk transfer
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
7/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 7
measures such as insurance.
Jamaica has initiated various policy responses to address environmental and planning
issues new policies, strategies and action plans, laws and regulations, and becoming
party to several multilateral and regional environmental agreements. Notwithstanding,
much of the problems hindering progress in the environment and sustainable
development arena relate to the inadequate policy, legislative and institutional capacity in
critical areas of the system. In addition to a number of general outdated legislation, a
critical issue is the inadequate enforcement of existing legislation. Another issue is that
relevant institutions involved in environmental management lack the capacity (financial,
human, physical) to effectively execute their mandates and are unable to deal with the
complex nature of current problems. Some of this is manifested in the level of post-permit and on-going monitoring and in the countrys inability to effectively use market-
based incentives or disincentives to improve environmental management.
Vision 2030 Sector Plan Planning ProcessThis Sector Plan for Natural Resources and Environmental Management is premised on a
vision shared by hundreds of Jamaicans on the state of the natural environment and the
importance of protecting and preserving it and the important roles society can collectively
play in shaping the planning process to 2030. Additionally, incorporated in this sector
plan is a set of adaptation strategies to better enable Jamaica to cope with the impacts
associated with climate change. Climate change is included in this context because of the
many impacts that its effects can have on natural resources and consequently the state of
the natural environment. Reducing disaster risk such as those that can be created by
climate change and protecting the natural environment are complementary and often
involve identical practices1.
Integrating disaster risk reduction, climate change and environmental management is an
appropriate method for addressing disaster as the integration is known to create many
synergies, such as reducing the cost of implementing parallel programmes and activities.
1Subsequent drafts will include a more fulsome discourse on hazards and climate change
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
8/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 8
It is one of thirty chapters that would form the foundation for the development of Jamaica
2030 a 25-year plan designed to put Jamaica in a position to achieve developed country
status by 2030. Vision 2030 is based on a fundamental vision to make Jamaica the place
of choice to live, work, raise families, and do business,and on guiding principles which
put people at the centre of Jamaicas transformation.
The preparation of the Plan will be supported by a quantitative systems dynamics model
Threshold 21 (T21) which supports comprehensive, integrated planning that would
enable the consideration of a broad range of interconnected factors along economic,
social and environmental considerations and will be used to project future consequences
of different strategies across a whole range of indicators. In addition, it will enable
planners to trace causes of changes in any variable or indicator back to the assumptions.
The sector plan was developed using the following processes:
Task Force Meetings and Working Group Meetings that were used to solicit ideasand views from members2on natural resources and environmental managementissues and challenges facing Jamaica as well as identifying a vision for the sector,and determining key goals, outcomes, strategies and actions for the sector over theperiod 2008 to 2030
A workshop that enabled the members to focus both on natural resources andenvironmental management issues as well as hazards and climate change
Research on international best practices in natural resources and environmentalmanagement as well as climate change that could be adopted in the Jamaicancontext
Strategic meetings of the working group, along with the chairs of the respectiveTask Forces
This document is structured in the following chapters as follows: Chapter 1: Setting the Context Chapter 2: Situational Analysis Chapter 3: SWOT Analysis Chapter 4: Strategic Vision and Planning Framework for the Natural Resources &
Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction and Climate ChangeSector Plans Chapter 5: Implementation Framework and Action Plan for the Natural Resources
& Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate ChangeSectors
2 See Appendix 1 for List of Members of the Natural Resources and Environmental Management TaskForce, the Hazard Risk Reduction and Climate Change Task Force and the Working Group
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
9/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 9
Appendices
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
10/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 10
Jamaicas main economic activities tourism, mining, agriculture and fishing rely
significantly on the countrys rich natural resource-base. Notwithstanding, Jamaicas
natural capital is showing signs of degradation. Coral reefs for example, are one of the
foundations of the countrys tourism industry and present a protective barrier against
storms and are sources of food, employment and recreation. However, Jamaicas coral
reefs are in decline with mean coral cover at 10-meter depth3declining from 52% in the
1970s to 3% in the 1990s.4
Although Jamaica has made substantial improvements in environmental management,
many challenges still remain and need to be addressed. Recent evaluations of the state of
the environment indicate that there is a number of worrying trends. Among these are:
deteriorating air and water quality, poor management of solid, liquid and hazardous
wastes, loss of biodiversity, watershed degradation and net loss of forests cover and
increasing incidence of fires. Additionally, while data and analysis of environmental
problems have improved in recent years, serious gaps and a lack of time series data
hamper efforts to use quantitative indicators to spot emerging problems, assess policy
options and gauge the effectiveness of environmental programmes.5
Notwithstanding, Jamaica ranked 54 out of 147 countries in the 2008 Environmental
Performance Index (EPI)6. Jamaica outperformed countries such as the Netherlands
(which placed 9th on the Human Development Index 2007 compared to Jamaicas
position of 101) and along with the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Jamaica are the
leaders in the Caribbean in environmental protection and sustainability.78
3Deeper reefs are in better condition however, overall decline of reefs is a major concern4Country Environmental Assessment for Jamaica 200, IDB52008 Environmental Performance Index. World Economic Forum6Twenty-five environmental indicators build the index which centres on countries environmental performance. TheEPI tracks actual results related to a core set of environmental issues that governments around the world have
prioritized.7'Greener days' in Jamaica by Tony Best Published on: 1/30/08 in the Trinidad Guardian Newspaper8The EPI has two overarching objectives: reducing environmental stresses on human health; and promoting ecosystemvitality and sound natural resource management
Chapter 2: Situational Analysis
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
11/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 11
Situational Analysis Overview9
The Situational Analysis presented here represents an overview of the state of the natural environment and is structured accordingly:
Part 1 - Information on the Jamaicas natural habitats and environmental resources (location, area etc.), the state of thesehabitats, issues and challenges related to the habitats and governance/management issues related to each of the habitatsdiscussed.
Part 2 A brief discussion on the possible impacts of climate change on Jamaica
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats
Related to the Ecosystem Itself
Management and Policy Issues Other Information
Ecosystems
Coastal Zone Fish catches are being reduced by overexploitation
Coastal mangroves, wetlands and seagrass bedswhich provide breeding, feeding and
Nursery grounds for fish and shrimp are beingdestroyed
Lack of awareness, resources and expertise, hasresulted in insufficient research on variousmatters associated with ocean and coastalmanagement i.e. fisheries, coastal ecosystem,
mitigation of non-point source of pollution andsea-bed mining
Since 1998, progress is being made indeveloping broadly adapted management
plans for the ocean and coastal zone
An inventory of marine and coastalresources and conditions has been completed(started in 1995) and will provide baselineinformation for coastal zone managementand development decisions.
A coastal zone resource atlas, as well as aworking computerized Geographic
Information System database, existsMarine protected areas exists, with three of
these being classified as marine parks while
the other two include both land and marineareas.
A National Programme of Action (NPA) toaddress Land-Based Activities and Sources(LBS/LBA)of marine and coastal
The nature of the Jamaicascoastline has given rise to theformation of a unique
ecosystem of harbours, sandybeaches, rocky shores,estuaries, wetlands, and coral
reefs.
To a large extent the countrys
major cities and towns have
developed along the coastlineincluding the capital cityKingston which sits on theseventh largest natural harbour
in the world and the majortourism towns of Montego Bay,Ocho Rios, Negril and PortAntonio, all of which lay along
9A full situational analysis on natural resources and environmental has already been prepared and is available from the PIOJ
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
12/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 12
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationdegradation exists and provides anintegrated management framework that
enables all relevant national and local actorsto reduce environmental degradation andhabitat damage
the coastline.
Beaches Beach Erosion two main causes: natural andman-made causes
Illegal sand mining is a longstanding problemand continues due to the lack of enforcement
Recreational coastal and marine water quality isinfluenced by several factors including thedischarge of sewage and industrial effluent intothe coastal and marine waters, non-point source
discharges from agricultural activities, urbanrunoff and modifications of natural systems(including the destruction of wetlands),
urbanization and the growth of informalsettlements in coastal areas.
Water sports, boating, yachting, fishing andcommercial shipping activities generate anddischarge wastes into the near shore waters.
Solid waste washed up or dumped on bathingbeaches is a constant problem. Solid waste isderived from many sources including illegaldumping from ships at sea; waste from urban
and agricultural environments washed down inrivers or storm gullies and then carried byinshore currents towards the beaches; wind
driven wastes; and negligence by users of thebeach.
Tourist developments, primarily hotels andresorts along the coastal strip, have leftfewer good beaches available for public use.
There exists few operational public bathingbeaches and commercial recreational
beaches.
There is little documentation on theownership, size and boundaries of most of
the fishing beaches. As a result, conflictshave arisen between fishing groups andother beach users such as hoteliers and
property developers.
Unregulated development of infrastructureon fishing beaches, often results in shanty
villages with poor liquid and solid wastedisposal practices.
The Beach Control Act regulates rights tothe foreshore and the floor of the sea inJamaican waters. Provisions contained in theAct govern commercial and recreational
activities; the control and management ofdevelopment on the beach through licensing
provisions and the protection of the marine
ecosystem.
Jamaicas beaches are amongthe most important naturalresources to the economy. The
beaches of Jamaica are ofinternational renown, and areone of the main factorscontributing to the growth andsuccess of the island's tourist
industry.
Fishing beaches are relativelyevenly distributed along thecoast.
There are eighty-seven (87)
public recreational beachesused by the public for bathing,of which eighteen (18) arecommercial recreational
beaches. There are two hundredand seventy-five beachesassociated with guest houses
and villas, sixty (61) bathingbeaches associated with hotels(Map 2), and one hundred and
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
13/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 13
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other InformationSquatting is a major problem at fishing beaches. A National Beach Policy for the
Management of the Beach, Foreshore, Floor
of the Sea exists but needs to bepromulgated to effectively guide and
provide the framework for the management
of beaches in Jamaica. Additonally, aJamaica Coral Reef Action Plan and Coral
Reef Policy has been prepared and aNational Policy for the Conservation ofSeagrasses has also been drafted andcomplements the goals and objectives of thecoral reef and the beach policies.
twenty-one (121) fishingbeaches.
Wetlands Coastal wetlands are increasingly threatened byinfrastructure development and conversion fromnatural habitat to other uses.
Conversion of large tracts of coastal wetlands,particularly mangroves, for commercial uses.
Widening and deepening wetland rivers hasreduced the ecological value of these areas by
slowing the run-off of floodwaters. This has ledto an increase in peak fresh water flows tocoastal areas contributing to the death of coral
reefs.
Draining land for agriculture has caused wetlanddestruction.
Reclaiming of landClimate changeFires - wetlands are also destroyed by fires some
of which are spontaneous, while some are
No overarching and coherent policyframework exists for wetland management .A mangrove and coastal wetlands protection
policy was drafted by NRCA from as far
back as 1996, but still remains in draft andawaiting completion.
Wetland management in Jamaica iscomplicated by the fact that most wetlandsare on private lands and the constitutionallows private landowners great latitude in
the use and disposal of their property.
The level of wetland modification approvedby NEPA is a concern being expressed byvarious civil society groupings.
Wetlands at one time comprisedas much as 2% of Jamaicastotal surface area. Today the
area covered by wetlands havebeen reduced significantly, dueprimarily to land filling and
modifications made to thenatural drainage regime in some
locations. It is estimated thatJamaica has lost approximately30% of the islands mangroveforests; currently an area of 106
sq.km is still covered inmangroves.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
14/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 14
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationdeliberately set by humans.
Pollutants pollutants directly affectingwetlands include garbage, sewage, industrialwaste (mainly from sugar factories), and oil
spills.
Non-point source pollution by agro-chemicals,nutrients, and other materials used in agricultureLarge scale pumping from coastal aquifers,
which affects the water balance inducing
saltwater intrusion
Coral Reefs In the last 35 years, there has been a preceipitousdrop in coral cover around the island.
Coral diseases & Coral bleachingStorm/hurricane damageExcessive nutrients from sewage pollutionSiltation and poor watershed management
practices
Over-fishing and indiscriminate fishing practicesInappropriate recreational practicesCoastal PollutionDeath of Sea-Urchin the 1983 mass mortality
of the sea urchin (Diadema), an importantspecies in the control algae resulted in
significant coral damage as reefs becameclogged by algal overgrowth.
A draft Coral Reef Protection andPreservation Policy (1997) exists which setsout the framework for the management ofthe islands reefs. This policy also supports
the International Coral Reef Initiative Callto Action and Framework for Action. These
policies remain in draft form.
Need to ensure that an effective managementframework for coral reefs are put in place inlight of their vulnerability to the effects ofclimate change and natural disasters.
Jamaican reefs have high valuebecause of their high
biodiversity and role infisheries, tourism and shoreline
protection. Thus, in addition to
their ecological importance,Jamaicas coral reefs have highsocio-economic, cultural andeducational value, providing a
range of invaluable productsand services.
Fisheries Data on the fishing industry is collectedirregularly and there are many discrepancies
The Fishing Industry Act - The object of theAct is to manage the fisheries resources of
Jamaican fisheries are made uplargely of artisanal fishermen
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
15/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 15
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationamong the various sources.
The inshore fishery is considered to be severelyoverexploited
The fishery on the Pedro and Morant banks arepartially exploited, considered to be at, or near
their estimated sustainable yield with respect tolobster and conch
Loss of habitat for fish due to coastaldegradation and pollution
Use of destructive fishing gearLack of awareness by fishermen on fisheries
management issues
Poaching by foreign fishing vesselsFishers not respecting closed seasons and other
fisheries regulations
Lack of adequate enforcement
Jamaica. The Act, however, has not keptpace with the evolution of fishing and the
attendant resource management issues, andin this regard, a new Act which will providean institutional framework for the
management, planning, development andconservation of fisheries resources inJamaica is scheduled to be passed soon.
operating from open canoe typeboats powered by either
outboard motors or oars. Asmall number of fishermen, buteconomically significant, are
engaged in industrial fishing(mainly on the Pedro Bank) forconch, spiny lobster and reeffish. There is also a small
commercial sport fisheryassociated with tourism and asmall recreational fishery.
Forest
Ecosystems
In recent years, deforestation has led to thedeterioration of more than a third of Jamaicas
watersheds, drying up streams and rivers
Sixty-four per cent (64%) of Jamaicas forestsare unprotected, are under private ownership or
are Crown Lands.
Jamaicas forest cover has been under seriouspressure for the production of yam sticks,charcoal, resort and residential development,timber extraction, grazing, and cropping. The
lack of soil and water conservation measures hasled to high rates of soil erosion, loss of nutrients,and reduction of water retention capacity in
The last assessment of forest cover inJamaica was undertaken in 1998.
There currently exists a Forestry Policy(2001) which sets out the framework for theconservation and protection of forests.
About 30 percent of Jamaica,approximately 336,000hectares, is classified as forest.
Jamaicas forests are consideredto be a major repository of
biodiversity, especially endemic
flora and fauna.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
16/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 16
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationwatersheds. Improper road construction andlogging operations, both legal and illegal, in pine
plantations, have also contributed to theproblem.
The majority of forest land has been disturbedand degraded, and only about 8 percent of theisland remains as natural forest showing little
evidence of human disturbance. Forests arethreatened by industrial, agricultural and urbandevelopment.
Bauxite Mining - the Forestry Department hasstated that bauxite mining is the single largestcause of deforestation in Jamaica. In 50 years ofoperation, the industry has stripped 5,099
hectares of trees, including some 3,218 hectaresof forest.
Watersheds Each of Jamaicas 26 watershed managementunits has portions considered to be degraded,while 10 of these units are considered severelydegraded.
Reduced tree and vegetative cover andproductivity of land
Heavy siltation of rivers, reservoirs, irrigationcanals, water intakes, beaches and harbours
Increased surface runoff (due to excavation ofslopes, diminished vegetation cover, compactedsoils)
Reduced storage and availability of waterSevere flooding, especially during the hurricane
season resulting in considerable losses in life,
Unsuitable farming practices such as over-cultivation of steep slopes has long beenrecognized as the single most important
cause of the degradation of watersheds inJamaica.
Large scale removal of trees from watershedareas, illegal mining, unapproved andinformal quarrying of sand and limestone,housing programmes and squattersettlements has contributed to the high rateof deforestation.
Trees are cut for fuel wood and charcoalproduction, yam sticks and lumber and theproblem is aggravated by forest fires thatoccur during extended periods of drought.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
17/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 17
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationagricultural crops and other property anddamage to roads
Increased marine and coastal contamination anddegradation adversely affecting recreational
tourism and economic use of beaches and the
coastal zoneLoss of habitat for important flora for fauna
The 26 watershed management units needingurgent remedial work to bring them back to
an acceptable state of health. This needs tobe done to improve the availability and
quality of water.
The Watershed Protection Act provides aframework for the management ofwatersheds in Jamaica. The 26 watershedmanagement units are declared under theAct.
Biodiversity
and Biological
Resources
14 animal and endemic species and over 200plant endemic species are classified as criticallyimperiled or especially vulnerable to extinction.
Deforestation, wetland destruction and coral reefdegradation have resulted in both the reductionand loss of biodiversity
Population growth, coupled with agricultural,industrial and commercial expansion, has
resulted in intense competition for land.Awareness by the general public and public
sector entities on the importance of biodiversityis limited and in many instances, biodiversityissues are not infused into national and sectoral
policies
Poverty and over-consumption by certain sectorsof the society are contributing to the decline in
biological resources for example, thecommunities closest to the most vulnerable
Jamaicas current environmental legislationprovides a basic framework for theconservation and sustainable use of
biodiversity. There are at least 52 pieces oflegislation which have aspects that directlyrelate to the management of the
environment. However, very few of thesestatutes deal comprehensively with the
protection, conservation and sustainable use
of biodiversity, as they are primarily sectoralin nature.
The Wild Life Protection Act is the onlystatute
10in Jamaica that specifically protects
designated species of animals and regulateshunting in Jamaica.
The Convention on Biological Diversitycreates the framework for Parties toimplement national legislative, policy and
Jamaica has a high level of
plant endemism and has beenrated fifth among islands of theworld for its endemic plants.
Jamaica also has high levels ofendemism for many species ofanimals such as snails, crabs,
amphibians, reptiles and landbirds.
10National Strategy and Action Plan on Biodiversity in Jamaica
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
18/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 18
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationbiological resources are among the countryspoorest.
administrative measures.
The status of the islands biologicalresources need to be accurately quantified.Whilst data is available on some species,
there exists limited data on the lower plant
orders.Whilst the introduction of exotic species is
regulated, there still exist concerns aboutaccidental introduction of species.
Greater efforts need to be made tounderstand the intrinsic and economic valuesof the countrys biological resources.
Parks and
Protected
Areas
Currently, public understanding of the benefitsfrom conservation and protection is insufficient
Inadequate financing to apply conservation andprotection management in protected areas
Accessing financial resources to undertakeassessments in order to determine the status of
many of the 100 areas that are scheduled to bedeclared as protected areas, and putting into
place interim measures to ensure their
conservation
A policy framework exists for the NationalSystem of Protected Areas. This policydocument is entitled, Policy for JamaicasSystem of Protected Areas.
Marine and national parks provide managerswith an opportunity to control activities
likely to impact negatively on the resourceswithin national parks
Government and non-governmentalorganizations have been involved in themanagement of protected areas
A new five-year management Plan wasdeveloped Blue and John Crow Mountain
National Park. The main purpose of the Plan
is to guide the management of the nationalpark around two main areas of focus: theconservation of plants and wildlife; and, the
provision of nature-based recreational
The value of protected areas has
been recognized internationally.Whilst protected areas cannotcure all environmental ills,
when effectively managed, theyconserve biodiversity, protectwatersheds and coastlines,
assist in flood control,groundwater recharge, habitat
protection, provide clean water,food, medicinal plants,
economic benefits in andaround protected areas as wellas recreational and educational
opportunities.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
19/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 19
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other Informationopportunities by all its co-management
partners.
A National Park Trust exists; however, itdoes not have the necessary capital to
provide funding for all parks and protected
areas presently declared. User Fees Regulations are currently being
developed for all national parks.
Freshwater
Ecosystems
Seawater/saltwater intrusion of coastal aquiferscaused by over-pumping of the aquifer, pumping
below sea level and poor well design. Theintrusion caused by over-pumping of wells iscommon particularly near densely populatedareas where the groundwater is oftentimes
affected by improper or inadequate sewagedisposal and wastewater treatment.
The quality of water found in many of Jamaicasrivers is threatened, due to overburdening with
wastes.
11
Discharges from the agricultural,industrial and mining contribute significantly towater pollution.
Caustic soda contamination red mud of groundand surface water from bauxite alumina plants the ponding of these caustic wastes has leached
sodium into underground water systems and hascontaminated surface water resources.
Sources of freshwater in
Jamaica are: Surface water: rivers
and streams
Groundwater: wells andsprings
Rainwater harvestingGroundwater is the mostimportant source of freshwater,
accounting for 84% of theavailable fresh water resources.Jamaicas surface waterresources account for
approximately 16% of totalwater resources.
11U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 2001, Water Resources Assessment of Jamaica,
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
20/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 20
PART 1 STATE OF JAMAICAS NATURAL HABITATS
Key Issues and Challenges & Threats Management and Policy Issues Other InformationContamination of groundwater by seepage from
unlined waste disposal sites and leaking
underground petroleum storage tanks
Organic and bacteriological contamination ofgroundwater caused by seepage from soak-away
pits for sewage disposalPoor land use and inappropriate construction
practices which lead to a flow reduction in somerivers, increased erosion and higher levels of
turbidity in streams.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
21/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 21
Part 2 Possible Impacts of Climate Change on JamaicaSmall island and coastal nations of the
world such as Jamaica have long been
recognized as being among the most
likely to be affected by the potential
impacts of global climate change. The
inextricable linkage between climate
change and disaster management emerges
from the potential of the former to result
in an increased frequency and severity of
hydro-meteorological hazards and the
associated increase in risk faced bycountries as a whole and by vulnerable
communities in particular. For Jamaica,
the most visible of these impacts has been
the increasing vulnerability to severe
storms such as Hurricanes, Dean (2005)
and Ivan (2004) and the increased
frequency and intensity of flood events.
Hazard impacts resulting from climate
variability have exposed the vulnerability
of key economic sectors: tourism,
agriculture, fisheries, and water resources.
These identified vulnerabilities are further exacerbated by human activities such as
settlement patterns, land use, economic activities and poor policy development and
management. Additionally, the impacts of climate change are magnified by abuse of thenatural environment for example, the destruction or inappropriate use and management
of natural resources. This abuse is rarely due to the activities of poor communities, but
moreso to large mega projects, illegal logging and deforestation, over-fishing, mining,
and in some cases governmental neglect. But because of this environmental damage it is
much more difficult for poor communities to cope with climate change.
Projected Climate Change Effects for
the Caribbean 2050 (IPCC)
A 1.5-2 C increase in temperature; Subsequent increase in evaporation
losses;
Decreased precipitation continuationof a trend of rainfall decline observed insome parts of the region;
Projections by 2050 for the length of therainy season down by 7-8%;
Projections by 2050 for the length of thedry season up by 6-8%;
Increased frequency of intense rains up an average of 3% and projected
to increase to 20% by 2050; Increased erosion and contamination of
coastal areas;
Sea Level Rise median projection 40cm by 2080 causing increased
salt water intrusion, augmented by stormsurges;
Strongest hurricanes more intense,increasing disaster losses;
General increase in extreme events droughts, floods; and
Increased intensity of heavy rain events rapid run-off/flash floods, causing soil
Erosion, run-off of contaminants, andadverse effects on coastal waters.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
22/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 22
Climate change is therefore considered to be the most pervasive and truly global of all
issues affecting humanity and poses a serious threat to the environment as well as to
economies and societies. Possible impacts of climate change on Jamaica include:
Sea-level rise climate change is expected to cause a rise in sea levels by about20cm by the year 2030. Melting ice is responsible for a significant portion of theobserved sea level rise globally, with the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets beingthe largest contributors. In Jamaica sea-level rise is expected to compound beacherosion and cause permanent inundation in some areas.
Declines in agriculture yields rising sea level is expected to increase thepotential for the flooding of farmland and increase the sodium chloride content ofcoastal groundwater. The IPCC predicts declines in grain yields of between 10and 15% the Caribbean over the next 50 years, due to increased rainfall anddesertification. This could result in one in eight persons being susceptible tofamine.
Severe repercussions on the tourist industry accelerating erosion and flooding,causing loss of beach, loss of amenity value and infrastructural damage to name afew. Climate change may have already affected Jamaicas reefs. The death oflarge numbers of corals in 1988 and 1990 have been attributed to the increase intemperatures of coastal waters
Thus, for Jamaica which depends heavily on tourism and agriculture for their livelihoods,
these impacts could be ruinous.
In conclusion therefore, a healthy environment enhances societys disaster resilience in
two ways:
It reduces the impact of natural and human-induced disasters and it naturallymitigates against events
Conversely, environmental degradation increases disaster risk from landslides,tsunamis, floods, droughts and other hazards. For example, natural resourcesmanagement measures such as protecting soils from erosion and eventualdesertification through sustainable farming reduce peoples vulnerability todrought and flood.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
23/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 23
This SWOT Analysis presents a review and analysis of the state of Jamaicas natural environment, but focuses on some of the
legislative and resources issues that are resulting in the environmental issues the country faces. This SWOT methodology provided
one framework for identifying goals, objectives and strategies and integrating them in the overall sector plan.
The SWOT Analysis for natural resources and environmental management presented below is structured around the following 5
thematic areas:
1. Legislative Framework2. Institutional Framework3. Capacity and Resources4. Policy5. Physical/Social Issues
The SWOT is specific to natural resources and environmental management issues only.
Legislative
Framework
Institutional
Framework
Capacity and
Resources
Policy
Framework
Physical/Socia
Issues
Strengths Party to severalinternationalconventions which
enables us toaccess funding for
environmentalprogrammes
Increased mediacoverage has generatedinterest in
environmental issuesby the general public
Availability oftechnicallyqualified
environmentalprofessionals
Richbiodiversity,abundant natur
beauty andnatural resource
(e.g. freshwaterresources)
Weaknesses Outdated laws,national physical plan
Inadequate institutionalcoordination leads to
Unavailability ofgood quality data
Political influenceresults in high
Chapter 3: SWOT Analysis
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
24/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 24
Legislative
Framework
Institutional
Framework
Capacity and
Resources
Policy
Framework
Physical/Socia
Issuesetc. policy incoherence,
lack of commonstandards, policy gaps,
lack of implementationof policy and lack of
infusion ofenvironmental issues
into sectoral policies
Key institutions areineffective in the
delivery of theirmandates
Local Governmentmultiplicity of lawswhich inhibit holistic
application -
Lack of accountabilityin key institutions
Inadequate system formonitoring theenvironment, noculture of enforcement,
roles andresponsibilities not
well defined,oftentimes resulting in
agency conflict andoverlap
and information
(for ecosystemsand natural
hazards) hindersscientific rigour in
policydevelopment,
includinginvestment policies
Lack ofinformation oncarrying capacity
in critical areas
Low levels offunding allocated
(budgetarysupport) in the
national budget forenvironmental and
natural resources NGO sector
disorganized and
lack financialsustainability
level decisions
being made inisolation of
planningframework and
data Insufficient
capacity for policyimplementation at
both national andlocal level
Weak nationalpolicy framework
Unresolved andmounting
environmentalissues e.g. waste
(e-waste, whitewaste, hazardous
waste), air andwater pollution,
loss of biodiversityetc.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
25/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 25
Legislative
Framework
Institutional
Framework
Capacity and
Resources
Policy
Framework
Physical/Socia
Issues NGO sector
disorganized and lack
financial sustainability
Opportunities National DisasterManagement
Framework
Access toInformation Act
Local GovernmentReform
Existence of bestpractices that
could be adopted
Suitably situatedfor use ofalternative and
new technologies
Global trendtowards the
development ofsustainable
economic sectors(e.g. sustainable
tourism,transportation etc.)
Existence ofenvironmentallobby groups
Increase awarenessand interest ofenvironmental
issues by thepublic
StrategicEnvironmental
Assessment Policyand process now atthe implementation
stage couldinfluence the
inclusion ofenvironmental
issues into sectoralpolicies
Local SustainableDevelopmentPlanning
Frameworkdeveloped
Threats Governmententities sometimes
Lack of capacity tounderstand the
Overdependenceon non-renewable
Persistentpoverty
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
26/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 26
Legislative
Framework
Institutional
Framework
Capacity and
Resources
Policy
Framework
Physical/Socia
Issuesdo not adhere to
environmentallaws
Manyenvironmental
policies developedbut notpromulgated
resulting incontinued
degradation ofnatural resources
linkages between
environmentalissues and
economic policy(not enough lateral
thinking) Lack of political
will and vision
(related toenvironment)
energy sources
Open accessmanagement resulting in
Tragedy of the
Commons Macroeconomic
policy
High vulnerabilityof criticaleconomic assets
Globalization creating
openness tounsustainable
consumption an
productionpatterns
Climate changeand the
likelihood ofmore intense
cyclonic eventsand coastal
flooding
The countrysproneness tonatural and man
made disasters
Overexploitatioof renewablesources
This SWOT analysis along with the Situational Analysis presented above, will form the basis for identifying goals, objectives and
strategies that could be employed to addresses the weaknesses endemic to the sector, and capitalize on the opportunities towards
achieving the vision identified above. The weaknesses and threats identified through the SWOT analysis are consistent with some of
the key weaknesses, opportunities and threats identified.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
27/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 27
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
28/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 28
Chapter 4:
Strategic Vision and Planning Framework for Natural
Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard RiskReduction and Climate Change Sector Plans
Vision StatementWe will work together to adopt and promote measures that will help develop a
sustainable society, achieve and enhance a healthy natural environment in harmony with
the social and economic aspirations of Jamaica
The vision is based on a series of assumptionsarticulated by the task forces during their meetings.Some of these assumptions include:
Increased environmental awareness Effective regulatory framework which
binds government and people Data driven decision making with
meaningful public participation, free ofpolitical interference
Development that takes place within thecarrying capacity of natural resourceconstraints
Informed committed leadership who are allchampions for the environment
Constitutional and legislative reform right to a healthy environment, citizensright to appeal
Preservation and renewal of ecological capital
This vision provides one of the foundations on which the sector plan will be built.
Goals, and Outcomes - Development in Harmony with Nature
Human wealth and prosperity is based on the use and consumption of natural resources,
including materials, energy and land. Natural resources and the environment were once
regarded as free goods (or factors of production) and the costs of using them were not
Chapter 4: Strategic Vision and Planning
Framework
We will work together to adopt
and promote measures that will
help develop a sustainable
society, achieve and enhance a
healthy natural environment in
harmony with the social andeconomic aspirations of Jamaica
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
29/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 29
internalized into production costs. This approach has led to a situation in which natural
resources are over used and environmental services are under valued, which have resulted
in environmental degradation. The perception that environmental resources are free,
needs to be discontinued as this approach creates high environmental costs and social
inequities, in particular for those who are not using those natural resources directly.
Jamaicas natural resources are an important part of the countrys natural heritage and the
foundation for future prosperity.
The sustainable use and management of natural resources is critical and globally has
come into focus and been the subject of many policy discussions for over a decade
beginning with the Earth Summit in Rio
de Janeiro in 1992. The use of natural
resources and the resulting impacts arestrongly influenced by the prevailing type
and efficiency of available technologies.
The high level of interdependence
between the environment and economic
and social systems in Small Island
Developing States (SIDS) like Jamaica
means that progress in one area cannot be
attained at the expense of the other.
Protecting and managing Jamaicas
natural resources is very much about
enhancing quality of life.12
The origin of
environmental problems that the world
and certainly Jamaica is now facing lies
fundamentally in the massive expansion of overall economic activities, coupled with the
excessive and inefficient consumption of resources (e.g. deforestation, watershed
degradation, the overfishing and pollution of marine ecosystems), and the emission ofwastes beyond the environments capacity to assimilate. Unsustainable production and
consumption patterns are increasingly threatening the health of the countrys ecosystems
and biological diversity.
12Jamaica Social Evaluation Project, Goal 5. Status Report 2007, Cabinet Office
Waste Generation, Composition and Disposal
Jamaicans are estimated to generateapproximately 1 kg/per person/day of solidwaste
Total solid waste generated in Jamaica isapprox. 836, 000 tonnes. An estimated400,000 tonnes of solid waste is collected
per year leaving about another 400,000tonnes uncollected
There are eight municipal waste disposalsites in operation across the island Jamaica
but none meet all of the generallyrecognized criteria to qualify as a landfillsite There are also no sanitary landfills.
There is no designated hazardous wastedisposal facility in Jamaica.
Approx. 20% of Jamaicas population isserved by sewerage systems operated by the
NWC. The remaining 75% of Jamaicassewage wastes are disposed of through soakaway systems, septic tanks, tile fields, pit-latrines etc.
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
30/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 30
Additionally, economic losses due to resource degradation are, hard to measure and they
are not yet reflected in the countrys national accounts. As a consequence conservation of
the natural resources is not easily viewed as critical to sustaining the economy. Long-
term benefits are easily eclipsed by the need for short-term returns on investments13.
Also, Jamaica State of the Environment Report (2005) states that there is a strong
correlation between the state of the natural environment and the vulnerability of the
country to natural hazards.14
The Report sites poor environmental practices such as
improper disposal of waste. Indiscriminate removal of forest cover, poor land use
practices, squatting as exacerbating the effects of these hazards15.
To achieve the needed improvements in the use of natural resources it is also important to
strengthen the institutional andgovernance framework for
environmental management.16
This section encompasses some
of the initial steps identified that
would enable Jamaica to have an
effective and balanced approach
to natural resources andenvironmental management and
is geared towards achieving the
vision. Based on the situation analysis and analysis of the SWOT, four broad areas have
been identified for priority attention as follows:
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management Natural Resources Management Environmental Governance Natural Hazards Mitigation and Climate Change
13Jamaica National Assessment Report: A Ten Year Review of the Implementation of the 1994 Barbados Programmeof Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States. 2005. Ministry of Land andEnvironment14Jamaica National Environmental Action Plan (JANEAP) 2006 2009. National Environment and Planning Agency15Jamaica National Environmental Action Plan (JANEAP) 2006 2009. National Environment and Planning Agency16Country Environmental Assessment for Jamaica 2007, IADB
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
31/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 31
The sector plan is based on the vision: We will work together to adopt and promotemeasures that will help develop a sustainable society, achieve and enhance a healthy
natural environment in harmony with the social and economic aspirations of Jamaica.
The four (4) main goals and associated sector outcomes of the Natural Resources &
Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction Sector Plan are presented
below.
SectorGoals
HealthyProductive and
Biologically
DiverseEcosystems
SustainableManagementand Utilization
of NaturalResources
Effective,Efficient andAccountableGovernanceFramework
Culture ofHazard RiskReduction
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
32/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 32
Figure 1: Sector Goals and Outcomes
Healthy,
productive and
biologically
diverseecosystems
A ComprehensiveProgramme of
Biodiversity andEcosystem
ManagementDeveloped
The negative impact of
waste on Jamaicasecosystems reduced
Integrate/Infuseenvironmental issues in
economic and socialdecision-making
processes
Sustainable
Management &
Utilization of
NaturalResources
Mechanisms in place toensure that theManagement of
Natural Resources areconsistent with
International Standards
Natural Resources areused in a sustainable
way
Effective,
Efficient and
Accountable
GovernanceFramework
EnvironmentalLeadership Capacity
across Public andPrivate Sector
Institutions Developedand Improved
All Jamaicans are awareof environmental issues
and share responsibilityfor protecting the
environment.
A system ofenvironmentalmonitoring and
compliance created
Culture of
Hazard Risk
Reduction
A comprehensiveframework for hazard
risk reductiondeveloped
Strategies are in placeto mitigate and adapt
to climate change
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
33/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 33
Proposed Sector Indicators and Targets
The proposed indicators and targets for the Natural Resources & Environmental
Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate Change Sector Plan over the period
2009 -2030 are presented in Table below.
Table : Natural Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard Risk
Reduction & Climate Change Indicators and Targets
Sector Indicators Baseline Targets Comments
2007 or Most
Current 2012 2015 2030
1. Urban particulates PM102. Total renewable fresh
water resources (Million
cubic metres/year
3. Total renewable waterresources
4. % of tested fresh watersources with resultswithin ambient water
quality
5. Pollutants in surfacewater ( broken down by
types of pollutants
6. % of country coveredwith forest
7. # of extinct species8. # of
/endangered/vulnerable
species
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
34/58
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
35/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 35
Sector Indicators Baseline Targets Comments
2007 or Most
Current 2012 2015 2030insurance
19.% of national policiesthat includes
consideration of climate
change
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
36/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 36
Implementation FrameworkThe implementation of the Natural Resources &
Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction
& Climate Change Sector Plan is an essential component
of the implementation, monitoring and evaluation
framework for the Vision 2030 Jamaica National
Development Plan. The Plan is implemented at thesectoral level by ministries, departments and agencies
(MDAs) of Government as well as non-state
stakeholders including the private sector, NGOs and
CBOs. The involvement of stakeholders is fundamental
to the successful implementation of the National
Development Plan and the Natural Resources &
Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction
& Climate Change Sector Plan.
Accountability for Implementation and
Coordination
The Cabinet, as the principal body with responsibility
for policy and the direction of the Government, has
ultimate responsibility for implementation of the
National Development Plan. Each ministry and agency
will be accountable for implementing the National
Development Plan (NDP) through various policies,
programmes and interventions that are aligned with the
strategies and actions of the NDP and the sector plans. A
robust results-based monitoring and evaluation system
Components of Vision 2030
Jamaica - National Development
PlanThe Vision 2030 Jamaica NationalDevelopment Plan has three (3)components:
1. Integrated National DevelopmentPlan:
The integrated National Development Planpresents the overall plan for Vision 2030
Jamaica, integrating all 31 sector plans intoa single comprehensive plan for long-termnational development. The integratedNational Development Plan presents theNational Vision, the four National Goalsand fifteen National Outcomes, and theNational Strategies required to achieve thenational goals and outcomes.
2. Medium Term Socio-EconomicPolicy Framework (MTF):
The Medium Term Socio-Economic PolicyFramework (MTF), is a 3-yearly plan whichsummarizes the national priorities andtargets for the country and identifies the keyactions to achieve those targets over each 3-year period from FY2009/2010 toFY2029/2030.
3. Thirty-one (31) Sector Plans:At the sectoral level Vision 2030 Jamaicawill be implemented through the strategic
frameworks and action plans for each sectoras contained in the respective sector plans.Vision 2030 Jamaica includes a total ofthirty-one (31) sector plans covering themain economic, social, environmental andgovernance sectors relevant to national
development.
Chapter 5: Implementation Framework and
Action Plan
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
37/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 37
will be established to ensure that goals and outcomes of the Plan are achieved. This
system will build on existing national and sectoral monitoring and evaluation frameworks
and will be highly participatory.
Resource Allocation for Implementation
Vision 2030 Jamaica places great emphasis on ensuring that resource allocation
mechanisms are successfully aligned and integrated with the implementation phase of the
National Development Plan and sector plans. The requirements to ensure resource
allocation for implementation will include alignment of organizational plans in the public
sector, private sector and civil society with the National Development Plan, MTF and
sector plans; coherence between the various agency plans with the National Budget;
rationalization of the prioritisation process for public sector expenditure; and increased
coordination between corporate planners, project managers and financial officers across
ministries and agencies.
Action Plan
The Action Plan represents the main framework for the implementation of the Natural
Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate Change
Sector Plan for Vision 2030 Jamaica. The tracking of implementation of the Natural
Resources & Environmental Management and Hazard Risk Reduction & Climate Change
Sector Plan will take place through the Action Plan as well as the framework of sector
indicators and targets.
The Action Plan contains the following elements:
i. Sector Goalsii. Sector Outcomes
iii. Sector Strategiesiv. Sector Actionsv. Responsible Agenciesvi. Timeframe
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
38/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 38
LONG TERM ACTION PLAN
2009 2030
Goal # 1: Healthy, Productive and Biologically Diverse Ecosystems
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY
A Comprehensive Programme of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management DevelopedAdopt an ecosystemsmanagement approach
Develop innovative and costeffective integrated ecosystemmanagement approaches to naturalresources in different ecosystems
2009-2020 NEPA, Environmental
Management Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister
Conduct, ecological, economic, andsociological surveys to provideinformation, including indigenousknowledge to guide integratedecosystem management planningand implementation
2009-2020 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister
Conduct assessments of thelinkages between key ecosystemservices for human well-being atthe national level
2010 - 2018 NEPA, Environmental
Management Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister
Develop and implementappropriate policies, regulations,incentives and structures to supportintegrated ecosystem management
2010 - 2020 NEPA, Environmental
Management Division in
the Office of the PrimeMinister
Conduct workshops on the conceptof ecosystem management and onecosystem services, theirinterlinkages and the relationshipsto human well-being
2010 - 2015 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister
Reverse loss ofenvironmental resourcesthrough restorationinitiatives
Develop mechanisms to preventillegal exploitation and damagingof forests
2008 - 2012 NEPA, Environmental
Management Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister, Forestry
Department
Rehabilitate coral reef ecosystems 2008 - 2020 NEPA, Environmental
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
39/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 39
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister
Implement economic and technicalprogrammes to encourage farmersto practice conservation farming
2009 - 2015 Ministry of Agriculture,Office of the Prime
Minister, Rural
Agricultural Development
Authority
Set up a fund for the rehabilitationof lands degraded during bauxitemining
2008 - 2011 Ministry of Agriculture,
Office of the Prime
Minister, Ministry ofEnergy and Mining,
NEPA
Rehabilitate degraded forest 2008 - 2017 NEPA, Environmental
Management Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister, Forestry
Department
Promote sustainable use ofbiological resources
Implement programmes to raiseawareness of biodiversity issuesamong the population
2009 - 2013 NEPA, Environmental
Management Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister, Forestry
Department, Institute of
Jamaica
Develop public/community/privatesector partnership for integratedecosystem management, planningand implementation
2010 - 2017 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister, Institute of
Jamaica,
Build capacity in relevant entitiesto identify and design appropriateactions to mitigate the negative
impacts of direct/indirect drivers onecosystem services
2010 - 2017 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister
Build capacity in key entities (thosewith responsibility for ecosystems),including CBOs and NGOs foreconomic valuation of ecosystemservices
2010 - 2014 NEPA, Environmental
Management Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister
Develop and implement criteria for 2011 - 2014 NEPA, Environmental
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
40/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 40
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYthe sustainable use of resources Management Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister
Facilitate access tobiological resources forbenefit sharing
Develop appropriate mechanismsfor conflict resolution amongresource users and otherstakeholders
2011 - 2015 NEPA, EnvironmentalManagement Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister
Build capacity in institutions toensure a rights, entitlements andownership approach to encouragethe equitable access and use ofecosystem services for human well-being
2011 - 2014 NEPA, IOJ, Office of thePrime Minister
Create networks for data and
information sharing on ecosystemservices for human well-being
2011 - 2014 IOJ, NEPA, Office of the
Prime Minister
Protect traditional knowledge andcreate a traditional knowledgeregister/library
2010 NBC, IOJ, NEPA,
Environmental
Management Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister
Prepare policies and legislation tofacilitate access to biologicalresources and equitable benefitssharing
2011 - 2017 NEPA, IOJ, Office of the
Prime Minister
Enact of new Fisheries Bill 2009-2017 Fisheries Division
Finalization of a national beachpolicy
2009-2010 Management Division inthe Office of the PrimeMinister, NEPA
Prepare material transferagreements for the use and removalfrom the wild of Jamaicas floraand fauna
2011 - 2017 NEPA, ManagementDivision in the Office of
the Prime Minister,
Develop and implement a pilotproject on the use of casitas andcondomimiums as a means ofenhancing lobster populations
2009 - 2010 Fisheries Division, Ministryof Agriculture
Ensure safe transfer,handling and use of livingmodified organisms
Promulgate national bio safetypolicy
2010-2012 NCST, NEPA,Environmental
Management Division in
the Office of the Prime
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
41/58
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
42/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 42
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYwaste Management Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister, NSWMA, NEPA
Develop a waste information
system
2009-2011 Ministry of Health and the
Environment,EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister, NSWMA, PIOJ,
NEPA
Construct infrastructure forhazardous waste, includingcollection points and storagefacilities
2010-2013 NSWMA, Ministry of
Health and the
Environment,
Improve and expand the countryswaste management infrastructure
2013-2016 NSWMA, Ministry of
Health and the
Environment,Develop and implement pilotprojects on waste collection (e.g.oil, composting separation ofspecial types of waste e.g. paper,cardboard, plastics etc.
2009-2017 NSWMA, Ministry of
Health and the
Environment,
EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister, NEPA
Optimize the collection system formunicipal waste
2008-2010 NSWMA, Office of the
Prime Minister
Develop a strategic plan for wastemanagement
2009-2011 NSWMA,
Introduce economic instruments forthe management of wastes 2014-2018 NSWMA, Ministry ofHealth and theEnvironment,
EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister, NEPA, PIOJ,Ministry of Finance and
the Public Service
Develop a financially andenvironmentally sustainable systemfor environment and waste
management that responds topresent and future needs
2009-2013 NSWMA, Ministry of
Health and theEnvironment,
EnvironmentalManagement Division inthe Office of the Prime
Minister, NEPA, PIOJ,
Ministry of Finance and
the Public Service
Support dynamic and on-going initiatives on theimplications of waste on
Establish a fee structure based onthe quantity and quality ofdischarge of industrial effluents
2010 - 2012 NEPA,EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
43/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 43
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYecosystems Minister, Ministry of
Finance and the Public
Service
Develop a programme formonitoring municipal sewage andindustrial waste water treatmentplants
2008 Ongoing NEPA, NWC, NationalSolid Waste ManagementAuthority
Develop and implement costrecovery mechanisms by promotingrecycling and reuse initiatives forproper disposal of solid waste
2011 NSWMA, PIOJ, NEPA,EnvironmentalManagement Division in
the Office of the Prime
Minister, Ministry ofFinance and the Public
Service
Engage in sewage rehabilitation,operation and maintenanceprogramme to enable existingsewage treatment systems tofunction at a level to which theywere originally designed
2008 - 2014 National Water
Commission, NEPA
Establish a new sewerage systemfor the KMA
2007 - 2012 National Water
Commission
Integrate the informalsector in the management of
wastes
Develop local area plans for themanagement of wastes
2010 - 2013 NSWMA, NEPA,
Implement a code of practice forthe recovery of recyclables and theprovision of legal support in thedevelopment of recyclingprogrammes
2008 - 2011 NSWMA , NEPA, Officeof the Prime Minister
Formalize the solid waste sectorthrough the development oflicencing regulations, standards andprocedures for applicants
2009 - 2015 NSWMA, Office of thePrime Minister, NEPA
Implement cost recovery methods
through the promotion of recyclingand reuse initiatives for properdisposal of wastes
2009 - 2013 NSWMA , Ministry of
Finance and the PublicService, NEPA
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
44/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 44
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYImplement a sanitation andneighborhood clean-up/maintenance programme toimprove solid waste management,
sanitation and beautification withinDowntown Kingston
2008-2010 Kingston Restoration
Company, NSWMA,
NEPA
Create incentives for thedevelopment of markets forwaste
Implement pilot projects on theenergy potential of waste
2008-2020 PCJ, NSWMA, NEPA,PIOJ, Ministry of Energy
and Mining
Integrate/Infuse environmental issues in economic and social decision-making processesCreate mechanisms at thenational level and indecision making process toensure the use of impactassessments (biodiversity
impactassessments/SEA/HIA etc.in sectoral policydevelopment
Implement the GOJ SEA Policy 2009 onwards for allnew nationalpolicies
Cabinet Office,
Promulgate the EnvironmentalStewardship Policy
2009 Office of the Prime
Minister
Create processes that willenable the integratedmanagement andsustainable development ofJamaicas naturalresources
Adopt natural resource valuation asa key tool of the management ofnatural resources
2008-2020 NEPA, Office of the Prime
Minister,
Develop mechanisms thateffectively integrateenvironmental management
with urban planning andregional development
Provide institutional mechanisms toupgrade environmental conditionsin low income urban settlements
2011 2015 NEPA, UDC, Office of the
Prime Minister, NationalLand Agency, National
Solid Waste ManagementAuthority
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
45/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 45
Goal # 2 - Sustainable Management & Utilization of Natural
Resources
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYMechanisms in place to ensure that the management of natural resources are
consistent with international standardsCreate frameworksthat will enable theintegratedmanagement andsustainabledevelopment ofJamaicas naturalresources
Conduct an initial mapping andspecification of majorenvironmental challengesrelevant to the sector
2010 - 2012 NEPA, Office of the
Prime Minister, ForestryDepartment, Water
Resources Authority
Conduct an audit of thecountrys environmentalresources
2012 - 2014 NEPA, Forestry
Department, FisheriesDivision, WRA, Office of
the Prime Minister
Establish a national land useplan 2009 - 2012 OPM, NLA
Finalize and promulgate theprotected areas system masterplan
2009 2012
Conduct soil inventory andmapping
2012 - 2014 Ministry of Agriculture,
RADA
Control the use of hazardousand dangerous chemicals toavoid soil contamination
2013 Ministry of Agriculture
Forestry Department
Establish and introduceinstruments for the reduction of
water pollution
2008 Ongoing NEPA, Ministry of
Finance and the Public
Service, Office of thePrime Minister
Implement bestmanagementpractices for air,forest, ground andsurface water, landmanagement, soilsand resourcesconsumption
Prepare a complete inventory offorest ecosystems
2009 - 2011 Forestry Department
Develop an integrated watermanagement policy based onsustainable developmentprinciples
2009 - 2012 Water Resources
Authority, NEPA, NWC,
Ministry of Water and
Housing
Develop a national airmonitoring system
2010 - 2012 NEPA, Ministry of
Health and Environment
Introduce procedures forsustainable land management
2010 - 2015 NEPA, Office of the
Prime Minister, National
Land AgencyDevelop policies for soilprotection
2012 Ongoing NEPA, Office of the
Prime Minister, NationalLand Agency
Include an air protectioncomponent in the energy sectorand other sectoral strategies,such as transport, industry andagriculture
2009 - 2018 NEPA, Ministry of
Energy and Mining,
Ministry of Transportand Works, Office of the
Prime Minister
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
46/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 46
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYPrepare, adopt and implementregulations and procedures foremissions from stationary andmobile sources
2012 Ongoing NEPA, Ministry of
Health and Environment
Create a frameworkthat will ensure thesustainablemanagement ofnatural resources
Implement a national policyand legislation on municipalintegrated developmentplanning, and co-ordinatingLand Use ManagementSystems
2014 - 2017 NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister, NationalLand Agency,
Establish linkagesbetweenenvironmental andurban planning,regionaldevelopment and
sectoral strategies
Develop and improveinterventions and approachesthat build and enhance inter-government co-operation
2010 - 2014 Office of the Prime
Minister, NEPA, UDC,
Local GovernmentDepartment
Encourage greaterapplication of landuse planningtechniques forenvironmentalmanagement
Introduce update land usepolicy and prepare guidelinesfor land use practices in otherdevelopment policies andguidelines
2010 - 2015 National Land Agency,
Cabinet Office, Office of
the Prime Minister,NEPA
Preserve scenic,cultural and historicresources
Build capacity of institutionsinvolved in nature andbiodiversity natural and culturalheritage conservation
2012 - 2015 Office of the PrimeMinister, NEPA, UDC,
Jamaica National
Heritage Trust
Establish legal and institutional
system for protectingbiodiversity, natural andcultural heritage (andimplement components alreadyestablished)
2007 2020 NEPA, Jamaica
Conservation andDevelopment Trust,
other select NGOs,
Integrate biodiversity, naturaland cultural heritage concernsin all relevant sectors
2013 2020 NEPA, Jamaica National
Heritage Trust
Promote the use ofnew and cleantechnologies
Prepare guidelines for usingecological materials duringconstruction works
2011 2013 NEPA, Jamaica
Institution of Engineers,Construction Industry
Provide institutional support to
initiatives for use of cleantechnologies and renewableresources
2012 - 2015 NEPA, Office of the
Prime Minister, Ministryof Energy and Mining,Petroleum Corporation
of Jamaica
Develop regulations for theenergy performance ofbuildings
2008 2014 NEPA, Office of the
Prime Minister, Ministryof Energy and Mining,
Petroleum Corporation
of Jamaica, Jamaica
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
47/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 47
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC ACTIONS TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITYBureau of Standards
Introduce cleaner technologiesto replace old equipment andold industry technology
2015 - 2022 NEPA, Ministry of
Finance and the PublicService, Office of the
Prime MinisterEnsure thatGovernment meetsobligations underInternationalEnvironmentalAgreements
Natural Resources are used in a sustainable wayEngage
communities insustainable naturalresourcesdevelopment
Develop a sustainablecommunity development actionplan to guide communityengagement in naturalresources management
2011 - 2012 NEPA, NGOs, Forestry
Department, Ministry ofAgriculture
Develop programmes tosensitize and mobilizecommunities on managingnatural resources
2012 - 2015 NEPA, NGOs, ForestryDepartment
Strengthen thecapacity of localorganizations tofacilitate citizenparticipation indecision-making
affecting naturalresources
Collaborate with industrythrough a defined frameworkfor the involvement ofindustry as a partner forsolving environmentalproblems
2010 Ongoing NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister, Ministry
of Industry, Investment
and Commerce, JamaicaTrade and Invest
Prepare and implementmanagement plans for allprotected areas through anapproach involvingcommunity participation
2008 - 2014 NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister
Buildsustainabilityprinciples intosectoral policy andprogrammedevelopmentto
protect theenvironment and tosatisfy the needs ofthe population andthe economy
Monitor the impact of thetransport sector on the naturalenvironment
2010 Ongoing NEPA, Ministry of
Transport and Works,
Climate Change Unit,Met Office
Implement pilot projects for theincrease in eco-efficiency inindustry
2014 2025 NEPA, Ministry of
Industry, Investment
and Commerce, Ministryof Finance and the
Public Service
Rehabilitate and constructinfrastructure (water supply,sewage networks andwastewater treatment facilities)
2008 2015 Ministry of Water andHousing,
Develop a plan for thestimulation of scientific
2011 2018 NEPA, Office of thePrime Minister,
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
48/58
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
49/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 49
Goal # 3 - Effective, Efficient, and Accountable Governance
Framework for Environment and Natural Resources
STRATEGIES SPECIFIC
ACTIONS
TIMEFRAME RESPONSIBILITY
Environmental leadership capacity across public and private sector institutions
developed and improvedMainstreamenvironmental concernsin the decision-makingprocess to ensure the useof impact assessmentsfor development projects
BIA/SEA/HIA
Implement GOJ SEAPolicy
2009 Ongoing Cabinet Office, Office of
the Prime Minister, allministries of GOJ,
NEPA
Develop framework forthe introduction of healthimpact assessments, andbiodiversity impactassessments in policydevelopment
2014 - 2018 Cabinet Office, Office of
the Prime Minister, allministries of GOJ,
NEPA
Build openness andaccountability intoorganizational practicesand principles
Encouragetransformativeleadership inenvironmental
institutions
Create customer orientedfocus in environmentalinstitutions participatein the Governments
Build capacity systems,processes, infrastructure,and personnel ofenvironmental institutions
2009 - 2017 Office of the PrimeMinister, Cabinet Office
(PSMD), NEPA,Forestry Department,
Fisheries Division
Create frameworks toensure that environmentalinformation is accurate andaccessible to allstakeholders
Implement a Plan forPublic Education toachieve behaviour change
2010 - 2015 NEPA, Office of the
Prime Minister, NGOs
Establish mechanisms tofoster coordination and
collaboration amongresource managementagencies on resourceprotection issues.
All Jamaicans are aware of environmental issues and share responsibility for
protecting the environment
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
50/58
-
8/13/2019 Natural Resources and Environmental Managment - June 2009
51/58
Vision 2030 Jamaica - National Development Plan 51
Goal # 4: Culture of Hazard Risk Reduction
STRATEGIES SPECI