🌍 Cayman Islands Ministry launches Climate and Energy Challenge

The Ministry of Sustainability and Climate Resiliency in the Cayman Islands has initiated a Climate and Energy Challenge. The move is designed to increase public awareness about climate change and inspire residents to take proactive steps in their everyday lives. The challenge, which runs until October 13, includes a downloadable calendar featuring links to informative videos, activities, and instructions. The event concludes with a quiz and the opportunity for participants to enter a random prize giveaway. 🎁

Despite the previous government's apparent lack of action on climate change, the current minister, Kathy Ebanks-Wilks, is hopeful that this initiative will engage the community and promote resilience. She stated that climate change could potentially impact all aspects of life for Cayman Islands residents, and it's crucial to empower the community with knowledge about possible impacts. The Climate and Energy Challenge was previously hosted for civil servants earlier this year, and is now being rolled out for all residents. 🏝️

However, the government's commitment to climate change has been questioned, with critics pointing out that a comprehensive climate change policy document, written by scientists and intended for Cabinet consideration, has been left untouched. Ebanks-Wilks has admitted that the document has been edited by MPs and resubmitted to the caucus, but could not provide a timeline for its adoption. The government is also reportedly working on amendments to undermine the National Conservation Act and weaken the National Conservation Council's powers. 📜