Jamaica’s future lies in green growth and climate resilience
Jamaica is taking concrete steps to tackle climate change impact. With UNDP support, the country is investing in renewable energy technology, unlocking climate finance, and laying plans for low emissions and green future.
© PNUD Jamaica
With a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and a rich marine world, Jamaica is a popular touristic destination. Tourism directly employs 175,000 Jamaicans and supports the livelihoods of another 354,000, being a cornerstone of the local economy, together with farm agriculture and fisheries.
However, as climate change intensifies, Jamaicans are seeing their livelihoods threatened. Like other Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Jamaica is highly exposed to climate change impacts, such as more frequent and more intense storms and hurricanes, longer droughts and sea-level rise. In 2024 alone, Hurricane Beryl affected 45,000 farmers, damaged around 8,700 houses, and affected livestock and fisheries, causing an estimated economic loss of US$6.5 billion. The economic impacts compound Jamaica’s challenges of historically high levels of public debt and dependence on fossil fuel imports to meet energy and transport demands.
© PNUD Jamaica
Sea-level rise, caused by global warming, is another increasing threat. Residents along coastlines, 82 percent of whom live within five miles of the sea, are expected to see 26 to 82 centimeters sea-level rise by 2100. This is expected to impact the majority of the population as well as the country’s tourism infrastructure, which is generally located along the coast. Jamaica is also projected to experience more frequent and severe droughts, with experts forecasting up to 40 percent increase in drought conditions by 2080, jeopardizing water security.
© PNUD Jamaica
In response to these challenges, the Caribbean country is taking proactive steps to address its vulnerability to climate change and achieve its vision of developed country status by 2030. These ambitious plans are contained in Jamaica’s Climate Change Policy Framework and its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which outlines its national climate pledges under the Paris Agreement.
© PNUD Jamaica
From efforts to achieving a just transition of the workforce to a green economy, to investing in renewable energies and unlocking climate finance opportunities for a green future, UNDP is supporting Jamaica to take decisive climate action.
- Country: Jamaica
- Project:
- Contact:
Daniela Peris
