By Deanzer Roberts

In a passionate appeal for international partnership in the fight against climate change, Director of the Yantai Zero-Carbon Island Development Center, Hu Yibing, has outlined a bold vision for green and sustainable development during his remarks at the Zero Carbon Island Cooperation Conference held at the Accra Beach Hotel this week.

Speaking before a number of key stakeholders and development partners, Hu extended greetings from the coastal city of Yantai, China—proudly dubbed “Coastal Wonderland” and known for its striking natural beauty and forward-thinking environmental strategies.

“China fully understands the concerns of Barbados and other small island developing states in the field of climate change,” said Hu, echoing sentiments recently shared by Chinese President Xi Jinping during a meeting with Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley. “Our purpose here is to promote green and low-carbon cooperation and contribute to the sustainable development of the island.”

Hu described Yantai’s landmark Changdao International Zero-Carbon Island project as a shining example of what’s possible when policy, innovation, and community unite. The island—already boasting net-zero greenhouse gas targets for 2035—has banned outside vehicles, transitioned heating from coal to electricity, and ensured that 100% of new buildings meet green standards. The initiative has already eliminated over 20,000 tons of coal usage annually, cutting carbon emissions by 52,000 tons.

Efforts also extend to marine and land ecosystems, with restored algal fields and seagrass beds, cleaner waters, and increased biodiversity—including a rise in migratory bird species. Waste management, aquaculture restructuring, and green tourism models have also played key roles.

The conference also spotlighted the International Zero-Carbon Island Cooperation Initiative, launched by Yantai during COP29 in 2024, with the support of 32 co-initiating global stakeholders. The initiative aims to unite island regions through shared green goals, ranging from renewable energy solutions to marine science collaboration and vocational training.

Hu revealed that Yantai is now taking another bold step by proposing the world’s first international organization focused solely on zero-carbon island cooperation. This new body, headquartered in Yantai, would be open to membership from NGOs, academic institutions, research bodies, and private enterprises worldwide—including those in Barbados.

“This organization will strengthen resilience to climate disasters, ensure island energy security, and support economic and social development through low-carbon industries and technologies,” Hu explained. Over 20 institutions and enterprises have already confirmed their participation.

Extending an invitation to Barbados, Hu emphasized the shared environmental destiny of island nations and regions. “Those who share the same aspirations will not regard mountains and seas as a distance,” he said. “Despite the distance, China and Barbados share a clear sea and blue sky.”

As Barbados continues to carve out its place as a climate leader in the Caribbean, the alignment with Yantai’s zero-carbon vision may offer meaningful pathways for collaboration—both in policy and practice.

The fourth Barbados Annual Construction and Design Conference (BACDC) is scheduled to take place September 24 to 27, 2025.  This year’s conference will be held under the theme ofIntegrating Technology into Quality Construction and will also feature, for the first time, a dinner and awards ceremony.

The keynote speaker for the 2025 conference is Omar Mohamed, who is the Architectural AE/Specification Consultant, Caribbean Area for The Sherwin-Williams Company, and he will explore the topic “Accessing Innovative Coating Technology for Healthy Building Design”. 

Elvina Rollins, Technical Officer with the TVET Council, organisers of the BACDC, noted: “We are pleased to partner with The Sherwin-Williams Company again this year.  Sherwin-Williams is a company that makes innovation a major component of their business practices.  Furthermore, they are very invested in their corporate social responsibility, of which educating the design community is a major focus.”

Speaking to the impact of the BACDC, Ms. Rollins emphasised: “Last year’s conference, which was held under the theme ‘Designing and Building for a Sustainable Digital Transformation’featured the key topic ‘Innovative Building Materials’ which highlighted the University of East London’s award winning ‘Sugarcrete’ project. 

“We were therefore pleased to hear the Minister of Housing, Lands and Maintenance, Dwight Sutherland, during his remarks, applaud the University of East London on the ‘Sugarcrete’ project for its contribution to innovative, affordable, and sustainable housing materials.”

Ms. Rollins added: “Similarly, we expect this year’s conference to be just as impactful because we are seeking to share best practice information on how integrating technology can contribute to sustainable, quality construction.”

In keeping with the theme of the TVET Council’s 30th anniversary celebrations, Building Brighter Futures: 30 Years and Beyond, this year’s BACDC seeks to highlight sustainable practices through topics such as Green Infrastructure, Drone Construction Monitoring, and Historical Preservation and Adaptive Reuse in Architecture.

The itinerary for BACDC 2025, which will span four days, will include international, regional, and local presenters whose expertise covers design and construction areas. The conference programme will feature:

1. Opening Ceremony with keynote speaker Mr. Omar Mohamed of The Sherwin-Williams Company
2. Construction Open Day – September 24
3. Student’s Day – Career Showcase on September 25
4. Networking and Cocktail Reception – September 26
5. BACDC Awards Dinner – September 27.

The BACDC, which was launched in 2022, provides professionals and practitioners in the construction and design industry opportunities to update their knowledge and acquire Continuing Professional Development points, where possible. Attendees can participate in specialised education and training sessions that include workshops and seminars, led by industry experts.

These sessions cover the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in construction and design, thereby helping participants to stay ahead in this ever-evolving global industry. The BACDC also provides opportunities for career development, networking, promoting sustainability, and showcasing innovation. (PR/GIS)

Flow Barbados has once again solidified its place as the title sponsor of one of the island’s most beloved cultural events — the Flow Oistins Fish Festival, now in its 56th year. 

This marks the sixth consecutive year that the island’s leading telecommunications provider has partnered as title sponsor with the festival, underscoring a shared commitment to culture, community, and connectivity.

Toni Yarde, Senior Manager, Communications at Flow, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to preserving and enhancing the legacy of the festival.

“Flow Barbados proudly continues its longstanding partnership with one of the island’s most cherished cultural celebrations – the Flow Oistins Fish Festival. For over five decades, this festival has been more than just a showcase of Barbadian heritage; it has been a unifying force that brings together our communities, highlights the invaluable contributions of our fisherfolk, and celebrates the spirit of Oistins. Flow is honoured to play a key role in preserving and enhancing this legacy.”

Yarde also emphasised that Flow’s involvement goes deeper than sponsorship, reflecting the brand’s key pillars: Connect. Care. Commit. Flow has been supporting the festival for well over a decade.

“This year, our commitment to the festival is stronger than ever. As Barbados’ leading telecommunications provider, we are dedicated to ensuring that connectivity extends beyond technology — it is about connecting people, culture, and traditions. 

“Our sponsorship goes beyond financial support; it is an investment in the vibrant culture that makes Barbados unique. Our partnership with the Oistins Fish Festival reflects our dedication to national development,” she added.

Flow teams will be on-site again this year offering interactive experiences, exclusive promotions, and opportunities for festival-goers to sign up for service. 

The 2025 edition of the Flow Oistins Fish Festival is being staged under the theme “Catch de Culture”, and promises a vibrant 10-day celebration from Saturday, April 12 to Monday, April 21, with over 150 vendors and a packed calendar of cultural showcases, family activities, and culinary delights.

Festival Co-Chair Israel Mallett expressed gratitude to Flow and the broader community of supporters who make the event possible year after year.

“It is our pleasure to officially launch the 2025 edition of the Oistins Fish Festival — one of the most beloved and culturally rich events on the Barbadian calendar. To our title sponsor Flow Barbados, we say thank you for standing with us for the sixth consecutive year. Anytime we’ve needed support, Flow has answered the call — a testament to their unwavering commitment to this festival, the people of Oistins, and Barbados as a whole. We are deeply grateful and take this opportunity to salute you.”

This year’s programme features a mix of new events and fan favourites, including a Celebrity Cook-Off, Family Movie Night, Easter Bonnet Showdown, and the newly introduced Sip, Bead, Paint & Jazz beachfront session. The festival officially opens on Saturday, April 19, with the Rhythm & Flames Parade. While on Monday, April 21, the festival culminates with the traditional Fish Boning and Dolphin Skinning and Greasy Pole competitions. (PR)