June 9th 2023 marks World Accreditation Day, a global initiative established by the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) to promote the value of accreditation. This year’s theme ‘Accreditation: Supporting the Future of Global Trade’, focuses on how accreditation supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), playing a crucial role in ensuring quality, reliability, and trust in the global marketplace. 

It is not only a facilitator of trade but also a catalyst for sustainable development, as reflected in the SDGs, which provide a roadmap for building a better future. We recognize that accreditation is intricately linked to several of these goals in many ways, including helping to alleviate poverty by enabling businesses to access global markets, generate income, and create employment opportunities, thus contributing to poverty reduction.

In Barbados one of the country’s priorities is food safety and quality standards being met.  Through fostering trust in agricultural and food supply chains, accreditation promotes access to safe and nutritious food for all. Accredited medical laboratories, testing facilities, and healthcare institutions help safeguard public health by ensuring accurate diagnostics, reliable treatments, and the provision of safe healthcare services, thus supporting good health and well-being among our citizens.

As it relates to gender equality, accreditation also promotes gender equality by providing equal opportunities for female-owned businesses to participate in international trade, supporting their economic empowerment and fostering inclusive growth. An environment that drives economic growth by enhancing the competitiveness of businesses, fosters innovation, and promotes fair trade practices, that create decent work opportunities and sustainable economic development is also desired. 

Part of the economic strategy includes the development of robust and reliable infrastructure, encouraging investment, innovation, and technological advancements, which are all essential for inclusive and sustainable industrialization. It is recognized that in order to reduce inequalities in our business environment, we have to ensure that products, services, and systems meet the same quality standards, regardless of geographical location, thus creating a level playing field for businesses.

Surrounded by the ocean, there are many unexploited possibilities for the sustainable utilization of our marine environment, supported by ensuring that accredited testing and monitoring bodies provide accurate assessments of water quality and environmental impact. Accreditation also fosters collaboration and partnerships among governments, businesses, and other stakeholders.

On this World Accreditation Day, let us recognize the profound impact and invaluable role of accreditation in supporting the SDGs. Together, we can leverage accreditation as a powerful tool to promote economic growth, social well-being, and environmental sustainability. 

I commend the efforts of the board of directors, management and staff of the Barbados National Standards Institution (BNSI) and all stakeholders involved in promoting accreditation. Let us continue working collaboratively to advance the goals of sustainable development, ensuring a prosperous and inclusive future for Barbados and the global community.

Join me in celebration of World Accreditation Day, with a shared commitment to building a sustainable and equitable world and transforming our lovely island nation. (PR/GIS)