Bradshaw outlines bold plan to make Barbados a model of climate resilience
Barbados is setting its sights on becoming a global model for climate resilience, with Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw outlining a series of ambitious national targets aimed at protecting the island from increasingly severe climate impacts.
Speaking at a regional climate workshop, Bradshaw said preparedness and resilience must remain at the forefront of national and regional strategies—even in periods of reduced storm activity.
“Even if projections suggest a below-average hurricane season, we know better than to be complacent,” she said. “Even a single event can have significant consequences.”
Among the country’s key goals is ensuring that 85 per cent of housing stock and critical infrastructure can withstand a Category 3 hurricane by 2030.
In addition, Barbados aims to restore basic living conditions within three to seven days after a major weather event—an ambitious benchmark designed to minimise disruption to lives and livelihoods.
Bradshaw also pointed to the island’s push toward 100 per cent renewable energy by 2035, supported by investments in a resilient national grid.
“Our targets are clear and ambitious,” she said, adding that these initiatives form part of the broader Barbados 2035 national development strategy.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted ongoing investments in climate-smart infrastructure, including strengthened coastal defences and upgraded emergency shelters.
She also noted progress in expanding renewable energy access, with solar photovoltaic systems being installed across public buildings and incentives provided to households.
Barbados, she said, is also enhancing its disaster readiness through improved early warning systems and community-based preparedness programmes.
“Our citizens must be informed, trained and ready to respond,” Bradshaw emphasised.
In the transportation sector, she pointed to the country’s growing electric bus fleet as a key step toward reducing emissions and promoting sustainable mobility.
Beyond national efforts, Bradshaw underscored Barbados’ leadership on the global stage—particularly in advancing discussions on loss and damage for vulnerable countries.
She referenced progress made at recent international climate negotiations, including mechanisms designed to provide timely support to small island states facing climate-related losses.
“This is Barbados transforming advocacy into action,” she said.
As the region continues to face mounting climate pressures, Bradshaw urged continued collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders.
“Preparedness must remain a constant priority,” she said, reinforcing the message that resilience is no longer optional—but essential.
