Premier and Minister of Finance, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Dr. Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, stressed the critical urgency of addressing climate change and securing vital funding for the Virgin Islands.

In a press conference held on Friday, 8th December, Premier Wheatley asserted that climate change stands as the single greatest threat to the survival and development of small islands like the Virgin Islands. He emphasized that, as small entities contributing minimally to the problem, these islands are experiencing the most severe impacts on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

“Gone are the days when there is a debate about whether climate change is real. We are now living the reality of climate change,” Premier Wheatley declared, highlighting the imminent dangers of exceeding global warming thresholds within the next decade.

Drawing attention to the tangible impacts on the Virgin Islands, Premier Wheatley outlined the potential consequences, from disappearing coral reefs and persistent sargassum landings to increased risks of vector-borne diseases and ‘runaway’ sea level rise threatening coastal communities and infrastructure. He underscored the economic toll, referencing the massive debt incurred after hurricanes like Irma and Maria.

Premier Wheatley stressed the need for adaptation measures to ensure resilience against the multifaceted impacts of climate change. However, he acknowledged the financial challenge, stating, “Adaptation is very costly, more than we can afford.”

Providing insights into recent duty travels, Premier Wheatley shared updates from the 28th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28). He highlighted the crucial role of small islands in climate negotiations, citing their historical leadership in advocating for major victories such as the creation of the Loss and Damage Fund.

Addressing the disparity faced by the Virgin Islands and other UK Overseas Territories in accessing climate funds, Premier Wheatley reported on successful engagements at COP28 with the UK delegation. He expressed satisfaction in securing an agreement for the Territories to be engaged at the start of the cycle for the UK’s negotiating strategy for future COPs.

Moreover, Premier Wheatley revealed positive developments in discussions with Rt Hon Graham Stuart, UK Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero. The UK’s openness to a dedicated Climate Change Fund for its Territories and the agreement for a formal request process were seen as significant strides.

“We have a critical window to ensure our concerns make it into the global negotiations,” Premier Wheatley emphasized, urging collective efforts to build on existing initiatives and establish a robust framework for climate action in the Virgin Islands.

As the government continues its advocacy for international climate funds and a dedicated UK Climate Change Fund, Premier Wheatley invited media collaboration to spotlight the unique challenges faced by the Territories. He emphasized the importance of building on the foundation laid at COP28 to ensure the Virgin Islands is not left behind in the fight against climate change.