- Email [email protected]
- Contact (868) 625-5030
Photo (L-R) Dr Keith Nurse, President of COSTAATT, Sasha Jattansingh, Loss and Damage Expert from Climate Analytics and Ryan Bachoo, Senior Journalist at CNC3
COSTAATT Explores Urgent Climate Challenges at Innovation Café Series
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – January 29, 2025: COSTAATT (College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago) hosted the fourth edition of its Innovation Café Series, to discuss the implications of climate change for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Held at COSTAATT’s City Campus, the event brought together regional and international experts to discuss critical climate-related challenges, opportunities, and the road ahead following COP29 (Conference of the Parties).
The panel, titled “Climate Action and SIDS: Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities of COP,” featured key speakers Dr. Courtney Lindsay, Senior Research Officer at ODI Global; Sasha Jattansingh, Loss and Damage Expert from Climate Analytics; Dr. Keith Nurse, President of COSTAATT; and moderator Ryan Bachoo, Senior Journalist at CNC3. Their collective insights provided a well-rounded discussion on how Caribbean nations can tackle climate change effectively.
Speakers emphasised that climate change is no longer a looming threat but a present and urgent reality. From the destruction of coastal communities to food security challenges, the Caribbean is experiencing first-hand the damaging effects of climate shifts. The dialogue also centred on climate finance, adaptation and the role of governance in fostering resilience. The need for stronger commitments from global powers in financially supporting SIDS was a recurring theme.
Panelists also explored innovative agricultural methods to bolster food security in light of changing environmental conditions. With unpredictable weather patterns and rising temperatures impacting traditional farming, experts called for investment in sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices.
They stressed that while international agreements and conferences such as COP29 play a critical role in shaping climate policies, home-grown action is just as important. Governments, private sector leaders, and civil society organisations must collaborate to implement practical solutions that address climate change’s immediate effects in the region.
Dr. Keith Nurse reaffirmed COSTAATT’s role in facilitating critical dialogues and knowledge-sharing opportunities. “At COSTAATT, we recognise the urgency of climate action and are committed to providing our students and communities with the tools and understanding to drive change,” he said.
The Innovation Café Series continues to establish itself as an essential forum for addressing regional challenges proposing actionable solutions. The next installment in the series will take place on the February 26th.
About the Innovation Café Series
COSTAATT’s monthly Innovation Café Series tackles critical Caribbean issues, fostering dialogue and collaborative solutions. This forum brings together academia, industry, and policymakers to drive innovation and positive change.
About COSTAATT
Established in 2000, the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT) is a leading tertiary institution dedicated to national and regional development through innovative education and applied research.
For more information about the Innovation Café Series or other COSTAATT initiatives, please contact: Taslim Mark, Marketing and Public Relations Officer Email: [email protected] Phone: (868) 625-5030 ext 6202
