Green Economy
© UNESCO / Jacob Bock
(North-east Tobago UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Stock Footage Database)
What is Green Economy?
A green economy is defined as low carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive. In a green economy, growth in employment and income are driven by public and private investment into such economic activities, infrastructure and assets that allow reduced carbon emissions and pollution, enhanced energy and resource efficiency, and prevention of the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services.
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Green economy businesses follow the triple bottom-line approach which measures a business’s success in three key areas: profit, people, and the planet.
High Level Goal
All economic activities in the North-east Tobago UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Reserve result in improved human well-being, economic growth, social equity and regenerated ecosystems and biodiversity.
Current Situation
Unfortunately, there are almost no examples of green economic activities in North-east Tobago (with the exception of very few tourism and agricultural businesses). Nevertheless, there is significant potential for greening existing operations and establishing new green business ventures.
Priority Needs
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The Tobago House of Assembly is a role model for green/triple bottom-line operations.
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Private and public sectors can successfully undertake green economic activities.
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Green economic activities are demonstrably creating wealth, welfare, and regenerating ecosystem health and services.
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Consumers are aware of and value the benefits of green products and services.
Strategies
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Advocacy for and incentivising triple bottom line operations of the Tobago House of Assembly.
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Building the capacity of the private and public sectors for triple-bottom-line operations.
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Supporting green entrepreneurs and communicating success stories.
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Implementation of a green economy KAP (Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice) study and a resulting consumer communication programme.
Further Information: