“I’m passionate about protecting our environment and committed to implementing plans and initiatives that encourage the growth and development of our economy and green initiatives,” said Minister of Home Affairs Walter Roban at the recent Youth Climate Summit held at B.U.E.I.

A Government spokesperson said, “Now in its second year, the summit is a weeklong event held in November and open to students aged 13 to 22. It allows participants to hear from and speak with local and global experts, leaders, and activists in environmental conservation, sustainability, and climate justice.”

Minister Roban gave opening remarks and shared the Government’s plans to protect Bermuda’s environment with our youth, explaining, “As the future leaders of Bermuda, it is vital that you are knowledgeable and have a say in the path we choose. And so I wish to share with you our plans over the next twelve months.

“Reducing single-use plastics in Bermuda remains a priority, and the Government continues consulting with the general public, importers, retailers and grocers, the hospitality sector and groups that have been advocating for the elimination of single-use plastics.

“During these consultations, the Government of Bermuda Citizens Forum online page received the third-highest public response regarding ideas generated and the fifth-highest number of participants.

“From the feedback received, a large majority, some three-quarters of the respondents, support the policy to regulate single-use plastics in Bermuda.

“And so, using a phased approach, the Government will introduce a Bill to reduce single-use plastics beginning in the coming months.

“While the aim is to improve the environment and human health, we are aware of the need to avoid any adverse economic effects by:

• Ensuring the phase-out periods are realistic;
• Clearly communicating the requirements;
• Making allowances for some single-use plastic items that do not currently have alternatives; and,
• Allowing exemptions for medical and other uses.

Read more here: https://bernews.com/2022/11/minster-roban-shares-plans-on-green-initiatives/