The deadline for the application and nomination process for the Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund Board of Trustees has been extended to May 16.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour Mr. Smith-Berkeley is encouraging persons to apply or nominate someone as the Trust Fund is a critical mechanism to ensure that the Virgin Islands can survive and prosper in the face of climate change.  

The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund is an independent body to raise, manage and administer funds to assist the Territory in adapting to the diverse impacts of climate change and reduce carbon emissions, by increasing energy efficiency and integrating alternative energies. The Trust Fund will support actions by the Government of the Virgin Islands, the private sector and civil society.

Public information sessions about the board will begin on Thursday, April 28, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Botanic Gardens; Tuesday, May 3, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Central Administration Complex Breezeway; and on Thursday, May 12, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Botanic Gardens. 

The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund Board will comprise a total of nine persons, including six representatives for which applications or nominations are now sought.

 These include a private sector representative of the tourism industry, financial services sector and any other sector that may contribute to the Fund (such as the energy and development  sectors); a representative from a resident academic or research organisation and a non-governmental organisation or community-based organisation; and a resident possessing relevant knowledge, expertise or experience.

Belongers or Non-Belongers may apply or be nominated and all applications must be submitted to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour. A complete application must include a signed application/nomination form, three references, a curriculum vitae, a recent police report, and proof of belonger status (if applicable). Additionally, the nomination or a letter of support from a registered organisation in the sector to be represented must be presented upon request.

The Virgin Islands became the first Caribbean territory to pass legislation establishing a trust fund specifically addressing climate change issues. The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund Act came into force on January 1, and work has commenced to operationalise the Trust which includes the establishment of its first Board.

Further information about the Climate Change Trust Fund, the Board, and the application/nomination process including the official advertisement and application/nomination forms is available at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and at: www.bvi.gov.vg/climatechange.