The Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded Programme, Implementing Sustainable Low and Non-Chemical Development in Small Island Developing States (ISLANDS), supports efforts to strengthen the environmentally sound management of chemicals and waste.
The BCRC-Caribbean serves as the executing agency for the Caribbean projects, working with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) as implementing agencies.
The Project Steering Committee (PSC) provides oversight of project implementation, bringing partners together to review progress, discuss challenges and guide upcoming activities, workplans and expenditure.
BCRC-Caribbean convened the 5th Annual PSC Meeting for the GEF ISLANDS 10279, 10472 and 10258 projects from 21–23 October 2026 at the Comfort Inn & Suites, Scarborough, Tobago, with virtual participation.
The three-day meeting brought regional and international partners together to assess achievements, discuss implementation priorities and consider how project benefits could be sustained beyond completion.
Programme
GEF ISLANDS Caribbean
Projects
10279 · 10472 · 10258
Venue
Comfort Inn & Suites, Tobago
Opening session
Welcome Remarks
Partner contributions
Opening Remarks
Opening session
Featured Remarks
Day 01
Taking Stock of Progress
The first day focused on GEF 10279 and 10472, beginning with a recap of the Ad Hoc PSC Meeting held in April 2026 and a presentation of key accomplishments.
BCRC-Caribbean officers presented implementation updates across the projects’ components. Questions and discussions provided opportunities for countries and implementing agencies to share feedback and consider the work ahead.
Parties also reviewed expenditure, upcoming workplans and financial forecasts, connecting implementation progress with future activities and resource requirements.
Day 02
Reviewing Findings and Planning Ahead
Mr. Alfredo Rihm presented the GEF 10258 mid-term review, including key findings and recommendations. The session provided a basis for examining implementation experience and considering areas for improvement.
BCRC-Caribbean officers presented updates on Components 1, 2 and 5, while the IDB provided updates on Components 3 and 4. Parties also discussed expenditure, budgets, upcoming activities and next steps.
Day 03
Sustaining Progress beyond Project Completion
The final day focused on the longer-term continuation of the work.
Mr. Anand Maraj presented on project sustainability and the exit strategy, outlining a phased approach to project closure. The presentation addressed the importance of planning beyond project timelines so that knowledge, tools and systems could continue to support sound chemicals and waste management.
The final day’s programme also included communications and knowledge management, monitoring and evaluation, and future funding opportunities.
Closing remarks were delivered by representatives of FAO, UNEP and GEF, alongside PSC Chair Ms. Keima Gardiner and Mr. Anand Maraj of BCRC-Caribbean.
Looking ahead
Supporting Lasting Benefits for the Caribbean
The fifth annual PSC Meeting provided a forum for partners to examine progress, share implementation experience and discuss priorities for continued delivery.
This oversight and cooperation help guide work aimed at reducing chemical and waste risks, protecting ecosystems and supporting healthier Caribbean communities. Planning for sustainability also helps maintain the value of project investments by supporting the continued use of knowledge, tools and systems beyond project completion.
Shared commitment. Continued cooperation.
The Tide Has to Turn.
BCRC-Caribbean
Basel Convention Regional Centre for Training and Technology Transfer for the Caribbean