Eliminating Hazardous Chemicals from Supply Chains Integrated Programme in Trinidad and Tobago

The Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, Dr. The Honourable Kennedy Swaratsingh, emphasized the importance of aligning cultural pride with environmental responsibility: “Carnival is more than a celebration; it is a symbol of our identity and a major economic engine. This project transforms our beloved tradition into a global model for sustainability, innovation, and responsible celebration. It supports local designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs, particularly women and youth, while promoting circular business models and greener practices.”

Mr. Anand Maraj, Director (Ag.) of BCRC-Caribbean, highlighted the project’s potential to reshape the region’s creative economy, through the phasing out of hazardous chemicals: “This initiative sets the stage for a reimagined future, where Carnival embraces both its creative legacy and its environmental responsibility. We aim to phase out hazardous chemicals, foster biodegradable materials, and enable the growth of green jobs and sustainable enterprise.”  

Representing the GEF, Mr. Anil Sookdeo, Chemicals and Waste Coordinator, shared his pride in Trinidad and Tobago’s leadership in the creation of a sustainable Carnival; “We are launching a transformative project that asks a powerful question: what if our greatest cultural expression could also lead the way in sustainability? Trinidad and Tobago brings something unique to the global stage, Carnival. Through this initiative, we will repurpose 10,000 costumes, support sustainable materials, and unlock new value chains for local artisans and youth-led businesses.”   

UNEP’s Mr. Ramon Jimenez underscored the global relevance of the initiative: “This project arrives at a critical moment, addressing the intersection of health, climate, and pollution. It offers scalable models for other Small Island Developing States and GEF-eligible countries. We are proud to support Trinidad and Tobago in becoming a regional leader in tackling chemical pollution.”  

 As the GEF Operational Focal Point and Competent Authority under the Basel Convention, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable development: “This initiative reimagines sustainability in our creative ecosystem—advancing safer materials, greener manufacturing, and responsible waste management. Trinidad and Tobago is poised to lead environmental innovation with ripple effects across the Caribbean and beyond.”