Prime Minister Gaston Browne used his Independence Day address to link local environmental action with Antigua and Barbuda’s growing international leadership on climate change, pledging a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for the nation.
Browne said the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) has been mandated to carry out an island-wide clean-up campaign to remove derelict vehicles, abandoned homes, and bulk waste from communities. The initiative aims to restore the country’s appearance and strengthen civic pride.
“Our vision is not only for a wealthy nation, but for a clean and beautiful one,” Browne said. “Progress cannot coexist with neglect, disrespect, and abuse of the environment.”
He urged residents, businesses, and visitors to share responsibility for keeping Antigua and Barbuda clean, warning that illegal dumping will be prosecuted as part of a new era of environmental enforcement.
“This task cannot be left to government alone,” Browne said. “Every citizen, every resident, every visitor must take responsibility for their surroundings.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks also connected local environmental stewardship to the country’s global climate advocacy, emphasizing Antigua and Barbuda’s continued leadership in international forums.
Browne noted that the twin-island state has emerged as a respected voice in global debates on climate change, debt reform, and sustainable development, hosting major international events such as the UN SIDS4 Conference in 2024, the OAS General Assembly in 2025, and the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2026.
He said Antigua and Barbuda’s achievements—including ranking No. 1 in the Caribbean on the UN Human Development Index—prove that small island states can be models of environmental and economic progress.
“Cleanliness is godliness; it’s patriotism in action and discipline made visible,” Browne said. “Let’s increase our ambition and resolve that Antigua and Barbuda will not only be prosperous, but pristine — the cleanest small island state in the world.”
