Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Sustainable Development, Hon. Dr. Kishore Shallow, has called for greater use of technology and digital innovation to strengthen resilience and sustainable development across the Eastern Caribbean.
Dr. Shallow made the appeal during the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Council of Ministers: Environmental Sustainability Meeting, held under the theme “The OECS Collective Resolve: Innovative Pathways in a High-Risk Global Landscape.”
The meeting brought together ministers and regional leaders from across the OECS to discuss collaborative approaches to environmental sustainability, resilience-building and sustainable development amid growing climate and economic challenges.
During a ministerial panel focused on innovative technologies, Dr. Shallow highlighted the critical role digital transformation can play in strengthening climate resilience, improving decision-making and advancing sustainable tourism throughout the region.
Drawing on the OECS Sustainable Tourism Policy 2025–2035, the minister outlined five strategic priorities that he said are essential to sustainable development across multiple sectors.
These include data-driven decision-making, smart and sustainable destination management, climate resilience and disaster preparedness, digital inclusion and human capacity development, and stronger regional integration through shared platforms.
According to Dr. Shallow, innovation and digital transformation are no longer optional for small island states but have become critical tools for survival and competitiveness in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
“The OECS may not be able to compete on the basis of our size, but if we are technologically agile and strategically integrated, we can become one of the most resilient and sustainable regions in the world,” he stated.
The minister also stressed the need for harmonised regional data systems and tourism intelligence platforms supported by environmental indicators, noting that fragmented and outdated systems continue to hinder progress across the region.
He pointed to several practical applications of technology, including smart destination systems for water management and beach monitoring, as well as integrated early warning systems to improve disaster preparedness and response.
Dr. Shallow further cautioned that digital transformation must benefit all citizens and not deepen existing inequalities. He emphasised the importance of building local capacity in areas such as data analytics, digital literacy and technological innovation.
The wider discussions at the meeting focused heavily on strengthening regional cooperation and resilience.
OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules urged member states to move beyond siloed approaches and embrace stronger inter-sectoral collaboration, while incoming OECS Chair Hon. Cosier Frederick of Dominica reminded delegates that the region’s future depends on the environmental decisions made today.
Regional economist Dr. Hyginus “Gene” Leon also highlighted the importance of properly valuing the Caribbean’s natural assets and integrating natural capital into national development planning.
Officials said the meeting reinforced the need for innovative, interconnected and technology-enabled solutions as the OECS continues its efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable future.