KINGSTON, Jamaica— Opposition Spokesperson on Environment and Ecological Heritage, Senator Sophia Frazer Binns, is calling for more robust discussions and creative solutions to address the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in relation to insurance for buildings.

Addressing the University of Technology (UTech) Jamaica International Climate Change Conference on Friday, Frazer Binns highlighted the growing risks to both the built and natural environment, noting that rising sea levels, intensified hurricanes, and unpredictable weather patterns are already affecting insurance across the Caribbean.

In her presentation, Senator Frazer Binns stressed that insurance must not only be seen as a response to climate change but also as a way to build climate resilience. To this extent, she advocated for an expansion of parametric insurance, which triggers automatic payouts based on specific climate conditions, such as rainfall thresholds. This innovative approach could provide affordable insurance for ordinary Jamaicans and not be limited to States or country parties.

Senator Frazer Binns also advocated for the introduction of climate resilience discounts in insurance policies. Whereby property owners who invest in protective measures, such as hurricane straps or shutters, could enjoy insurance discounts. This is one way of building resilience in this climate-changed environment.

The Senator called for a multi-stakeholder approach to tackling these challenges, urging collaboration between the government, civil society, and the private sector.

“As policymakers and leaders, we have a duty to make climate change a bread-and-butter issue for every Jamaican,” she stated. “Only through collective action can we build a more resilient future for our communities, our country, and our economy.”

As Jamaica continues to face the multi-hazard impacts of climate change, Senator Frazer Binns reiterated the importance of coming together to create long-term solutions and secure a sustainable future for all.