Environmental Festival a Hit

To culminate the activities of Barbados’ Environment Month, the two-day Small Island Future Fest (SIFF) was executed by the BlueGreen Initiative and the Future Centre Trust, in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment and National Beautification and UN Development Programme (UNDP) GEF Small Grants Programme.

This jam packed weekend event attracted locals and visitors to experience a dynamic collaboration, where green meets blue focused on promoting sustainable development challenges, issues and solutions. Exhibitors represented current and past grantees of the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programmes, blue and green businesses and other civil society groups of Barbados. The UN Village featured an interactive display of the work various UN agencies are spearheading surrounding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In partnership with UWI TV, the SIFF also featured a BlueGreen Summit - youth and expert editions - where audiences were treated to inspiring innovative talks about the future of the environment of Barbados.

SIFF showcased a wide range of activities, from eco-attractions to exhibitions in film, fashion and fitness; competitions, delicious food, and a kid’s zone. Notably the Lionfish Derby attraction was a big hit and it was followed by a delectable Lionfish Cook Off! There were fun activities for all ages founded on sustainable living practices. Saturday evening the SIFF closed with a phenomenal concert featuring performances by Ch’An, Mikey, Damian Marvay, Biggie Irie, and Altered Fifth; and an environmentally friendly fireworks display.

The Small Island Future Fest is the first of its kind and organisers hope the event continues to grow for years to come.