Antigua and Barbuda’s ability to prepare for, and respond to, oil spills has received a boost with a workshop held in Saint John's (21-24 July). The event brought together government officials and key industry stakeholders from across the country and focused on reviewing and updating Antigua and Barbuda’s National Oil Spill contingency plan (NOSCP).
Participants identified the roles, responsibilities and requirements to effectively manage and mitigate oil spill incidents within the country's maritime and coastal zones. Emphasis was placed on the importance of efficient communication and cooperation among relevant agencies.
Sessions covered review of the existing NOSCP and ensuring its effectiveness in view of the introduction of alternative fuels in ships' propulsion; oil and chemical spill prevention; emergency response strategies; and the importance of a cohesive national approach to environmental protection. To support the capacity analysis, participants were introduced to the RETOS tool, which helps assess national preparedness levels, and engaged in a number of table-top exercises to practice managing potential environmental disasters.
The workshop is expected to strengthen coordination efforts and enhance the NOSCP, ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda is better prepared to protect its marine and coastal environments from potential oil spill incidents.
The workshop was organized through IMO's Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP).