Pacific island nation unveils blockchain-based savings bond ‘Palau Invest’ prototype
The government of the world’s smallest countries has showcased a prototype of a blockchain-based savings bond system. The government of Palau, an Asia-Pacific island nation with a population of just 18,000 people, has unveiled the prototype of a blockchain-based savings bond system to be named ‘Palau Invest’.
France to cut prices in Martinique over cost of living unrest
After more than six weeks of protests over the high cost of living on the French Caribbean island of Martinique, the local prefecture has signed a deal to cut soaring food prices by an average of 20% for 6,000 key, imported products.
Food costs are about 40% more in Martinique than in mainland France. The Rally for the Protection of Afro-Caribbean Peoples and Resources (RPPRAC) says the agreement should cover 40,000 products, not just 6,000.
New tourism restrictions to protect Bangladesh’s unique wetlands and coral-rich island
In a bid to protect biodiversity hotspots in the country, Bangladesh plans to restrict tourism and introduce environment-friendly guidelines and directions for tourists visiting the Ecologically Critical Areas (ECAs).
The coral reef-rich Saint Martin’s Island and one of the largest haors — a type of wetland ecosystem — in the country, Tanguar Haor, known to be a habitat for breeding fish and waterfowls, will soon see the first restrictions on tourism.
In the lead-up to COP29, our team is providing you with insightful information through the Island Voices platform. During the upcoming weeks, we are organizing virtual sessions to highlight key island-related topics, and engage with experts on pressing climate challenges. These sessions will offer a unique opportunity to hear from island leaders, policymakers, NGO professional and innovators on how their communities are preparing for COP, what they hope to achieve, and the role island stakeholders will play in global climate negotiations. The first virtual session will take place next Thursday:
UNFCCC COPs: How can SIDS civil society receive official accreditation?
Date: Thursday, 31 October
Time: 09:00 AM New York, 13:00 PM London, 00:00 AM Sydney (next day)
As key stakeholders in global climate discussions, particularly the COP convenings, it is essential that SIDS, which face disproportionate impacts of climate change, have strong representation. However, navigating the complex accreditation process for COP can be challenging. This session will explore the steps involved in obtaining NGO accreditation and discuss effective strategies to prepare for and actively participate in COP events, empowering NGOs to amplify their voices in future climate negotiations. You will receive more information in the upcoming days.
