It is stated in the National Environmental Education Action Plan for Sustainable Development, that the production of this document is guided by a vision of a future for Jamaica in which social, economic and environmental components of sustainability are harmonized. The key element in bringing this vision to reality is through education.

I wish to congratulate the National Environmental Education Committee (NEEC) which was formed in 1993 by the Natural Resources Conservation Authority to focus specifically on environmental education, for their enthusiasm and commitment in producing the National Environmental Education Action Plan for Sustainable Development. I envisage that the same enthusiasm will evolve from every citizen and organization, as they become more environmentally responsive in every community.

It cannot be denied that protecting the environment is a complex issue but as we seek to stimulate economic regrowth, we are faced with the challenge of stimulating the minds of our people to create an interest in exploring solutions to environmental issues.