GrenadaGrows, a dynamic startup and public-private partnership with the Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority (GSWMA), was honoured as one of the top 4 finalists in the Global Climate Innovator Challenge at the Global Climate Innovation Coalition’s (GCIC) 2nd Annual Summit.
The prestigious event, held on 6 September at the Delegates Dining Room in the United Nations (UN) Headquarters under the theme “Promoting Global Innovation and Collaboration for Sustainable Prosperity of Humanity and All Life,” highlighted innovative solutions to combat climate change and brought together global climate leaders, permanent representatives, and key stakeholders, including Grenada’s Ambassador to the UN Ambassador Che Phillip.
Out of over 500 applications from 50+ countries, GrenadaGrows emerged as one of 4 finalists in the category for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production [Reduce, Reuse, Recycle; Resource Efficiency] and was awarded the prestigious title of Global Climate Innovator Champion, making it the only participant from the West Indies.
“Congratulations on being selected as a finalist!” said Iris Song, president of GCIC. “Your innovative vision for creating a circular economy in Grenada through sustainable waste management is truly inspiring. By turning fish, chicken waste, and biomass into organic soil enhancers, you’re addressing crucial challenges such as reducing the island’s reliance on synthetic fertilisers and food imports.”
Rob Steir, co-founder of GrenadaGrows, represented the company at the summit, while cofounder and CEO Dr Judlyn Telesford-Checkley, a Grenadian environmental scientist, leads the team with over 20 years of expertise in sustainable development and waste management. Dr Telesford-Checkley, who holds a PhD in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, has contributed extensively to Grenada’s National Ecosystem Assessment, NDC investment planning, and various climate resilience projects. Her leadership is a testament to her deep commitment to pioneering sustainable solutions for island nations.
Lyndon Robertson, General Manager of the GSWMA, expressed immense pride in the GrenadaGrows partnership, stating: “GrenadaGrows marks a major leap forward in waste management. By transforming organic waste into valuable resources, we address not only waste reduction but also create economic opportunities for local communities. The recognition at the GCIC Summit underscores the groundbreaking potential of this project, and we are thrilled to support GrenadaGrows in leading the charge toward sustainable waste management.”
Hon. Kerryne James, Grenada’s Minister of Climate Resilience, the Environment, and Renewable Energy, lauded GrenadaGrows for its achievement: “We are incredibly proud of GrenadaGrows for representing our nation on a global platform. Their innovative approach to waste management aligns perfectly with our national goals for sustainability and resilience. This international recognition highlights the importance of investing in homegrown solutions that tackle the unique challenges we face as an island nation.”
About GrenadaGrows: GrenadaGrows is set to transform organic waste management in Grenada by converting waste into high-quality soil products, thereby reducing landfill use, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting local farmers, gardeners, and communities. The company’s circular business model aims to foster environmental sustainability and drive economic growth, offering a pathway for small island nations to adapt and thrive in the face of climate change.
About the GCIC and the Summit:
The Global Climate Innovation Coalition (GCIC) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing climate action through innovation. The summit brought together experts, governments, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to discuss key areas like clean energy, resilient infrastructure, sustainable cities, and circular economy practices, all aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The event culminated with the Ambassadors’ Gala, celebrating groundbreaking contributions to climate innovation and promoting multilateral cooperation to further the SDGs.
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