Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Climate Change Honourable Julian Fraser RA attended the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), held in Nice, France, from June 9 to 13, 2025. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

The global forum was held from June 9 to 13 and brought together Heads of Government, ministers, scientists, civil society, youth leaders, and private sector stakeholders to advance ocean sustainability.

The Deputy Premier delivered the official national statement on behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands during the Plenary Session, titled, “Ocean Action in the Virgin Islands.” The address spotlighted the Territory’s marine protection efforts, ocean governance initiatives, and climate adaptation strategies.

Honourable Fraser said, "The protection of our marine environment is not only about sustainability—it is about survival and generational stewardship. The Virgin Islands is taking deliberate and bold steps to protect our marine ecosystems, strengthen climate resilience, and build a sustainable blue economy”.

 In addition to the plenary presentation, the Deputy Premier participated in key sessions and dialogues, including a side event hosted by the Global Island Partnership (GLISPA), where he presented on “The Outsized Role of Conservation Trust Funds in SIDS in Accelerating SDG 14,” highlighting the work of the Trust for Virgin Islands Ecosystems.

Honourable Fraser also presented at a regional dialogue on “The Sargassum Crisis in the Caribbean,” where he advocated for regional cooperation, early warning systems, and local response capacities.

He outlined a suite of progressive initiatives currently being implemented in the Virgin Islands under the Prevention of Marine Litter in the Caribbean Sea (PROMAR) framework including ‘The We Recycle’ Programme (in partnership with Green VI).

The programme has diverted more than 8,800 tons of plastic, glass, and aluminum from harmful disposal and recycling Infrastructure Expansion, with facilities in Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Plans are underway for composting and material recovery.

The 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) was held under the theme, “Scaling Up Ocean Action Based on Science and Innovation for the Implementation of Goal 14: Stocktaking, Partnerships and Solutions.”

The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change envisions sound stewardship of our natural resources, and an established viable land and marine economic system by implementing a robust legal and policy framework that fosters sustainable best management practices.