While none of his creations have been built yet, Sean Wright, a masters student at the University of Technology (UTech), is inspired by sustainable development and aims to build more 'green buildings' in Jamaica.
Wright, a student at the Caribbean School of Architecture, unveiled one of his designs at the Green Expo Media Launch at the Knutsford Court Hotel on Wednesday. The house that is said to be environmentally-friendly, "saves on time, is quickly erected and is labour intensive". Additionally, there is a water-catchment area and solar water heaters, which will improve self-sufficiency and energy conservation.
He says his inspiration comes from his love for the environment. "I'm basically trying to respond to the environment to create more structures that are self-sufficient," Wright told The Gleaner.
The Green Expo is the brainchild of Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust (JCDT/Green Jamaica). It was first held in 1996 and has been held every two years since, except in 2004 when there was a break. This year, it is being held under the banner, 'Let's Take Good Care of Jamaica'.
Minister of Mining and Energy, James Robertson, in his first official speech since taking office, explained that he had turned down several invitations but could not do so for the launch of Green Expo. "I have turned down many invitations in the last four weeks and I really wanted to turn yours down also," said Robertson, as the room erupted in laughter
On a more serious note, Robertson said there were some issues with the country's energy policy. "Jamaica's energy policy requires some work. The Cabinet and the prime minister have given me six weeks to pull to together the different areas of the policy," he told his audience.
Environmental responsibilities
He added that the country needs to improve its environmental responsibilities to avoid the consequences. "If Jamaica is not seen as a green country our tourism product will suffer, so we cannot develop Jamaica unless it is along green lines." However, Robertson admitted that much has not been contributed to the Expo but explained why: "We are ashamed to say we have not been as supportive as we should have but we genuinely do not have the funding."
Several sponsors are on board for Green Expo, which will run from June 5 to 7 during World Environmental Awareness Week. Executive Director, for JCDT, Susan Otuokon, said: "All proceeds from Green Expo assist the JCDT/Green Jamaica, which is a registered charity, with our conservation and sustainable development programmes in and around the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park."