WHAT distinguishes developed nations from our own in terms of sustainability is the fundamental context within which they operate. Developed countries have a clear and integrated commitment to sustainability as an intrinsic part of their societal fabric.

Whenever I visit developed nations, I can’t help but reflect on the beauty of Trinidad and Tobago and feel a profound sadness about our limited focus on sustainability. In developed countries, sustainability initiatives are conspicuous, ranging from immaculate streets to responsible waste management and eco-friendly practices. Without transformative changes, our islands’ natural beauty will continue to wane.

One of the most evident indicators of sustainability in developed nations is the cleanliness of their streets and public spaces. The absence of litter and debris reflects not only a dedication to maintaining a clean and healthy environment but also the effectiveness of education systems in raising awareness about the perils of poor hygiene. The simple presence of strategically located garbage and recycling bins that are routinely emptied encourages citizens to dispose of waste responsibly.

In stark contrast, many parts of our country lack recycling bins, and the importance of recycling is frequently underestimated or even dismissed as an unnecessary burden. To compound matters, our largest supermarket chain recently terminated plastic bottle collection sites in their stores.

Another stark contrast in sustainability is the use of plastic bags. In developed nations, single-use plastic bags are a rare sight, while our nation grapples with excessive plastic bag usage, which not only contaminates the environment but also poses grave threats to wildlife and marine ecosystems. It is high time we acknowledge the dire consequences of such practices and take action to reduce our reliance on disposable plastics.

The gap between our nation and the developed world in terms of sustainability is a cause for concern, necessitating immediate action. Achievable goals such as clean streets, responsible waste management, and reduced plastic use lie before us. The key lies in adopting a clear sense of purpose and understanding the consequences of our actions. Until our leadership wholeheartedly commits to making sustainability accessible and transparent, we will continue to confront challenges where rules are flouted, and substantive progress remains elusive.

The time has come for a comprehensive reset: a journey toward a more sustainable and responsible future for our beloved nation. However, a transformative shift will not materialise under what can only be described as ‘Ketchup and Mustard leadership.’

Dennise Demming Diego Martin