Jamaica needs more climate-resilient homes

Chief Technical Director, Housing, Urban Renewal and Projects, Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, Authrine Scarlett, has called for the building of more climate-resilient houses that can withstand the passage of hurricanes or other natural disasters.

Addressing the World Habitat Day Exposition 2026 at the Summit Kingston on Monday, Scarlett said the experience with Hurricane Melissa last October underscores the importance of ensuring that housing solutions are designed with climate resilience in mind.

“As we support affected households and communities in their recovery, therefore, we must remain focused on building homes that can better withstand future impacts and protect the lives and livelihoods of those who occupy them,” Scarlett said.