As Jamaicans brace for another election season, civil society organizations are calling on political leaders to demonstrate true leadership by making the environment a central part of their vision for the country.

In a joint statement, The Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) said the group notes with concern the promises of economic growth and infrastructure projects, while environmental issues remain sidelined.

It added that communities across Jamaica are grappling with pollution, illegal sand mining, open burning, inadequate waste collection and inadequate development.

According to JET, it receives frequent complaints from individuals and communities who have often already contacted their elected representatives, local authorities and regulatory agencies, with little or no response.

It said speeches by leaders sometimes acknowledge that Jamaica is facing a triple planetary crisis—climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

JET argues, however, that environmental monitoring is weak and enforcement of environmental laws is inconsistent, especially when violations are committed by powerful entities.

JET is calling for these issues to be addressed urgently.