By Dianne Roberts, Environmental & Development Specialist
Grenada makes history as the new home of PISLM, driving regional action to combat land degradation and advancing climate-resilient, sustainable development.
On November 4, 2025, the Parliament of Grenada took a landmark decision by passing the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) for Caribbean Small Island Developing States (CSIDS) Bill, 2025. This legislation gives legal effect to two key agreements: the Agreement Establishing the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) and the Headquarters Agreement between PISLM and the Government of Grenada.
Through this Bill, Grenada formally becomes the home of PISLM, an international intergovermental organization with the mandate to support implementatation of the Caribbean’s obligations under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and related regional and global frameworks on sustainable soil and land management. This move strategically positions Grenada at the centre of the Caribbean’s collective effort to protect and sustainably manage two of its most valuable and threatened natural assets: land and soil.
As I reflect on the humble beginnings of the PISLM under the visionary leadership of former Executive Director Mr. Calvin James, I am truly encouraged by the tremendous progress the institution has made. I warmly congratulate the national team led by Dr. Ronen Francis and the Regional Council, and I wish them continued success as they carry this important work forward.
This new legislation is both timely and progressive. In Grenada and across the region, land and soil degradation are accelerating at alarming rates, driven by unsustainable land use practices such as deforestation, poor agricultural practices, overgrazing, and sand mining, all compounded by extreme climatic events that intensify existing vulnerabilities and risks. Land degradation represents a loss in the capacity of land and soil to provide critical Nature Contributions to People (NCPs), including clean air, water, food, protection from hazards, and mental wellbeing. Consequently, land degradation threatens agrifood and water production systems, biodiversity, nature-dependent livelihoods, and the welfare and security of communities, making this legislative action not only urgent, but truly transformative.
For small island developing states like Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique with limited and fragile land resources, and inadequate technical and financial capacities, this Bill provides a powerful framework to accelerate action to combat land degradation, strengthen climate resilience, and promote water and food and nutrition security. It also opens new avenues for sustainable livelihoods and alternative nature-based enterprises, reducing the risk of poverty, particularly in rural areas where land and healthy soil are central to development. Moreover, the Bill reinforces Grenada’s commitment to environmental stewardship, aligning closely with national frameworks such as the National Sustainable Development Plan and Government’s Vision 75.
Having PISLM’s headquarters located in Grenada represents a national advantage and a major acheivement for the country. The presence of the organization will enhance capacities in sustainable soil and land management, create momentum for scientific research, improve knowledge sharing, and promote technology transfer. It will also open new and expand existing opportunities for collaboration among government agencies, universities, research centers, and national and regional experts – positioning Grenada as a leader in designing and implementing evidence-based policies and programmes that reflect indigenous and regional best practices and standards. Through PISLM, Grenada will be better equipped to achieve its Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets and advance commitments under key multilateral environmental agreements.
In conclusion, the notable progress of PISLM, evident in this important legislative accomplishment stands as a testament to the organization’s dedication and partnership in advancing sustainable soil and land management as a pivotal means to resilient development. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the biblical truth: “Do not despise small beginnings,” for within them lies the potential for tranformational change and positive impact.
