The need for greater awareness of the impact of natural hazards on national development, and a strategic approach to dealing with these were underscored at a workshop staged by the Geological Society of Jamaica (GSJ) at the Jamaica Conference Centre recently.

The workshop was part of the GSJ's activities in observance of Geo-Sciences for Development Week, which started on November 26 under the theme: 'Geo-Hazards - Planning, Management and Insurance.' It brought together stakeholders for discussions on the implications of geo-hazards for Jamaica.

Energy, Mining and Telecommunications Minister, Clive Mullings, noted that the theme was consistent with the government's commitment to sensitising the nation on the potential hazards associated with improper environmental practices.

"Global warming is a real threat to human existence, and we need to make every effort to equip ourselves with the knowledge to make informed decisions, particularly at the national leadership level," Minister Mullings underscored.