Walter Roban, the Minister of Home Affairs, has met environmental ministers from Overseas Territories to discuss critical environmental matters.

The sixth UK Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies Environmental Ministers’ Council was held online recently with 31 ministers or equivalents involved, including Mr Roban.

A government spokesman said a range of topics were discussed, including draft requests for an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on the obligations of states with respect to climate change.

The ministers also discussed the goal set by Britain of putting 30 per cent of its waters, and those of many of its territories, under protection by 2030.

The spokesman added: “Presentations were also given around ‘Tackling Invasive Non-Native Species in UK OTs and Crown Dependencies’, followed by discussions.

“During the meeting, minister Roban spoke about the essential need for territories to have an enforceable robust planning and environmental regulatory framework.

“Participants discussed having a clear environmental, social and governance policy that can help balance ecological protection and sustainable development while supporting the need to attract local and international investments in jobs while creating opportunity, climate action and inward investment to support the energy transition.”

Mr Roban said he was happy to represent the island at the meeting and discuss matters that are of importance to all the territories.

“We discussed issues facing UK Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies and where we can learn from each other's experiences,” he added.

“From these meetings, I hope we continually improve and better position ourselves to progress initiatives that protect our environment."