Pesticides Toxic Chemicals Board

National Capacity Building Workshop on the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm & Minamata Conventions — Antigua and Barbuda

On 28-29 May 2026, the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB) participated in a national capacity-building workshop on the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm and Minamata Conventions, in Antigua and Barbuda.

The workshop was organized by the Department of Analytical Services in collaboration with the BCRC-Caribbean and brought together stakeholders from varied sectors including environment, legal affairs, agriculture, customs and excise, foreign affairs and the private sector, all build their understanding of the Conventions and better contribute to the implementation these Multilateral Environmental Agreements.

The PTCCB is committed to enhancing our ability to protect human health and the environment through capacity building and sustainable partnerships.

Protect our oceans, protect our future.

Healthy oceans, thriving planet. Let’s keep them clean.

🌎🐬🌊

Development of an Effect-Cause-Action (ECA-G) Tool for Highly Hazardous Pesticide Management in Antigua and Barbuda

The Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB) participated in a national training workshop entitled, “Development of an Effect-Cause-Action (ECA-G) Tool for Highly Hazardous Pesticide Management in Antigua and Barbuda.”

The workshop was hosted by the Basel Convention Regional Centre for Training and Technology Transfer for the Caribbean (BCRC-Caribbean) and forms part of the GEF ISLANDS 10279 Project, which focuses on strengthening the implementation of chemicals and waste Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) throughout the Caribbean region.

The Registrar of Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals, Mr. Jonah Ormond, and the Deputy Registrar of Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals, Ms. Petranella Estreada, participated in the workshop and had the opportunity to enhance their capacity in identifying and managing Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs). The training also focused on assessing the impacts of HHPs on human health, conducting economic impact assessments, undertaking environmental risk analyses, and developing mitigation strategies aimed at reducing the risks associated with hazardous pesticide use throughout the Caribbean.

The PTCCB remains committed to strengthening its capacity to protect human health and the environment through continuous capacity building, the promotion of chemical safety, and the development of sustainable partnerships.

Protect nature. Protect life. 🌿🌎

Today we celebrate the International Day for Biological Diversity and the importance of preserving the ecosystems and wildlife that sustain our planet for future generations.

🦟 Day 3 of Mosquito Awareness Week

The students of St. Peters Academy participated in an engaging and educational session focused on the dangers posed by mosquitoes and practical ways to help reduce mosquito populations within our communities.

The Registrar of the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board also spoke with students about the harmful effects associated with the use of mosquito coils in mosquito control.

The public is reminded that mosquito coils are not registered for use in Antigua and Barbuda.

Together, we can promote safer and healthier mosquito control practices. 🌿

🦟 Observing Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2026

The Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB), in collaboration with the Central Board of Health (CBH), continues its public education outreach across Antigua and Barbuda.

This week, Grade One students at the Foundation Mixed School participated in interactive discussions on mosquito awareness, prevention, environmental responsibility, and the health risks associated with the unsafe use of pesticides.

Students were also educated on the restrictions regarding the importation, sale, and use of mosquito coils in Antigua and Barbuda.

Together, through education and community engagement, we can help create a healthier and safer Antigua and Barbuda for present and future generations.

🐝 World Bee Day | 20 May 2026

Bees play a vital role in pollination, biodiversity, and food security. Protecting pollinators through responsible pesticide management and environmental awareness helps support healthy ecosystems and sustainable agriculture.

Let us continue to promote safe pesticide practices and environmental responsibility for a healthier future.

📍 Observing Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2026 🦟

In observance of Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2026, the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB), in collaboration with the Central Board of Health (CBH), continues its public education efforts across Antigua and Barbuda.

On Tuesday, 19 May 2026, the Registrar of Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals, Mr. Jonah Ormond, visited the Foundation Mixed School where he engaged Grade One students in interactive discussions on mosquito awareness, prevention, environmental responsibility, and the health risks associated with the unsafe use of pesticides.

Students were also educated on the PTCCB restrictions regarding the importation, sale, and use of mosquito coils in Antigua and Barbuda.

Through these school visits, students are encouraged to become young ambassadors who can share these important health and safety messages within their homes and communities.

Together, we can make Antigua and Barbuda healthier and safer for present and future generations.