What's Happening?
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is hiring an Oceans Data Scientist to work on strengthening the institutional and technical capacity of national statistical offices in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The role
involves producing statistics and indicators on maritime trade, focusing on imports, exports, and CO2 emissions. The consultant will guide government agencies in Barbados and Belize in setting up a statistical production system for seaborne trade and marine fishing. This initiative is part of a broader project to improve data accuracy and environmental impact assessments in maritime activities.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it addresses the need for accurate maritime trade data, which is crucial for economic planning and environmental management in Caribbean SIDS. By enhancing data collection and analysis capabilities, these countries can better understand and manage their maritime trade activities, leading to more informed policy decisions. The focus on CO2 emissions also aligns with global efforts to address climate change, as accurate data is essential for developing effective strategies to reduce environmental impacts. This project supports sustainable development goals by promoting economic resilience and environmental sustainability in vulnerable regions.
What's Next?
The Oceans Data Scientist will work remotely from August 2026 to March 2027, collaborating with national taskforces on Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emission statistics. The project aims to produce comprehensive data on maritime trade and fishing activities, which will be used to inform policy and improve environmental management. As the project progresses, it may lead to further collaborations and capacity-building initiatives in other regions, enhancing global efforts to address maritime trade challenges and environmental sustainability.











