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Our Islands, Our Future Applauds Bahamas Joining Global Fossil Movement 

Freeport, Bahamas—The Bahamas has taken a bold step forward in its commitment to combat the climate crisis by joining a growing bloc of nations advocating for the negotiation of a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. This landmark decision aligns with the country’s ongoing efforts to transition to a clean energy future. It reinforces its resolve to protect its people, economy, and fragile ecosystems from the devastating impacts of climate change.

The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty seeks to end the global expansion of fossil fuels, pursuing a just and equitable phase-out of existing production and accelerating the transition to clean, renewable energy. It is a decisive step for The Bahamas, one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations. 

Our Islands, Our Future (OIOF) has steadfastly advocated for a permanent ban on oil drilling in The Bahamas, emphasizing the catastrophic risks such activities pose to the country’s marine environment and tourism-dependent economy. Recent national polling by the coalition found that 86% of Bahamians support a ban on drilling. This overwhelming public consensus underscores the importance of aligning national policies with the will of the Bahamian people. This decision to join the Fossil Fuel Treaty amplifies that advocacy and solidifies The Bahamas’ leadership role in addressing the climate crisis. 

Andurah Daxon, Executive Director of Waterkeepers Bahamas, lauded the move: “The climate crisis is a clear and present danger to The Bahamas and other small island nations. While joining this treaty is a step in the right direction, we remain resolute in our call for a permanent ban on offshore oil drilling. By prioritizing clean energy and protecting our marine ecosystems, we can secure a healthier, more sustainable future for future generations.”

The Bahamas’ decision to support the treaty highlights the growing momentum among vulnerable nations to push for global action. As a nation on the frontlines of rising sea levels, stronger hurricanes, and marine ecosystem loss, The Bahamas is taking meaningful steps to advocate for solutions that align with its commitment to climate resilience and environmental preservation. 

Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, Executive Director of The Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF), said: “By joining this global movement, The Bahamas is declaring that our future lies in sustainable energy and environmental stewardship. This is another step in the right direction, and we are proud to stand with nations around the world to say: no more fossil fuels, no more oil drilling. Our people, our biodiversity, and our economy depend on it.”

Isaiah Back-Gaal, Climate and Safe Energy Campaign Manager with Waterkeeper Alliance commended The Bahamas for its decisive action: “The Bahamas has joined a critical global effort to end the destructive cycle of fossil fuel dependence. This courageous step will inspire other nations, particularly those most vulnerable to climate crises. Together, we can ensure a just transition that safeguards communities, biodiversity, and the planet.”

The OIOF coalition remains committed to securing a permanent ban on oil drilling in Bahamian waters. As the coalition celebrates this milestone, it calls for an even broader commitment from our leaders to send the clearest message to the world: our waters are closed for oil exploration. 

Learn more about The Bahamas joining the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.