Global leaders have approved a political declaration during a High-Level Meeting at the United Nations committing to a clear set of targets and actions on antimicrobial resistance. Leaders have pledged to reduce by 10 percent deaths from drug-resistant bacteria over the next six years. Thursday’s milestone statement, the first on the topic since 2016, also pledges to raise 100 million to fund the updating of countries’ AMR action plans and their implementation. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley acknowledged the team effort, noting it is a major achievement. She says it’s an impressive blueprint for action, telling countries the hard work starts tomorrow. Director General of the World Health Organisation, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus extended gratitude to Ms. Mottley for her leadership and elevating AMR on the global stage. He warned no country is immune from the threat of AMR.

Biogas filling stations should become a reality in Barbados in two years. The revelation came from UWI Scientist Dr. Nigel Henry, as development continues with the creation of the first renewable energy vehicle to be introduced to Barbados. He said the development has moved into its pilot stage and tells the Business Report it is a result of extensive research by scientists at the UWI Cave Hill Campus in collaboration with Rum and Sargassum Incorporated and Supernova Lab of Future Barbados. Dr. Henry says the new fuel will eventually be used for all classes of vehicles and fits in with Government’s green-friendly initiative.

A minor earthquake was recorded off Barbados last night. The 3.6 quake struck at 8:11 p.m. According to the Seismic Research Centre of the University of the West Indies, it was located 135 kilometres north-northwest of Bridgetown and 114 kilometres east-northeast of St. Lucia. It struck at a depth of 10 kilometres.