Abstract
Context:
The Jamaican government’s announcement of its intent to integrate nuclear power into the nation’s energy framework has sparked public concern and debate. Despite the country’s four-decade history with a research reactor and adherence to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards, misinformation about the safety of modern nuclear reactors remains widespread. To address these concerns and gauge public sentiment, the government has launched a public education campaign. Additionally, a survey conducted by the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica showed that a majority of its members support this nuclear initiative.
Effective community engagement is essential for bridging the gap between public opinion and the actual implementation of such a significant project. This involves not only managing the concerns of national stakeholders but also those of local communities situated near potential industrial sites. The LEAP Company has successfully navigated similar challenges in two major projects:
- Development of a Major Bamboo Pulp Mill: As the largest foreign direct investment project in western Jamaica in many years, this initiative faced substantial environmental, social, and logistical hurdles.
- Project STAR: This public-private partnership focused on deep community engagement, aligning local needs with the interests of broader stakeholders.
These projects required meticulous coordination among technology providers, engineers, construction firms, local businesses, political directorate and community groups. The proposed use of small modular reactors, which can be integrated within urban areas or existing industrial infrastructures rather than new sites, underscores the need for a nuanced approach to community integration.
This presentation outlines The LEAP Company’s strategies for effective community engagement in complex project environments. Key tactics include transparent communication, targeted educational programmes to counteract misinformation, and active inclusion of community feedback in project planning and execution. These methods not only facilitate project success but also build lasting relationships with communities, which are vital for future initiatives.
Co-authored:
Saffrey Brown, Local Development Specialist, Director of The Leap Company
Dr. Parris Lyew-Ayee, GeoMapping Specialist, Director of The Leap Company