Jamaican Economy Panel Discussion Jamaicans’ Perceptions of Sustainable Development Influence Behaviours and Support Progress Toward the SDGs

Jamaica has embraced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of its Vision 2030 framework, committing to align
national development priorities with global targets. However, policy alone is not enough. Progress depends on citizens’
understanding of sustainability and their willingness and ability to act on it in their everyday lives. Awareness, perceptions, and
behaviours all shape whether Jamaica can meet its sustainable development ambitions. This report examines how Jamaicans
perceive sustainability, how these perceptions shape daily practices, the barriers that prevent deeper engagement, and the
strategies that can bridge the gap between national policies and lived realities.