In one side, Jamaica’s overall fuel imports have been growing at an average annual rate of two percent (2%) per annum over the past twenty eight (28) years. In 2010, Jamaica’s energy mix remained dependent on the use of imported fossil/petroleum fuels with approximately 91% from oil imports and 9% from renewable energy sources.  
In another side, Jamaica’s water basins are constantly being degraded.  Landslides and slope failures are very common in the non-limestone watersheds due to the presence of steep slopes and thin or erosive soils. This situation is further compounded by heavy and high intensity rains in the upper watershed areas, soil erosion, and susceptibility to earthquakes. These natural conditions of instability are aggravated by a number of human activities. Among them is the cutting of trees for charcoal production.